YMCA of CENTRAL MASSACHUSETTS

Saturday, April 25, 2026 (10 am – 2 pm)
Central Community Branch YMCA • 766 Main Street, Worcester, MA

Do you have old documents piling up and want to dispose of them safely? Join Webster Five and the YMCA of Central Massachusetts for a Shred and Recycle Day! We’re working with Pellegrino Trucking to provide you with secure document destruction and disposal. Bring those old bank statements and check shredding off of your to-do list. Paper shredding is FREE. 

Need to get rid of old electronics, appliances, or bikes? The YMCA is proud to partner with Green Day Recycling. Check this list for accepted items and their cost to you: 2026 SHRED AND RECYCLE DAY PLUS FOOD DRIVE FLYER 

ALL TOWNS WELCOME! RAIN OR SHINE
HARD DRIVES DESTROYED, CASH PREFERRED, CHECKS (Over $30)

Recycling Questions? Contact: [email protected] 

NEW THIS YEAR!
Food donations are being encouraged for El Bueno Samaritano Food Program.
Please donate shelf stable, non-perishable food and canned goods.

Items most helpful for the food drive:

• Cereal
• Rice
• Cooking oil
• Beans (canned or dry)
• Soups
• Cookies/snacks
• Bottled water
• Pasta
• Tomato products (canned tomatoes, tomato sauce)
• Grocery gift cards

2026 SHRED AND RECYCLE DAY PLUS FOOD DRIVE FLYER 

Celebrating 175 Years of YMCA in America

This year marks the 175th anniversary of the YMCA in America, and the YMCA of Central Massachusetts is joining YMCAs across the country in celebrating this historic milestone. Founded in 1850, the YMCA has been a cornerstone of community service, dedicated to strengthening spirit, mind, and body for all.

The YMCA’s story in America is one of hope, service, and innovation. What began by meeting the needs of young men during London’s Industrial Revolution grew into a movement that has shaped communities across the nation. From inventing basketball and Father’s Day to pioneering ESL classes and group swim lessons, the Y has consistently responded to local needs, creating solutions that foster relationships and belonging.

Through every generation, the Y has been a place where people come together—where connections are made, friendships are formed, and individuals find a sense of belonging. Today, that mission is more important than ever. Across the country and right here in Central Massachusetts, we continue to see the effects of loneliness and isolation across all age groups. This is truly a defining issue of our time, and the Y is uniquely positioned to help build connections between people—something we have done from the beginning.

For more information and to join the celebration, visit 175.ymca.org

About the Y
Driven by its founding mission, the Y has served as a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community for more than 175 years. The Y empowers everyone, no matter who they are or where they’re from, 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 wellbeing, ignite youth empowerment, and demonstrate the importance of connections in and across 10,000 communities nationwide.

Schedule a FREE 7-Day Trial 

Yesterday, the Central Community Branch YMCA proudly opened the new Central Branch Kitchen — a space filled with purpose, learning, and heart. This kitchen will produce more than 300 meals every day, nourishing our community while also serving as a hands-on learning hub where participants can discover the joy of cooking and baking a variety of dishes.

We are deeply grateful to Chef Orlando for generously volunteering his time and talents, and to his amazing sous chef Amie, who stood right by his side to cook and serve meals with so much care. Their dedication helped make today’s launch truly special.

We had a wonderful turnout, and the energy in the room reminded us just how powerful food can be in bringing people together. We’re excited for all the nutritious meals, shared moments, and new skills that will grow from this kitchen. Here’s to community, learning, and the many good things yet to come!

From start to finish, our LIVESTRONG® at the Y Evening of Dialogue & Discovery was filled with heart, hope, and community spirit. THANK YOU to the more than 175 guests who joined us to celebrate survivorship, share knowledge, and uplift one another. What an extraordinary reminder of the power of coming together. Learn More

Join our LIVESTRONG® at the Y community for this important fundraising event. Our work with cancer survivors remains a priority and providing a wide-range of services is only possible with your continued support. This is a free community event. Learn More Here

Our President and CEO, David Connell, is being honored for his community engagement and leadership excellence.
🥳Congratulations!🎉

👉Learn more about the Honoring Black Excellence Event and purchase tickets here:
https://honoringblackexcellencetickets.eventbrite.com

🎟Tuesday (9/23/25) is the last day tickets will be available.

Honoring Black Excellence Flyer

Read the article from the Telegram and Gazette

Read the article from the Worcester Magazine