THE AOA SOCIAL CIRCLE - APRIL
2026 ANNUAL CAMPAIGN
The Annual Campaign, held each year in the first quarter, is the Y’s general appeal to the Community-At-Large. Primarily to support our philanthropic work, your financial support assists the Y in responding to the ongoing requests for help we receive daily. Your Membership Dues and Program Fees go toward covering the Y’s operating expenses, but your donations for the Campaign go toward helping your neighbors stay healthy and well. Connected by a shared vision, Staff at all levels work with one another to engage committed Volunteers, YMCA Members, and Donors to make a lasting impact on the communities served by our Y.
Dear AOA Members,
March has felt like a wonderful reflection of our theme, Celebrating our American Heritage through Invitation. At the Wyckoff Y, we continue to see what happens when we truly open our doors and hearts — everyone is welcome here, and the Y becomes a true home away from home for our community.
This spirit was especially evident at our AOA St. Patrick’s Luncheon, which welcomed a record number of attendees this year. The room was filled with laughter, music, Irish Step Dancers, line dancing, an Irish Sing-A-Long and great food, and it was clear that people came not just for the event, but for the sense of belonging and connection that the AOA community provides.
The Commons has also been bustling this month. It is a lively gathering place where AOA members stop in for a cup of coffee or tea, participate in activities, or simply spend time together. Seeing friendships grow and conversations unfold in this space is a wonderful reminder of how meaningful these everyday moments of connection can be.
As we head toward spring, the weather has given us a brief taste of the season ahead — a welcome reminder that new energy and opportunities are just around the corner. There is a sense of momentum building within the department, and I’m excited about continuing to create spaces and programs that invite people in, bring them together, and strengthen the community we share at the Wyckoff Y.
Visit Us in The Commons!
The Commons is the go-to spot for AOA Members (Age 62+)—a warm and welcoming space where acquaintances become friends, and friends become family. Come by the lower level of the Y, grab a cup of coffee, tea, or water, pick up a good book, meet a friend, or join one of the many fun and engaging activities we have planned. We’d love to see you!
With Gratitude,
MaryJoan and the AOA Team
Member Spotlight: Kathy O.
If you spend time around the AOA community at the Wyckoff Y, chances are you’ve shared a laugh with Kathy. Known for her quick wit and always having a funny comment ready, Kathy brings warmth, humor, and positivity wherever she goes.
Kathy is also an avid reader and an important member of the AOA Book Club, which meets in The Commons. She enjoys thoughtful discussions about books and always brings her unique perspective—and often a little humor—to the conversation.
Family is at the center of Kathy’s life. She loves spending time with her children and cheering on her grandchildren at their sports games and activities. Her pride in her family is something she shares often with her friends at the Y.
Before enjoying this chapter of life, Kathy spent many years as a dedicated teacher, helping shape the lives of countless students in our community. Even today, former students often stop her to say hello and thank her for everything she taught them and how it helped them succeed in life. It’s a testament to the lasting impact she made in the classroom.
Kathy is also committed to staying active and healthy. With a family history of dementia, she has made it her goal to reach her step count every day. She approaches this goal with determination—and a sense of humor—often saying that if it means walking around the coffee table at home to reach her steps, she’ll do it!
At the Wyckoff YMCA, you can often find Kathy participating in an Aquatics Group Exercise Class, staying active while enjoying time with friends.
Kathy’s humor, kindness, dedication to lifelong learning, and commitment to health make her a wonderful part of the Wyckoff Y family. We’re so lucky to have her!
Floral Design Workshop - Spring Deisgns
What a beautiful evening in The Commons on March 10 as participants gathered for our Spring Floral Design Workshop! With guidance from owner, Jeannine Diamond of Wyckoff Florist, students learned the fundamentals of floral design while creating stunning fresh flower arrangements of their own.
From selecting the right blooms to learning about color balance, composition, and flower care, everyone enjoyed a hands-on experience that was both creative and relaxing. Whether participants were brand new to floral arranging or looking to sharpen their skills, the class offered helpful tips and plenty of inspiration.
By the end of the session, the room was filled with beautiful, unique bouquets—each one reflecting the creativity of its designer. Participants proudly posed with their handcrafted arrangements, ready to brighten their homes or share them as thoughtful gifts.
It was wonderful to see so much creativity in bloom!
April 16: Patriot Club Lecture
April 24: In Concert: StevieMac
April 25: Annual Campaign Spring Splash Swim Meet
April 30: Community of Lifesavers Workshop
May 4: 14th Annual Roll Call for Veterans Event
May 6: Osteoporosis & Exercise Info Session
May 7: AOA Volunteer Open House & Lunch
May 8: A Taste of Wyckoff
May 20: Patriot Club Lecture
May 29: Captain Jack: The Ultimate Billy Joel Tribute Band
June 16,17,18: AOA Summer Camp Retreat
June 18: AOA Spring Into Summer Lunch
The Rose Fernandez Commons:
Open Monday - Friday, 9am-4pm
THE COMMONS is a warm and welcoming place where acquaintances become friends and friends become family.
Included in your AOA Membership: Weekly “Commons” Activities:
Book Club, The Bull & The Bear - Stock Market Club, This Week in History - Information & Discussion, Mahjong, Intro. to Pinochle, Pinochle, Canasta, Bridge, Intro. to Bridge, Scrabble, Mexican Train, Rummikub, Ted Talks & Discussion, Chess, Million Dollar Movie, Brain Fitness.
WINTER/SPRING SCHEDULE: Effective January 7
CONNECTION EXCHANGE
We want to hear from you!
This is a NEW! avenue for you to provide feedback, compliments, concerns, thoughts, etc. to the Upper Management Team so we can provide the very best care.
No thought or suggestion is too great or too small! Upper Management will respond to your suggestions and/or comments within 48 hours.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to the Wyckoff Family YMCA!
