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At the Ridgewood Y, our mission has always been to strengthen the foundations of our community by promoting healthy living, fostering social responsibility, and nurturing the potential of every individual who walks through our doors.

Organized in partnership with Welcoming America, Welcoming Week epitomizes these values by encouraging our community to embrace newcomers and ensuring that everyone—regardless of where they come from—feels they belong.

At the Y, we witness daily how programs that bring people from different backgrounds together lead to greater understanding and mutual respect. Whether it’s through connecting in a group exercise class or simply sharing stories in our lobby, these interactions break down barriers and build lasting connections.

Welcoming Week sets the tone for how we interact with each other every day by fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong. This sense of belonging is crucial for the well-being and success of all community members. Research shows that feeling welcomed and experiencing social connectedness is directly linked to better health outcomes, higher educational achievements, and more robust economic participation.

As we celebrate Welcoming Week, let’s remember that our strength lies in our diversity. By embracing our immigrant neighbors, we not only uphold the values of the Y but also build a more resilient, innovative, and compassionate community. Welcoming our new neighbors is not just an act of kindness; it is an investment in the future of our community. At the Y, we are proud to lead this charge, ensuring that Bergen County remains a place where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to thrive.