We believe our community is stronger when everyone feels welcome and we work together for the common good. Celebrated annually at the YMCA, Welcoming Week is a chance for neighbors—both immigrants and U.S. born residents—to get to know one another and celebrate what unites us as a community.

From September 10 - September 19, 2021 all branches of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine will celebrate Welcoming Week 2021. Ongoing activities are planned such as:

• Music from a variety of countries will be played during some group exercise classes.
• In many of our Childcare and Early Learning Centers, as well as our Before and After School care programs, students will enjoy special crafts, activities and foods from around the world. 
• Special displays showing where YMCA members are from and sharing why are members and staff are "welcomers".

In addition, branches will have special events throughout the week including:

Lionville Community YMCA

• Firefighter Meet & Greet
• Diversity, Inclusion and Global Speakers
• Free chair massages
• Coffee Tasting and Flights with Twin Valley Coffee

Upper Main Line YMCA

• Pickleball with International Coffee & Snacks from 10:00 AM - 12:00PM in the Cafe
• Games Around the World: Monday, September 13 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM 
• Family Flag Making: Tuesday, September 14 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Swim Lesson Leveling: Wednesday, September 15 from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
• Family Fun in the Owl's Nest: Wednesday, September 15 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
• Animals Around the World: Thursday, September 16 from 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM

West Chester Area YMCA

• Traditions Table on Monday, September 13 and Tuesday, September 14 (specific times TBA)
• Origami Crafts on Tuesday, September 14
• Love Your Body Day on Wednesday, September 15
• The Human Library on Friday, September 17 from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM
• Magic Rock Garden on the morning of Friday, September 17 and on Saturday, September 18 between 9 AM - 12 PM