Silver Bay YMCA reaffirms commitment to community youth development

SILVER BAY | At its most recent board meeting, Silver Bay YMCA's Board of Trustees reaffirmed its steadfast commitment to youth development in the communities it serves, highlighting the significant milestone of launching and operating the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center (TCELC) in 2024. Operated by Silver Bay YMCA, the TCELC opened in summer 2024 through a strategic partnership with the Ticonderoga Revitalization Alliance (TRA). The center was created in direct response to a critical community need — the shortage of accessible, high-quality early learning options, which had become a significant obstacle to workforce recruitment and retention in the Ticonderoga area. Silver Bay YMCA was honored to be selected as the operator of the TCELC, entering the partnership with the agreement that operational costs would be covered, allowing the organization to focus on providing the highest level of care and education. Today, the center serves 29 children, ranging in age from 6 weeks to 5 years, and employs 10 dedicated full-time staff members. "The addition of the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center aligns perfectly with Silver Bay YMCA's mission to foster youth development across every stage of life," said Peter Doliber, CEO. "We're proud to support families with quality early learning, and we're committed to making childcare affordable for all. We assist families with subsidy applications and offer a sliding scale fee structure and scholarships. We're deeply grateful to our community and Board for their ongoing support." As the center continues to grow, Silver Bay is especially thankful for the generosity of the community and donors who have contributed scholarships for families in need, as well as operational support. The Board of Trustees has also provided scholarship funding, reinforcing its long-standing commitment to accessible and inclusive youth programming. To further engage the local community, Silver Bay YMCA is hosting a series of open houses at the Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center this summer. Community members, families seeking childcare, local businesses, and supporters are warmly invited to attend. These events offer a chance to tour the facility, meet staff, and learn more about enrollment, partnerships, and how the TCELC supports working families. Open houses are scheduled for: Friday, Aug. 1, from 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday, Aug, 24, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday, Aug, 29, from 4 to 6 p.m. Additionally, recognizing the importance of addressing food insecurity — a challenge that affects many rural communities — the TCELC ensures that all children receive nutritious meals onsite through a structured meal program. This vital service not only supports child health and development but also alleviates stress for working families who may be navigating limited access to healthy food options. Including this offering strengthens the center's comprehensive support for the well-being of both children and families and positions the center to seek additional funding aligned with health and nutrition goals. The Ticonderoga Community Early Learning Center joins a rich portfolio of youth-focused initiatives at Silver Bay YMCA, including: The beloved Silver Camp, which provides enriching summer experiences for children and teens. In 2024, more than 700 children attended the camp program, made possible in part through scholarships provided by generous donors committed to making summer enrichment opportunities accessible to all families. The Teen Center, a free, safe, and engaging space for youth located in the Town of Ticonderoga. Open throughout the school year, the center offers programming, mentorship, and a welcoming environment for local teens. Collectively, these initiatives highlight Silver Bay YMCA's strong commitment to nurturing the potential of young people and supporting their well-being throughout the communities it proudly serves. For more information about the TCELC or to support the TCELC Operational Fund or Scholarships, please visit silverbay.org/tcelc or contact Jackie Palandrani, Education Director, atjpalandrani@silverbay.org.

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Silver Bay YMCA reaffirms commitment to community youth development

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