LAKELAND HILLS FAM NEWSLAKELANDHILLSYMCA.COMSPRING FORWARDSPRINGFORWARDNEWSCelebrating Women’s History Month and ourincredible female personal trainersMember stories, spring programs, andwellness inspirationHome of Juventus Academy NJ and whythere’s no better time to start soccer with theWorld Cup coming to our regionSummer camp Q&A with Linn Berry andspecialty camp highlightsIntroducing Reset60, your path to buildingconsistency and achieving your goalsExplore the final pages for many of ourupcoming events
A Season of GrowthSpring is a time of renewal, energy, and fresh beginnings. At Lakeland HillsFamily YMCA, this season reminds us how powerful community can bewhen we move forward together.In this Spring edition of our newsletter, we celebrate Women’s HistoryMonth by highlighting the incredible women who lead and inspire ourfitness community every day. You’ll also read meaningful stories ofconnection and growth, explore new ways to stay active, and learn aboutexciting opportunities across our programs.As the World Cup approaches and excitement around soccer continues tobuild, we are proud to be the home of Juventus Academy NJ, offering aclear and structured pathway for young soccer athletes right here in ourcommunity. There has never been a better time to get involved.We’re also excited to introduce Reset60, a new program designed to helpyou build consistency, create lasting habits, and move forward withconfidence toward your fitness goals.You’ll also find a spotlight on our Summer Camp program, including aconversation with Camp & Youth Program Director Linn Berry and a closerlook at the specialty camp options that are making this one of our mostexciting camp seasons yet.Be sure to explore the final pages of this newsletter, where you’ll find manyof our upcoming events, programs, and ways to stay connected this spring.Thank you for being part of Lakeland Hills Family YMCA.WELSPRMES
One of those challenges belonged to Jane.Her husband, Louis, is living with Parkinson’s. Over time,his condition made it increasingly difficult for him toleave the house, and he did not want to be alone. Thatmeant Jane carried the responsibility of always beingthere.At the same time, Jane knew she needed something forherself. She began attending the wellness coachinggroup, but it wasn’t easy. Walking into that roommeant leaving behind someone who depended on her,and with that came a heavy sense of guilt.At home, her son did not fully understand what she wasgoing through. Instead of offering the support sheneeded, he would come by expecting her to take careof them, too. Jane felt bad telling them how difficultthings had become, even though she desperatelyneeded help.Mary Ellen Zung is ashining example of therelationships andbelonging that makeLakeland Hills FamilyYMCA so special.More Than a ClassHow One Conversation Changed Everything(Real names have been kept out for prThat is exactly what has hap morning wellness coaching g Zung.What began as a small group wellbeing has grown into som where people feel safe enou heard, and support one anot challenges.The Weight Jane Was CarryingThrough the wellness coaching group, somethingbegan to shift.In that space, Jane was able to open up about what shewas experiencing. She talked about the stress, theresponsibility, and the feeling that she had to carryeverything on her own.The group didn’t just listen. They helped her workthrough it.With their support, Jane found not only the courage,but the words to tell her son what she needed. Andwhen she did, everything changed. Her son finallyunderstood, and stepped in to help with Mario in wayshe hadn’t before.Finding the WordsA Connection That Changedthe Day-to-DayAt the same time, another connection wasforming.Sherrie, another member of the group, heardJane’s story and brought it home with her. Shespoke with her husband, Cliff, and shared howdifficult things had been for Jane and Mario.Cliff reached out, and when the two men met,they connected immediately.Now, weeks later, they spend time together,talking, laughing, and enjoying each other’scompany. What started as a simple introductionbecame a meaningful friendship.What Community Really MeansWith her son now supporting her and her husbandbuilding a connection of his own, Jane’s entireoutlook shifted. The guilt she once felt abouttaking time for herself began to fade. She was nolonger carrying everything alone, and because ofthe support surrounding her, she was better ableto be present in her own life.This is what makes the wellness coaching group sopowerful. It is not just about routines or goals. It isabout creating a space where people can talkopenly, work through life’s challenges, and feelsupported in ways that help them move forwardwith greater strength and clarity.At Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, people come formany reasons. What they often find is connection,understanding, and support. And sometimes, thatkind of community changes everything.Pictured: Sherrie and Cliff Cole
