dig into your passion, or explore something new
Events may take place at the Ridgewood Y or off-site. Participation is open to all members and non-members unless otherwise noted, however, Ridgewood Y members receive free or discounted registration, depending on the event.
FEBRUARY 2025
Caretakers Support Group for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Monday, February 3
6:00-8:00PM
FREE
Topic: Dialing up Joy While Caring for Others
Our Caretaker Support Group is meant to provide a welcoming and safe environment for caretakers of individuals with neurodegenerative diseases to share experiences and feelings. Participants may also learn coping skills, stress management methods, and self-care techniques so that they can continue to provide crucial, quality care for those in need.
Caretaker Support Group meets on the first Monday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
Parkinson's Speaker Series: Making Things Easier for People with Parkinson's and Their Loved Ones
Monday, February 10
11:30AM-2:30PM
FREE
Join us for an informative session on how to make life easier for people with Parkinson’s, their families, and caregivers. Experts from Caring People Group, Senior Care, Elder Law, Jiffy Junk, 101 Mobility, and Flourish Chiropractic & Wellness will share insights on home care, legal planning, mobility solutions, and more.
SPEAKERS + TOPICS
- Camille Munro – Home Care Consultant, Caring People
“What Types of Care You Can Have in Your Home” - Julie Hattersley – Regional Director, Caring People Home Care Management
“Long-Term Care Insurance and Veterans Benefits” - Ellen Koehler, MSW, LCSW – Director of Psychotherapy, Caring People
“Behavioral Health for Families” - Tiffany Ewell, CGCM, CDP – Caring People Care Management
“Care Management and Support Resources” - David Stamberg – Certified Senior Advisor, Dementia Practitioner, Senior Care Authority
“Assisted Living Options and Navigating the Process” - Elder Care Attorney (TBA)
“The Importance of Legal Documents for Future Planning” - Ryan Goldberg – Jiffy Junk NJ/NY
“How Decluttering Can Help During Life Transitions” - Corrin McCarthy – 101 Mobility
“Mobility and Accessibility Solutions for Better Living” - Victoria Petruzzella Ciroalo, DC – Owner, Flourish Chiropractic & Wellness
“Chiropractic Care for Parkinson’s: Supporting Nervous System Health for Improved Mobility and Quality of Life”
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from experts and explore valuable resources to support you and your loved ones!
Light refreshments offered by Caring People Group, Flourish Chiropractic Wellness, and Supernus Pharmaceuticals.
NEW!
Menopause Support Group
Wednesday, February 12
12:00-1:00PM
FREE
Topic: Signs and Symptoms
Our Menopause Support Group offers a welcoming and safe space for individuals navigating the challenges of menopause to share experiences, feelings, and insights. Participants can explore coping strategies, stress management methods, and self-care techniques to support their physical and emotional well-being during this transitional phase.
Menopause Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
SPECIAL EVENT!
BYOB Palentine's Day Charcuterie Board Class
Thursday, February 13
7:00-8:30PM
Members $85 | Non-members $85
Ridgewood local and former producer of The Rachael Ray Show, Jeanette Donnarumma, is taking over the Ridgewood Y kitchen for a delightful Palentine’s Day event!
Sip, chat, and let your creativity flow as you craft a stunning and delicious charcuterie board to take home and savor.
This event is BYOB: Bring Your Own Bestie—and a bottle of wine!
Jeanette Donnarumma is an Emmy award-winning television producer, formerly of the Rachael Ray Show. She is a digital media producer, food writer, content creator, creative food display enthusiast, snackologist, recipe developer, mom of 2, and small business owner.
MAKE THOSE VALENTINE'S DAY PLANS!
Parents Night Out: Jurassic Adventure
Friday, February 14
7:00-10:00PM
Members $20 | Non-members $35
Ages 5-12
Take some time away while the kids play! For over 13 years, the Ridgewood Y’s Parents Night Out program has offered an affordable and trustworthy option so caregivers can spend an evening out while knowing their kids are in good hands—and having a good time! While the adults get some quality time out on the town, children are having a blast under the watchful eye of our trained staff participating in themed evenings that include movies, crafts, games, and more. Now the whole family can have a night out to remember!
Youth Programming Open House
Saturday, February 15
10:00AM-12:00PM
FREE
Now’s the perfect time to learn about all the youth programs offered at the Ridgewood Y. Whether you’re interested in summer camp, teen fitness, or anything in between, our open house has all the information you need. Find out where your child’s journey begins!
No need to register, just show up!
Additional 2025 dates:
Sunday, March 23 | 1:00-2:30PM
Saturday, April 5 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Saturday, May 3 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Thursday, June 5 | 5:00-7:00PM
School Vacation Camp
Monday, February 17
8:00AM-6:00PM
Members $70 | Non-members $90
Ages 4-12
When school is out, the Y is in!
