The YMCA on Granby, a branch of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, recently held a community baby shower in celebration of Black Maternal Health Week, which occurred on the week of April 11. In partnership with Urban Baby Beginnings, a local non-profit providing support to expecting parents and post-partum families, the event brought together community members for education, connection and support.
Attendees received gifts and could enter to win more supplies like diapers to support their families. Along with these necessities, the event was also a time for parents to learn about local resources and vendors. Providing support with both necessary items and valuable connections prepared them to become great parents.
“Visitors were able to gain valuable resources and information about parenting, early childhood development and community support services,” said Ed Khawly, the division vice president at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads and executive director at the Y on Granby. “The event was not only about showering parents-to-be with gifts and essentials. It also connects community members with resources and empowers them to seek those resources out when needed.”
Goals for the Event
The event’s outcome aligns well with the YMCA’s greater mission, especially under its new strategic plan: “Vision 2030 — Connecting Communities. Empowering Youth. Inspiring Hope.” The community baby shower is also just one program out of many the YMCA on Graby hosts to promote community among multiple groups.
Khawly emphasized how working with Urban Baby Beginnings and other entities dedicated to supporting expecting families made the event possible and impactful. Having the Y, local organizations and community members come together for the community baby shower also strengthened its mission of community development.
“A top lesson learned from hosting the event is the power of collaboration and community engagement,” said Khawly. “By working together with local organizations, businesses and volunteers, the impact in our communities is amplified and the sense of belonging is strengthened. My advice to other community rec leaders would be to leverage partnerships and involve the community in event planning and execution to maximize success and reach.
While the material resources and education were a big part of the event, Khawly explained how the connections created are what truly will strengthen the community. Seeing relationships form through discussions and working toward a common goal was another big takeaway.
“The shower embodies the Y’s goal of being a catalyst for connection and unity,” said Khawly. “The baby shower brings together families from diverse backgrounds to share in the joy of welcoming a new life into the world. Beyond the tangible items received, participants left with a sense of belonging and a network of support to lean on as they navigate the journey of parenthood. Seeing the community come together to contribute time, resources and support was the highlight of the event.”
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