3 WorkoutMistakesSlowingYourProgress
3 Workout Mistakes Slowing Your ProgressYou’re showing up. You’re putting in thetime. But if you’re not seeing the results youexpected, it might not be about workingharder - it might be about working smarter.Here are three common workout mistakesthat can quietly hold you back, and what todo instead.Doing the SameWorkout Every TimeIt’s easy to fall into a routine.You find something you like, andyou stick with it.The problem is, your body adaptsquickly. If your workouts neverchange, your progress won’t either.What to do instead: Mix it up.Prioritizing IntensityOver TechniquePushing harder isn’t always better.Poor form can limit your results andincrease your risk of injury.You might feel like you’re doingmore, but if the movement isn’tright, you’re not getting the fullbenefit.What to do instead:Slow down.Focus on proper form andcontrolled movement.Ask a trainer for guidance whenneeded.Better technique leads to betterresults.The Bottom LineSkipping RecoveryRest days aren’t a setback, they’repart of the process.If you’re constantly pushing withoutgiving your body time to recover,you can stall progress, feel fatigued,and increase your risk of burnout.What to do instead:Build recovery into your routine.Stretch, hydrate, and prioritizesleep.Give your body time to rebuildand get stronger.Recovery is where progressactually happens.Consistency matters,but how you trainmatters just as much.Small adjustments inyour routine can leadto meaningful resultsover time. If you’re notsure where to start,connect with one ofour trainers.Sometimes, a fewsimple changes canmake all thedifference.
WOMENWHO MOVE OUR Y FORWARDH O N O R I N G S T R E N G T H ,L E A D E R S H I P , A N D I M P A C TIn honor of Women’s History Month, we are proud to celebrate the incrediblewomen who help lead and inspire our fitness community every day. Their knowledge,encouragement, and passion empower members to build strength, confidence, andlifelong wellness.Women’s History Month began as a local celebration in the United States in the late1970s and was officially recognized nationwide in 1987. It serves as a time to honorthe contributions, achievements, and lasting impact of women across all areas of life,including the meaningful work happening right here in our community.At Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, our female personal trainers are at the heart of thatimpact. They do more than guide workouts; they motivate, support, and helpmembers discover what they are capable of, both physically and mentally. Theycreate welcoming spaces where members can grow stronger, build confidence, andtake meaningful steps toward their goals.That same guidance and encouragement are also reflected in Reset60, our new 60-day program designed to help participants build consistency, create healthier habits,and move forward with purpose toward their fitness goals. Programs like Reset60are a reflection of the kind of leadership these women bring to our Y every day,meeting people where they are, helping them take the next step, and remindingthem that progress is possible.If you’re interested in working with one of our personal trainers or learning moreabout how to get started, we encourage you to connect with our team:Kelly Najar at [email protected] Butterfield at [email protected]
Experience: 10+ YearsFocus: Adults and older adultsDenise brings a laid-back and encouraging style to hersessions, focusing on maintaining strength andsupporting everyday movement and independence.Her approach is supportive and realistic, helping clientsfeel comfortable and successful.Outside of the Y, Denise enjoys skiing, golf, quilting,sewing, reading, and traveling.What she loves most:Connecting with people and building meaningfulrelationships.EMILY O'HALLONASM CPTExperience: 1 YearFocus: Building movement into everyday lifeLauren’s training style is thoughtful and progressive. Shestarts small, focusing on foundational movement, thengradually builds toward more challenging exercises.Her goal is to help clients feel capable and confident in theirbodies.Outside of the Y, Lauren enjoys traveling with her husbandand two children, visiting museums, cooking, going to theJersey Shore, and spending time at the movies.What she loves most:Meeting new people and helping them discover whatthey’re capable of.LAUREN JARGEACE CERTIFIED Experience: 2 YearsFocus: Endurance athletesEmily brings an encouraging and energetic presence toher training, often using music to create a motivatingand engaging experience.She is passionate about helping athletes buildendurance while staying connected to their goals.Outside of the Y, Emily enjoys spending time with herfamily.What she loves most:Building long-term relationships and being part ofsomeone’s growth journey.DENISE CRISTENASM