The Ridgewood Y’s School Vacation Camp provides a fun, reliable, and affordable childcare option when schools are on break. With days full of crafts, games, swimming, and themed activities, children are treated to a little taste of summer camp fun—leaving you to focus on the day ahead knowing the kids are in good hands.
Valley Health Wellness Series: Planning for Your Golden Years
Monday, February 17
2:00-3:00PM
FREE
The idea of retirement is an exciting yet sometimes daunting prospect. Join us as we hear from William O’Doherty, a seasoned financial consultant from Thrivent Financial, about the many helpful steps you can take to financially plan for your golden years!
Registration for this event should be done on the Valley Health website.
MARCH 2025
Caretakers Support Group for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Monday, March 3
6:00-8:00PM
FREE
Topic: Finding Your Purpose
Our Caretaker Support Group is meant to provide a welcoming and safe environment for caretakers of individuals with neurodegenerative diseases to share experiences and feelings. Participants may also learn coping skills, stress management methods, and self-care techniques so that they can continue to provide crucial, quality care for those in need.
Caretaker Support Group meets on the first Monday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
Parkinson's Speaker Series: Neurological Expert Insights on Quality of Life, Medications, + Therapy
Monday, March 10
11:30AM-2:30PM
FREE
Join us for an insightful event featuring leading experts from Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute of Paramus in neurology, geriatrics, pain management, and therapy. They will discuss strategies to improve quality of life for those living with Parkinson’s disease. Gain valuable knowledge on medication management, chronic pain, movement therapy, and speech and swallowing challenges.
SPEAKERS + TOPICS
- Dr. Umer Akbar, MD – Professor, Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine; Director, Division of Movement Disorders, Hackensack University Medical Center
“2 Tips to Improve Quality of Life After Parkinson’s” - Dr. Owen Deland, MD – Assistant Professor, Department of Geriatrics, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine
“Frailty and Management of Medications in the Setting of Parkinson’s Disease” - Dr. Jacob Hascalovici, MD, PhD – Associate Professor, Department of Neurology, Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine; Director, Pain Management, Department of Neurology, Hackensack University Medical Center
“An Introduction to Chronic Pain: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers” - Christopher Pontus, DPT, PT & Lorraine Yap, MA, CCC-SLP
“LSVT BIG and LOUD: An Overview of Speech, Language, and Swallowing Deficits in Parkinson’s Disease”
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from area specialists and explore practical solutions for living well with Parkinson’s!
Sponsored by the Hackensack Meridian Neuroscience Institute of Paramus. Light refreshments will be provided.
Menopause Support Group
Wednesday, March 12
12:00-1:00PM
FREE
Topic: Exercise
Our Menopause Support Group offers a welcoming and safe space for individuals navigating the challenges of menopause to share experiences, feelings, and insights. Participants can explore coping strategies, stress management methods, and self-care techniques to support their physical and emotional well-being during this transitional phase.
Menopause Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
Parents Night Out: Space Explorers
Friday, March 14
7:00-10:00PM
Members $20 | Non-members $35
Ages 5-12
Take some time away while the kids play! For over 13 years, the Ridgewood Y’s Parents Night Out program has offered an affordable and trustworthy option so caregivers can spend an evening out while knowing their kids are in good hands—and having a good time! While the adults get some quality time out on the town, children are having a blast under the watchful eye of our trained staff participating in themed evenings that include movies, crafts, games, and more. Now the whole family can have a night out to remember!
School Vacation Camp
Monday, March 17
8:00AM-6:00PM
Members $70 | Non-members $90
Ages 4-12
When school is out, the Y is in!
The Ridgewood Y’s School Vacation Camp provides a fun, reliable, and affordable childcare option when schools are on break. With days full of crafts, games, swimming, and themed activities, children are treated to a little taste of summer camp fun—leaving you to focus on the day ahead knowing the kids are in good hands.
Youth Programming Open House
Sunday, March 23
1:00PM-2:30PM
FREE
Now’s the perfect time to learn about all the youth programs offered at the Ridgewood Y. Whether you’re interested in summer camp, teen fitness, or anything in between, our open house has all the information you need. Find out where your child’s journey begins!
No need to register, just show up!
Additional 2025 dates:
Saturday, April 5 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Saturday, May 3 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Thursday, June 5 | 5:00-7:00PM
Parkinson's Speaker Series: Abbvie VYALEV Levodopa Therapy
Monday, March 24
11:30AM-1:45PM
FREE
Join us for an informative presentation by Colleen McRory, Immunology Specialist and Account Executive at AbbVie New Jersey. Learn why Levodopa pills may not work as effectively over time and discover VYALEV, a new treatment option. This session will cover how VYALEV works, show a live pump demonstration, discuss patient experiences, and provide resources for learning more. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into innovative Parkinson’s treatment options!
