Social Distancing Does Not Have to Mean Social Isolation

Staying Strong and Connected with the Ocean County YMCA

The Ocean County YMCA in Toms River addresses health concerns by offering virtual

programming and #StayingWithUs initiative.

TOMS RIVER, NJ – The Ocean County YMCA in Toms River, which is now

celebrating its 50th Anniversary, addresses COVID-19 health concerns by

offering virtual programming and new #StayingWithUs initiative.

“At the Y, we are committed to ensuring social distancing does not become social

isolation,” said Peter Rosario, President and CEO of the Ocean County YMCA.

“During these unprecedented times, we have created virtual content through

Zoom, YouTube and Facebook Live to continue engaging with members and

promote healthy living. You can also update your Facebook profile image with

our new profile frame to let everyone know that you’re #StayingWithUs.”

The Ocean County YMCA has also increased phone outreach initiatives to

protect the wellbeing of its most vulnerable members. “By continuing to promote

healthy living and social connectedness, we are impacting the future by ensuring

continued positive outcomes for preventing things such as senior isolation,” said

Rosario.

Carol, a member of the Ocean County YMCA, recently said, “You have no idea

what it means to us that we can still see each other’s faces. We need to thank

you so much for thinking and caring for all of us in this creative way.”

The Ocean County YMCA is offering virtual classes such as yoga, fitness

classes, story time and book/crochet club. Those interested can take part in the

Ocean County YMCA’s virtual programming by visiting ocymca.org or the Ocean

County YMCA’s Facebook page (@OCYMCA). “We would like to extend our

gratitude to the Grunin Foundation for providing us with access to Zoom

accounts so that we are able to offer virtual programming to the community,” said

Rosario.

The Ocean County YMCA is also creating specific content to promote physical

activity, and S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math)

projects among youth at a time when they too are lacking their normal

educational structure, physical activity and social supports. “Developing activities

and exercise for children and families to share is changing outcomes and

creating new ways to educate and promote fitness at home,” said Michael P.

Ritacco, Board of Directors Chair of the Ocean County YMCA.

The Ocean County YMCA is continuing its ongoing partnership with Fulfill

(formerly the Food Bank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties), and the YMCA staff

is packaging and distributing meals to those experiencing food insecurity. “The

number of requests for Crisis Relief Boxes have doubled in one week,” Ritacco

said. “This allows the YMCA to provide a safety net for its community’s most

vulnerable populations.”

Looking to the future, the Ocean County YMCA will continue to work to advance

its cause and strengthen the community through youth development, healthy

living and social responsibility. “The Y is committed to bringing strength to our

community in good times and bad,” said Rosario. “Together, we are stronger!”

The Ocean County YMCA is located at 1088 West Whitty Road in Toms River.

For more information, call JoAnn at 732-847-2071 or email

jkermick@ocymca.org.

About the Ocean County YMCA

At the Y, we take immense pride in our work to strengthen communities and help

build a stronger us. We provide a place to play, learn, be healthy and give back.

We believe that everyone, regardless of who they are or where they are from,

deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential. Everything the Y does is

driven by our commitment to creating opportunities for communities thrive. The

Ocean County YMCA in Toms River features the following onsite amenities:

6,800 sq. ft. functional wellness arena, cardiovascular center, 12 lane competitive

size pool, adult and family locker rooms, and child watch room.

To learn more, visit ocymca.org.