Experience: 18 YearsFocus: All populationsChristy creates an encouraging and challengingenvironment while keeping sessions approachable andsupportive. She often works out alongside her clients, evenletting them choose the music to keep things fun andengaging.Outside of the Y, Christy enjoys preparing fresh, nutritiousmeals, practicing yoga and mobility work, walking,spending time with her dogs, and listening to music.What she loves most:Helping people grow and being their biggest cheerleaderalong the wayCHRISTY STALENASM CPT(IMAGE NOT AVAILABLE)Barbara is an Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA) certif iedinstructor for 30 years and personal trainer for 27 years and ACE certif ied for16 years. Barb is certif ied with Michael Olajide for Boxing, Club Reebok andJanis Saffell for Kickboxing and has Phase One and Phase Two Certif icationswith AFAA in Mat Pilates and Yoga. Barb was a CEC provider with Fierce 4Kickboxing and presented at f itness conferences for many years prior to Covidshutdown. A short list of continuing education includes over 100 hours of TRX,3 Nutrition certif ications: Assisted Stretching, Cancer Exercise Specialist andPWR for Parkinson’s. She enjoys teaching a wide variety of classes includingCardio Kickboxing, Aerobics, Step, Pilates, Yoga and Resistance Training. Shehas been certif ied in and teaches Les Mills Body Pump and Fit Core Reformer.Her personal-training clients include a Division 1 f ield hockey player, f igureskaters, and a rugby team. She attended the University of New York at Buffalo,where she minored in dance and performed in many local community theatreproductions, including West Side Story and the Music Man.BARB KANE
stronger.healthier. yourmoment toriseREAL PROGRESSYOU CAN FEELWHY RESET60 ISTHE RESET SOMANY HAVE BEENWAITING FOROver time, something starts toshift.Energy improves. Routinesbecome easier to maintain.Confidence begins to build.It’s not just about lookingstronger, it’s about feelingstronger, in ways that carry intoeveryday life.Participants don’t just completethe program. They walk awaywith something they can sustain.For many people, the hardest part of afitness journey isn’t getting started, it’sknowing what to do next.You show up. You try different routines.You put in the effort. But somewherealong the way, it starts to feel likeyou’re spinning your wheels, doing a lotwithout seeing the results you werehoping for. That’s exactly whereReset60 comes in.Reset60 isn’t built on quick fixes orunrealistic expectations. It’s built onsomething much more powerful,consistency, structure, and support.Reset60 is designed to delivermeaningful results withoutovercomplicating the process. Itbrings together training,guidance, and accountability intoone structured experience,making it one of the mosteffective and accessible ways toreset your routine.It’s a program that gives youreal value. Real support. Andreal results.All in one place.A SMARTINVESTMENT INYOURSELFFOR DETAILS CLICK ONQR CODE OR VISIT OURWEBSITEStart Date: April 15Duration: 60 DaysCost: $99 for membeNon-members welcom
Over the past few years,we’ve seen incredible growthin our summer campprogram. What started asone core camp has nowexpanded into three distinctlocations, each offeringsomething unique for ourfamilies.At the center of it all is ourmain camp here at LakelandHills Family YMCA, whichcontinues to be the heart ofour program. In addition,we’ve expanded to include anew location at Lake ValhallaClub in Montville and we’reexcited to continue ourpartnership at RockawayRiver Country Club, nowentering its third year.Each location offers a slightlydifferent experience, butthey all share the same goal:creating a fun, safe, andmeaningful summer forevery child.A CONVERSATION WITH LINN BERRY,CAMP & YOUTH PROGRAM DIRECTORQ: Summer camp hasgrown so much at the Y.Can you tell us how ithas evolved?1Q: What makes the maincamp at the YMCA sospecial?Our main camp is reallywhere everything comestogether. It’s the mostestablished program