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YMCA of Central Stark County

To put Christian Principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

LEARNING IN THE MOMENTS

“Every morning starts a new page in your story. Make it a great one today.”  - Doe Zantamata

It started like any other summer day at the Eric Snow Y, youth playing basketball in the gym, some playing ping-pong and others waiting patiently to swim. With the summer heat just starting sometimes temperaments flare, and that’s what started to happen that day. Two young men started to argue, a Y staff walked over to diffuse the situation.  He spent time listening to what each boy had to say and then talked to them about respecting each other and what that means.

After meeting with them the youth were sent on their way home, as is customary after a dispute at the Y.

As the boys were heading out one of the boys walked over to the other. Based on the prior altercation the concerned staff began to head outside to make sure everything was ok. And what happened next made us all smile. The one boy extended his hand out to the other boy and they shook hands putting to rest the past and making peace with the present.

This summer the Eric Snow Y with a community block grant from the City of Canton is providing over 180 Safe Summer Programs to youth in Canton. The program includes a free summer membership, summer food program lunch and activities daily. Our goal is to provide a safe and fun place for youth to spend the summer, a place where character counts.

At the Y, we are here to help write your story so it’s a great one!