Riverbrook Regional YMCA reflects on successful summer season

The Riverbrook Regional YMCA closed its summer seasonal programming with some of the highest operating numbers they’ve seen in recent years.  Offering summer camp options in Norwalk and Wilton, most weeks sold out within the first few weeks of registration in October 2020.

“After a unique year of remote, hybrid, and in-person learning, many families were eager to provide their children with summer activities focused on skill-building and social interactions,” said Camp Gordyland Director Mike Kazlauskas.  “We were fortunate to have a solid team of support staff, CITs, and volunteers who equally focused on delivering a safe and fun environment.” 

The Wilton Family YMCA campus sits on 22 acres and offers swim lessons, ropes courses, climbing walls, archery, fishing, and various sports programs. In addition to Camp Gordyland, the campus also provides programming support for Norwalk YMCA Summer programming.  Camp Sunrise, a Norwalk YMCA program operating at St Jerome Church, attended weekly trips to the Wilton branch.  Race4Chase, a partnership with the Norwalk Housing Authority, trained for their Annual Triathlon Race with swimming, cycling, and running support from the Y’s Wellness staff 

“For our team, getting the kids away from electronics and focusing on moving was such a win this summer,” said Lizzie Kalish, Childcare and Family Services Manager.  “We’ve already started talking about next year’s goals, with the hope of expanding our offerings with more excursions that encourage kids to unplug and enjoy the outdoors.”

The camps also welcomed local elected officials this summer, showing them the safety protocols in place and thank them for their support of 14 million dollars in funding for summer camps across Connecticut. 

Registration for the Summer 2022 season will begin this Fall and Winter season. For more information on both locations, visit wiltonymca.org or norwalkymca.org.