by YMCA of Reading & Berks County
On April 27, 2024, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County and Berks Parks & Recreation are partnering to host Healthy Kids Day®, previously called Family Fun Day, at Berks County Heritage Center, 1102 Red Bridge Road, Reading, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Free and open to the public, this community event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families, and a healthy start to the summer season. Healthy Kids Day’s mission is to turn fun and play into lifelong memories. Some featured activities include inflatables, a kite building station and kite flying, games, and activities. “It is so important for kids to stay active over the summer, both physically and mentally,” said President and CEO Phillp Borup, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County.
5K, Kids Color Fun Run
In addition to free family activities, kids and adults alike can register for a 5K race and a 1-mile kids color run for ages 12 and under. The 5K costs $15/student runner (18 years old and under) and $30/adult runner. The Y is registering participants on its Healthy Kids Day program page at ymcarbc.org, which also lists information on the day, race, and awards. Those who register by April 5 will also receive a race T-shirt. Race registration begins at 8 a.m., the 5K run/walk starts at 9 a.m., which will be followed by the awards ceremony at 10:30 a.m. At 11 a.m., the color fun run will begin for ages 12 and under.
“By participating in the 5K, you contribute to a cause that ensures every individual has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow, and thrive,” said Borup. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Y’s Open Door Scholarship Funds, which helps kids and families benefit from the Y’s programs and memberships regardless of their ability to pay.
Calling on Vendors: Free Opportunity
Local businesses are invited to set up a table and activities to showcase its offerings, engage with Berks families, and contribute to the festive atmosphere of the day for free. Participation is free, but registration is required to become a vendor on the healthy kids page at ymcarbc.org.
“Whether you want to get out and enjoy the outdoors in spring weather, or running or walking a 5K is more your speed, there is something for everyone,” said Lisa Gauker, Recreation and Special Events Supervisor, Berks County Parks & Recreation. “The day is about encouraging families to take advantage of all the great summer activities our county has to offer and keeping kids engaged.”
For more information or to register for the event, please visit www.ymcarbc.org or contact Alec Heckman at 610-944-6515 or [email protected].
For 165 years, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County has been a cornerstone in the community, putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Driven by its founding mission, the Y is a nonprofit committed to strengthening the community and empowering individuals by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow, and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the Y’s goal is to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment, and demonstrate the importance of connections among 2,700 Ys in 10,000 communities across the United States. The YMCA of Reading & Berks County operates branches in Adamstown, Mifflin, Reading, Sinking Spring, and Tri Valley.