wehave, and it offers a wellrounded experience thatincludes swimming, outdoorplay, group activities, andopportunities for kids tobuild friendships andconfidence.It’s also incredibly accessiblefor families, and we’vedesigned it to meet a widerange of ages and interests.For many families, this iswhere their camp journeybegins, and often where itcontinues year after year.Q: What3’s new this yearthat families should beexcited about?One of the biggest changesthis year is the introductionof one-week sessions. Thisgives families much moreflexibility to build a summerschedule that works forthem.Whether someone wants totry camp for the first time,attend for a few weeks, orstay for the full summer, theynow have the ability tocustomize their experiencein a way that fits their needs.We’re really excited aboutthis because it opens thedoor for more families toparticipate.Q: How4do thedifferent camplocations enhancethe overallexperience?Each location bringssomething unique.Our YMCA camp offersthat traditional, wellrounded experience.Lake Valhallaintroduces a beautifuloutdoor setting thatfeels different andexciting. AndRockaway RiverCountry Clubcontinues to provide afantastic environmentthat families havereally come to loveover the past fewyears.Having multiplelocations allows us tooffer more varietywhile still maintainingthe same quality andsense of community 5 across all camps.Q: Can you tell us about the specialty camps and add-ons?Absolutely. This is another area where we’ve really expanded.We now offer a variety of specialty camps and add-ons that allowkids to explore specific interests and try something new. Theseinclude:SUMMER STARTS HEREThese programs give campers the chance to dive deeper into activitiesthey’re passionate about while still being part of the larger camp experience.MORE ON SPECIALTY CAMPS NEXT PAGEJuventus Soccer CampBasketball Camp with Triple Threat AAUSailing CampSTEM Academy with Little Ivy AcademyDance AcademyTravel Sports ProgramsEsports CampStop Motion Animation
At the end of the day, we want every child tofeel like they belong. We want them to try newthings, build confidence, make friends, andcreate memories they’ll carry with them longafter summer ends.Camp is about more than just activities: it’sabout growth, connection, and discoveringwhat you’re capable of in a supportiveenvironment.I would say this is one of the most excitingyears we’ve ever had. With the flexibility ofweekly sessions, multiple locations, andexpanded specialty programs, there really issomething for everyone.If you’re thinking about camp, this is theperfect time to explore what we offer and findthe experience that’s right for your child.Eprg tes udg kEEXXPPLLOORRIINNGGIINNTTEERREESSTTssBBuuiillddiinnggsskkiillllssEXPLORINGINTERESTsBuildingskillsSpecialtyCCaammppss TThhaattTTaakkee SSuummmmeerrFFuurrtthheerrSpecialtyCamps ThatTake SummerFurtherQ: What do you hope every child takesaway from their summer at the Y?6Q: For families considering camp, what wouldyou say to them?Elevating Athletic ExperiencesFor campers who love sports or want to build their skills,we’ve partnered with some incredible organizations tobring a higher level of training and instruction:Juventus Soccer Camp – A globally recognizedtraining experience rooted in one of the mostrespected soccer programs in the worldBasketball Camp with Triple Threat AAU – High-levelcoaching and skill development from one of thelargest AAU organizations in the areaTravel Sports Programs – Designed for athleteslooking to stay competitive and continue developingover the summerThese programs provide structured, engagingenvironments where campers can grow their confidence,improve their abilities, and experience teamwork at a newlevel.Creative and Academic ExplorationNot every camper is looking for competition—some arelooking to create, explore, and learn. Our specialtyofferings also include opportunities for campers toengage their curiosity and imagination:STEM Academy – Hands-on projects that encourageproblem-solving, innovation, and critical thinkingDance Academy – A space for movement, expression,and creativityStop Motion Animation - Tracy Fox brings stopmotion animation to camp, where kids create storiesand build creativity (SEE FLYER ON PAGEThese programs allow campers to discover new interestswhile building skills that extend beyond the summer.Adventure and New ExperiencesOne of the most exciting areas of growth in our summercamp program is the expansion of specialty camps andadd-on experiences. These programs are designed to givecampers the opportunity to go beyond the traditionalcamp day and