JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (April 16, 2026) – The First Coast YMCA is proud to announce a new community partnership with the Jacksonville Waves in celebration of Healthy Kids Day®, taking place Saturday, April 18. This exciting collaboration will bring professional athletes, family-friendly activities, and interactive wellness experiences to local YMCA branches, reinforcing a shared commitment to youth development and healthy living.
For more than 30 years, Healthy Kids Day® has been the YMCA’s national initiative dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children and families. This free annual event inspires kids to stay active, physically and mentally, throughout the summer months and beyond.
This year, the First Coast YMCA is elevating the experience through its partnership with the Jacksonville Waves, including appearances from league leadership and team representatives at select locations across the region.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Jacksonville Waves to bring even more energy and inspiration to Healthy Kids Day,” said Candace Burrows, Vice President of Programs, FCYMCA. “This collaboration connects kids and families with positive role models while reinforcing the importance of staying active, building confidence and having fun together.”
Families attending Healthy Kids Day will have the opportunity to meet leaders from the Jacksonville Waves from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the following YMCA locations:
- Brown Family YMCA – 170 Landrum Road, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Featuring: Donna Orender, Commissioner & Co-Founder, UPSHOT League & CEO, Gen W - Williams Family YMCA – 10415 San Jose Blvd., Jacksonville, FL 32257
Featuring: Taj McWilliams, Vice President of Basketball Operations, UPSHOT League - Brooks Family YMCA – 10423 Centurion Parkway North, Jacksonville, FL 32256
Featuring: Jessica Bogia, Head Coach, Jacksonville Waves
Attendees can expect meet-and-greets, autograph opportunities, and engaging activities designed to inspire youth through sports and teamwork.
“Partnering with the First Coast YMCA for Healthy Kids Day allows us to connect directly with families and highlight the importance of getting out and getting active,” said Donna Orender, Commissioner & Co-Founder of UPSHOT League. “We’re excited to inspire the next generation through movement, mentorship and community engagement with this partnership.”
Healthy Kids Day® is a free, annual event hosted by YMCAs nationwide to encourage kids and families to stay active and engaged during the summer. Activities often include games, sports, educational programming and hands-on experiences that promote overall wellness.
Healthy Kids Day will take place at each First Coast YMCA branch with individual programming scheduled. The event will take place Saturday, April 18 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and is free and open to the community.
For more information and to find a participating location near you, visit here.
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About the First Coast Y
For nearly 120 years, the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast has been providing men, women and children of all ages, and from all walks of life, opportunities to build stronger bonds, live healthy and become more engaged with their communities. Learn more: fcymca.org.
MEDIA CONTACT
Natalie Caballero, Dalton
ncaballero@daltonagency.com