APRIL 2025
Parents Night Out: Safari Adventure
Friday, April 4
7:00-10:00PM
Members $20 | Non-members $35
Ages 5-12
Take some time away while the kids play! For over 13 years, the Ridgewood Y’s Parents Night Out program has offered an affordable and trustworthy option so caregivers can spend an evening out while knowing their kids are in good hands—and having a good time! While the adults get some quality time out on the town, children are having a blast under the watchful eye of our trained staff participating in themed evenings that include movies, crafts, games, and more. Now the whole family can have a night out to remember!
Youth Programming Open House
Saturday, April 5
10:00AM-12:00PM
FREE
Now’s the perfect time to learn about all the youth programs offered at the Ridgewood Y. Whether you’re interested in summer camp, teen fitness, or anything in between, our open house has all the information you need. Find out where your child’s journey begins!
No need to register, just show up!
Additional 2025 dates:
Saturday, May 3 | 10:00AM-12:00PM
Thursday, June 5 | 5:00-7:00PM
SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER—OPEN TO ALL!
Caretakers Support Group for Neurodegenerative Diseases
Monday, April 7
6:00-8:00PM
FREE
Guest Speaker Scott Saumsiegle—From Tragedy to Triumph; Building Self-Trust
Join us for an inspiring evening with Scott Saumsiegle as he shares his unforgettable story of resilience, perseverance, and the power of community. Scott Saumsiegle, ACADIA Pharmaceuticals NY/NJ representative and motivational speaker, talks about his journey from tragedy to triumph—offering insight and inspiration to live with mindfulness and purpose.
Caretaker Support Group meets on the first Monday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
Menopause Support Group
Wednesday, April 9
12:00-1:00PM
FREE
Topic: Nutrition
Our Menopause Support Group offers a welcoming and safe space for individuals navigating the challenges of menopause to share experiences, feelings, and insights. Participants can explore coping strategies, stress management methods, and self-care techniques to support their physical and emotional well-being during this transitional phase.
Menopause Support Group meets on the first Wednesday of each month, and is open to members and non-members.
YMCA Camp Bernie Summer Camp Open House
Sunday, April 13
2:00-4:00PM
FREE
Discover your new home away from home! Join us at our summer camp open house, where future campers and their families can experience a taste of overnight camp life. Take a hike through our nature trails, watch your kids try out archery, and cheer them on as they conquer the climbing tower. You’ll meet our enthusiastic staff, ready to answer any questions and share all the ways our camp helps kids grow, explore, and make lasting memories. Spots fill up fast, so start planning now to make this summer one your family will never forget!
School Vacation Camp
Monday-Friday, April 14-18
8:00AM-6:00PM
Members $70 | Non-members $90
Ages 4-12
When school is out, the Y is in!
The Ridgewood Y’s School Vacation Camp provides a fun, reliable, and affordable childcare option when schools are on break. With days full of crafts, games, swimming, and themed activities, children are treated to a little taste of summer camp fun—leaving you to focus on the day ahead knowing the kids are in good hands.
SPECIAL EVENT!
HEALTHY KIDS DAY
Saturday, April 26
Time TBD
Healthy Kids Day® is the Y’s national initiatve to improve the health and well-being for kids and families. Join us for a fun-filled day of activities celebrating healthy kids, strong families, and thriving communities!
No need to register, just show up!
Parkinson's Speaker Series: What is Rehabilitation for Parkinson's?
Monday, April 28
11:30AM-1:00PM
FREE
Join Dr. Jonathan Bryan Tiu, Director of Neuro Rehabilitation at Hackensack Meridian Medical Group / Hackensack University Medical Center, for an insightful discussion on neurological rehabilitation. Learn about the latest advancements in treatment, strategies for improving mobility and quality of life, and resources available for individuals living with neurological conditions. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain expert knowledge and support!
Valley Health Wellness Series: Where Should You Go?
Wednesday, April 30
7:00-8:00PM
FREE
Are you Emergency Department sick, urgent care sick, or safe to stay home sick? Sometimes, it’s hard to tell! Learn from emergent medicine doctor, Dr. Masood Ranginwala, MD, about where to go when we aren’t feeling our best and how to best take care of ourselves.
Registration for this event should be done on the Valley Health website.
MAY 2025
TRAINING BEGINS NOW!
Y TRI: INDOOR TRIATHLON
Saturday, May 3
First wave begins at 8:00AM
See webpage for registration details
Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete, or looking to toe the line for the very first time, our indoor sprint triathlon is a great addition to your race calendar. With individual and relay options along with multiple age groups, there’s a race for everyone! Make it a family day with a family relay team and kid’s races too!