The Gateway Family YMCA has announced the availability of tours for interested parents and guardians of their recently expanded Youth Development Branch YMCA Child Development Center, located at 16-20 Jefferson Avenue in Elizabeth, NJ. The construction, which began in late 2019 is nearing full completion and includes two additional first-floor infant and preschool child care classroom spaces, a functional learning center and expanded space for youth development and community programming. Tours are available by calling Lisa Yanez, Senior Director of Child Development at 908-355-3061.
“This is an exciting time for The Gateway Family YMCA and the Elizabeth community,” stated Krystal R. Canady, CEO, The Gateway Family YMCA. “With a strong commitment to the youth we serve, our focus is on empowering the potential in all children.”
“The dedicated learning center is a unique concept which includes indoor space designed to bring the outside community into the curriculum of the Child Development Center,” stated Melynda A. Mileski, EVP/COO, The Gateway Family YMCA. Each room has a theme to provide comprehensive learning experiences from areas such as the Library, Veterinarian/Doctor Office, Healthy Market, Little Chef’s Diner/Baker, Construction Zone, Special Delivery, Community Helpers Station, Express Yourself Art Studio, Science Laboratory, Music Room, Explore Nature Room and the Imagination Zone. The learning center will allow children to experience the outside world as both an employee and a customer.
A Child Care Open House at the Youth Development Branch YMCA Child Development Center on Wednesday, May 6th from 5:00pm – 7:00pm.
“At the YMCA Child Development Center we provide care for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years in a safe, nurturing, educational and enriching environment. Our research-based curriculum is implemented in all of our classrooms and extends to the Y’s core values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility,” stated Lisa Yanez, Senior Director of Child Development, Youth Development Branch.
The Gateway Family YMCA is a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community by connecting all people to their potential, purpose and each other. With a focus on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across the local community, the Y brings together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, to ensure that all have access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive. The Y doesn’t just strengthen bodies – it strengthens people, families and communities. The Y. ™ For a better us.™
For more information about The Gateway Family YMCA, visit www.tgfymca.org or contact the Youth Development Branch YMCA at 908-355-3061.