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There's a nationwide movement underway in September in the Y community to lift the importance of welcoming our immigrant neighbors!
Welcoming Week is September 13 through September 22. It helps to remind us the power of inclusion and making sure that everyone feels welcome!
The Greater Kalamazoo area is a community rich in its diverse tapestry, made up of so many people who come from all over the world! We want to celebrate this diversity and invite you to join us.
You're invited to celebrate this week through the following activities:
BOLLYWOOD DANCE PLUS!
We're piggy-backing on a fun existing class led by Instructor Denise Sonier by adding Betty Peristeridis to the experience. Together, they are going to offer an array of ethnic music including Bollywood, Romanian, Egyptian, Belly Dance, Middle Eastern, and Greek group circle dancing! No experience necessary.
Sunday, September 22, at 1:30 - 2:30pm at Maple
Registration will be available through MotionVibe or here. Non-members will be welcome, so invite a friend!
WELCOMING WEEK DESSERT RECEPTION!
FOR ALL! For members and non-members, particularly those who have immigrated or have a connection with the immigration experience, whether you are first generation, or second generation—or newly arrived in Kalamazoo County! Or you want to celebrate your heritage, or simply be a part of the welcoming spirit! This reception is an opportunity to mingle, expand our social circles, and to connect by welcoming our immigrant neighbors and celebrating our diversity.
It's a dessert reception. The Y will have desserts and light refreshments. Though not required, if you're inspired to bring a dessert that represents your heritage or the country of your origins, we will welcome it!
Sunday, September 22, 2:30pm, immediately following the dance class at Maple.
Click here to register!
ARE YOU A WELCOMER?
Fill out one of the forms availale here or pick one up at the front desk and tell us why you're a welcomer! We're posting these in our Welcome Centers (lobby area) to showcase our members' and staffs' welcoming spirit.
INTERESTED IN GROWING WELCOMING WITH MORE EVENTS, ACTIVITIES and CELEBRATIONS?
Contact Vicky Kettner here if you or your organization would like to collaborate on planning WELCOMING WEEK 2025!