dive deeper into activities they’repassionate about or discover something entirely new.Whether a child is interested in sports, creativity,technology, or adventure, there are now more ways thanever to customize their summer experience.Summer is also about trying something new, andour specialty camps provide opportunities thatmany campers may not experience elsewhere:Sailing Camp – Learning the fundamentals ofsailing while building confidence on the waterEsports Camp – A modern take on teamwork,strategy, and digital engagementThese experiences bring variety and excitement tothe camp day, giving every camper a chance to findsomething that sparks their interest.A More Personalized SummerWith the addition of these specialty camps, familiesnow have the ability to create a more personalizedcamp experience. Campers can enjoy the structureand community of traditional camp while alsoparticipating in programs that align with theirindividual interests.As our camp continues to grow, so does ourcommitment to offering opportunities that helpevery child feel engaged, challenged, and excited tocome back each day.
⚽ A Global Game MeetsaLocal PathwayThrough our partnership with Juventus Academy NJ, a subsidiary of one of the most recognized soccerorganizations in the world, we are bringing a level of training, structure, and development that is rarelyaccessible at the local level.This is not a one-time program or seasonal offering. It is a clear, intentional pathway for athletes, one thatbegins with early development and continues through more advanced training opportunities as playersgrow.As outlined in our current campaign strategy, this is not about separate programs, but a connected systemdesigned to guide players forward:Spring introduces the game and builds confidenceSummer deepens engagement through daily trainingFall expands development and identity as an athleteThis is how players grow, not just by playing, but by progressing.⚽ The World is Coming to New Jersey.With the FIFA World Cup set to take place across the United States, and matches being played right herein our region, the energy around soccer is building in a way we have never seen before.For families, it creates a unique moment.For young athletes, it creates an opportunity.And at Lakeland Hills Family YMCA, that opportunity is already here.⚽ The World’s Game. Right Hereat Home.Why There Has Never Been a Better Time to Start SoccerJUVENTUS ACADEMY NJ Professional coaching Structured development Confidence building Ages 5–17Start. Build. Advance.⚽ Starting at the Right TimeRight now, our focus is on spring outdoor training for ages 5–11,where young players are introduced to structured coaching in anenvironment designed to build both skill and confidence.This phase is intentionally designed to remove hesitation.Programs are already underway.And the goal is simple: get players on the field, learning, anddeveloping now because the earlier a child begins in the rightenvironment, the stronger their foundation becomes.Sots are limited.Spots arelimited.A Glb ae Me La PtwyNJ
⚽ MoreThan Exposure- A Sense of BelongingThe FIFA World Cup brings excitement.But development requires consistency.By integrating Juventus Academy NJ fully into the YMCA experience, families are not navigating separateprograms. They are stepping into something cohesive, trusted, and accessible.And for many children, it is the first step in discovering what they are capable of.⚽ Building Into Something BiggerWhat makes this moment different is not just the presence of the FIFA World Cup, it is the structure behindwhat comes next.Through our summer programming, families can integrate Juventus Academy NJ training directly into theirchild’s camp experience, creating a full day that blends traditional camp with professional-level coaching.This is not an add-on. It is an upgrade.It allows young athletes to train consistently, without additional travel or scheduling challenges, whileremaining part of the larger camp communityIt is where participation grows and habits begin to form.SPRING → SUMMER → FALLLearnBuildConfidenceTrain DailyCamp IntegrationConsistencyDevelop IdentityExpand SkillsPerformance⚽ The Moment is NowThe world’s game is coming here.The energy is building.The opportunity is real.There is no better time to get your child involved insoccer, not just to play, but to begin a journey of growth,development, and belonging.Because when the moment arrives, the players who areready will be the ones who started before it.This approach buildsmore than athletes.It builds confidence.It builds identity.It builds connection.
