As 2023 comes to a close, it’s time to reflect back on the six cover stories of the past year. One major theme this year has been creative outreach strategies. Community Rec has always been an industry which strives to assist surrounding families and neighborhoods, and this year was no different. So, here is Part Two of the 2023 Cover Story Roundup that looks back at this year’s past features and their themes.
If you want to ensure you never miss a cover story, subscribe here to always stay up-to-date.
The YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties: Not Slowing Down
July/August 2023 Cover Story
Prior to 2018, the Bucks County community was comprised of three separate YMCAs: Lower, Central and Upper Bucks. Eventually, these entities all merged to form one YMCA organization across all of Bucks County.
Afterwards, the Hunterdon County YMCA in New Jersey and YMCA of Bucks County merged together to create one YMCA across the two counties, operating as YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties.
Led by Zane Moore, the Y is working on some very big ideas including capital development and renovation of the Upper Bucks facility, a whole new vision for the Hunterdon County region, and looking at underserved regions across the Y’s service area — and outside of the area — to see if there’s any other partnerships they can fulfill.
Read about the history of the YMCA of Bucks and Hunterdon Counties here.
YMCA of South Hampton Roads: Experience the Magic
September/October 2023 Cover Story
Continuously improving the employee experience is a huge point of emphasis for YMCA of South Hampton Roads. In fact, the YMCA is launching a new onboarding and training program called Y University that will enhance the way the Y creates belonging.
After researching how to elevate the Y, leaders went to Disneyland and attended two sessions through the Disney Institute on approaches to quality service and employee engagement.
This investment in the employee experience has directly influenced the launch of Y University.
Modeled after the Disney Institute, the extended orientation approach is designed to provide the newest team members the proper experiences to learn, develop and grow.
Read more about how the YMCA is improving the employee experience here.
Building Community at the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner JCC
November/December 2023 Cover Story
Led by chief executive officer Andrea Alcabes for over 18 years, the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner JCC has an extensive history that includes relocation, renovations and additions to keep up with its growing community.
Leading up to the JCC’s 20th anniversary at its current location, the JCC took on the journey to renovate its existing facility and add new amenities to the campus. The project cost an estimated $8 million.
Through all the changes and new programs at the JCC, the genuine leadership of Alcabes was cited as a consistent, constant positive force.
Read how the I.J. & Jeanné Wagner JCC leads authentically here.
