Ymca Of Greenwich Brings Back The Heat With 1960's "Back To The Beach" Themed Annual Gala

The YMCA of Greenwich kicked off the spring season with a 1960’s style “back to the beach” themed annual gala. The summer-inspired benefit was held on March 7th at the YMCA in Greenwich, CT.

More than 260 guests dressed in their best beach attire attended the annual party to raise funds for the YMCA’s youth scholarship programs. Proceeds from the event help ensure that the Y can continue to offer access to programs such as summer camp, swim lessons, and childcare to the entire community.

The evening began with cocktail hour on the deck of the Olympic sized pool, where guests were treated with aquatic entertainment. Synchronized swimmers from the New Canaan Y Aquianas provided a beautiful performance while the YMCA of Greenwich Marlins Dive Team stole the show with an awe-inspiring exhibition. Guests later enjoyed a delicious dinner courtesy of Libby Coverly Cook Catering and live auction in the historic gymnasium, which was completely transformed with summer style decor. WABC-TV’s Emmy Award Winning Meteorologist, Bill Evans served as emcee and had the room howling with laughter all night long, particularly during a party game called “Heads & Tails”, sponsored by Betteridge Jewelers. The night was capped off with dancing in the “Pavilion Nightclub”, where YMCA Turbo Sweat Instructor Brandon Mubuuke served as DJ, spinning his favorite playlists.

“It was a night full of fun and laughter,” said YMCA CEO Ed Philipp, “a great way to say thank you to those who continue to donate year after year, making it possible that our programs are available and accessible for every child in town.”

The YMCA of Greenwich has been working hard to increase its scholarship fund in recent years, culminating in approximately $418,000 of financial aid distributed in 2014 alone. These funds have enabled the organization to enhance outreach for programs such as afternoon childcare at St. Roch’s and a new initiative called “No Swimmer Left Behind”, which aims to ensure every Greenwich resident has the opportunity to learn to swim.

“One of the great things about Greenwich is that it is a waterfront town,” explained Sandy Waters, Chairman of the YMCA Board, “Unfortunately, some children never have the opportunity to learn how to swim, which can be both debilitating and dangerous and is the reason why we are launching ‘No Swimmer Left Behind’,” Waters added.

Founded more than 99 years ago in 1916, the YMCA is the largest community-based membership organization in Greenwich. Part of a well-known YMCA national network, the Greenwich Y has 5400 members. Its programs in healthy living and youth development seek to serve and to nurture the potential of everyone in our community, whether or not they have the ability to pay for its programs.

To learn more about the YMCA of Greenwich, membership and its numerous wellness programs, visit: www.greenwichymca.org.