UnlockYourPotentialWith Wellness Coaching!Meetone-on-onewithwellnesscoachMaryEllenZungforguidance,support,andgoalsetting.Whetheryou'relookingforhelpwithexerciseplanning,healthyhabits,accountability,ornavigatingyourwellnessjourney, thisopen-accesstimeofferspersonalizedsupport inarelaxingandwelcomingenvironment.Drop-In Hours/N Wednesdays: 5: Fridays: 8:30 - 9 LakelandHills Family YMCA
HEALKIDS Get ready for a time for kids of all ages. family and let’s cre community for everSATURDAYAPRIL 2511:00 AM - 1:00 FREE& OPEN tothe PublicLakeland Hills Family YMCA100 Fanny RoadMountain Lakes, NJ 07046www.lakelandhillsymca.comOutdoors Only**This event will in case of rain.Airbrush TattoosCraftsDanceGaGaGamesGiveawaysMusic Shop ViolinPerformanceTeddy Bear Clinic Bfarivnog yourStriteAuffednimal!
PRESCHOOLOPEN HOUSEBring your child alo dedicated staff of te Care Directors. Expl discover our curricu what makes us uniq engage in activities tour of our facility.Saturday, May 16EARLY CHILDHOODLEARNING CENTERLAKELAND HILLSFAMILY YMCA10:00 AM - 12:00 PMAGES 2.5 - 5 Y
Led by Morris County real STEM concepts an Cybersecurity, and BioParticipants will enga rotating through vario problem-solving skills pathways, gaining ins The workshop aims to leaders in STEM fieldsG R A D 100 Fanny RoadMountain Lakes, NJ 07046973-334-2828 www.lakelandhillsymca.comLakeland Morris Co Thursday, May 21, from 6:00 - 8:00 pmActivities IncludeBiotech, Healt Protein Foldin Binary BraceleCybersecurity
www.laklandhillsymca.comSTOP MOTIONYour camper’s first step i ANIMATIONWhat They'll Experience 100 Fanny Road, Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046Registration Fee $125Batch 1 24–28 June 2025, 10 AM - 1 PM Batch 2 1–5 July 2025, 10 AM - 1 PM Batch 3 8–12 July 2025, 10 AM - 1 PM*choose from 3 exciting bat /week*Dates & Grades What’s IncludedHow stop motion animation worksHow to create animated stories using iPads,2D characters and sceneryVisual storytelling skillsCreative thinking and idea developmentTeamwork and collaborationBrainstorming, organization, andcommunication skillsCampers 3 - 7 grade:rd thWeek 2: June 29-July 3Week 6: July 27-31Week 7: August 3-7Each camper gets two 50-minute sessions/week3rd grade: T/TH afternoon4-7th grade: M/W afternoon*This program is an add-on tobe included in your camper'sregular dayLLAAKKEELLAANNDD HHIILLLLSS FFAAMMIILLYY YYMMCCAATAUGHT BY TRACY FOX/MEMORY VESSEL STUDIOAAdddd OOnn EExxppeerriieennccee ttooSSuummmmeerr CCaammpp!!Add On Experience toSummer Camp!
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