Category: Health and Wellness

Y-USA Awards Grant to Expand Pickleball, Renovate Racquet Sports Wing at Sinking Spring YMCA- Open House Jan. 9th

Posted on Updated on by Chrissy Faller

YMCA of Reading & Berks County Awarded Y-USA Grant to Expand Pickleball and Renovate Racquet Sports Wing at Sinking Spring YMCA

Community is invited January 9th to learn, play, and get involved.


December 22, 2025, Reading, Pa. — The YMCA of Reading & Berks County has been awarded a capital grant from YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) to support the expansion and improvement of its pickleball program at the Sinking Spring YMCA in response to a growing community demand. The investment will allow the Y to create a dedicated racquet sports wing through the addition of a hybrid court comprised of one tennis court and four pickleball courts.

Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in the country as interest continues to rise locally as does tennis. 

At the Sinking Spring YMCA, court time and programs are consistently full, with players of all ages seeking more opportunities to play, learn, and connect. Expanding capacity will help reduce wait times, support additional leagues and events, and create more access for new and returning players.

“This expansion will be a game-changer for accommodating our avid, competitive pickleball players and newcomers learning or improving their game,” said Jesse Whiteman, branch executive director for Sinking Spring YMCA, Sinking Spring, Pa. “It also gives us the launchpad for making additional capital improvements we need.”

Building Renovations to Enhance the Y Experience

Sinking Spring YMCA will move the speed and agility training area, which is currently located where an additional “hybrid” court will be built. The hybrid court will be outfitted with a tennis court and four pickleball courts.

Planned improvements will focus on increasing the number of playable courts and upgrading court spaces to improve play, accessibility and overall experience. The expansion will benefit both pickleball and tennis participants and allow the Y to better serve a wide range of skill levels, from beginners to experienced players.

Upon completion, the Sinking Spring Y will have a total of four tennis courts and 10 pickleball courts designed to provide a professional-level environment for both sports. The equipment upgrades and improvements planned for all existing and new courts include:

  • Adding an additional tennis court which doubles as four pickleball courts.
  • New sturdy, portable nets for the pickleball courts.
  • New curtains and new benches for all courts.

As part of the grant agreement, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County will launch a fundraising effort to match the Y-USA investment and to improve the facility. Additional details about the campaign will be shared in the coming months as planning continues and renovation costs are finalized.

Open House & Racquet Sports Membership Night: Friday January 9, 2026

To celebrate the growing racquet sports community and invite the public to get involved, the YMCA will host an Open House & Racquet Sports Membership Night on Friday, January 9 from 5- 9 p.m. at the Sinking Spring YMCA. “Our open house is a perfect chance for people to try something new, meet our team, and see what’s coming for racquet sports at the Y,” said Whiteman.

The Member Night is open to anyone interested in learning to play pickleball and for junior tennis players ages 11-18 interested in improving their skills. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet staff, connect with other players, enjoy light refreshments, and take part in open play pickleball and tennis throughout the evening. Information about racquet sports programs for the second half of the season, running January through March, will be available, and discounted registrations will be offered during the event.

More information about the Y’s Open House Racquet Sports Member Night and its programs can be found at ymcarbc.org/racquet-sports.

“Pickleball is bringing people together across generations,” said Phillip Borup, president and CEO, YMCA of Reading & Berks County. “This grant from Y‑USA will let us grow that connection—more courts and better amenities mean more opportunities for families, seniors, youth and everyone in between to be active, social and healthy.” This expansion is another step toward creating inclusive spaces that support physical activity, social connection, and lifelong wellness.

About the YMCA of Reading & Berks County

For 167 years, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County has strengthened our local community through putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice with programs that builds healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The YMCA of Reading & Berks County operates five branches in Adamstown, Mifflin, Reading, Sinking Spring and Tri Valley; two Early Learning Centers in Reading and Richmond; and seven transitional housing programs for residential care at the Reading Y and Camp Joy locations.

The Y is a nonprofit committed to strengthening the community and empowering individuals 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 strives to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment, and demonstrate the importance of connections among 2,700 Ys in 10,000 communities across the United States. 

From 1857 to Today: Honoring 167 Years of the YMCA of Reading & Berks County

Posted on Updated on by Amber Fox

Celebrating 167 Years of Impact: The Reading YMCA Legacy Lives On 

Happy Birthday to us! On June 22, 1857, the Reading YMCA opened its doors with one mission: to strengthen our community through a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Today, 167 years later, we’re still at it, and stronger than ever. 

A man and child walking into the Reading YMCA in the early 1900s.

Reading YMCA early 1900s

From our humble beginnings in a borrowed meeting room to now operating five vibrant branches and two early learning centers in Berks County, the YMCA of Reading and Berks County has become a cornerstone of community support, wellness, youth development, and social responsibility. 

 To thank you, our members, staff, and supporters, we’re throwing a weeklong celebration for Membership Appreciation Week, June 17–22!  You’ve helped shape this legacy, and now we want to celebrate YOU. 

A Rich History of Service and Strength 

Since 1857, the Reading YMCA has weathered wars, economic shifts, and social changes, but our commitment has never wavered. From early literacy programs and boarding rooms for young men in the 1800s, to launching job readiness programs and summer camps in the 1900s, to providing critical childcare, housing, and fitness services today, we’ve adapted to meet the community’s needs every step of the way. Each generation brings new energy and passion, but our mission stays the same: building a stronger, healthier community, together. 

“The Y has always been more than a gym; it’s a home. A safe place. A community of people who lift each other up.”

- YMCA Member, Reading Branch
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The Reading YMCA created a USO 1943

Then, Now, Always: What the YMCA Offers Today 

The Y you know today is packed with programs and opportunities for all ages and abilities. Whether you’re chasing a new fitness goal, searching for affordable childcare, looking for youth sports, or wanting to volunteer, there’s a place for you here. 

Man at the Reading YMCA Welcome Center Desk 1879-1895

Reading YMCA Welcome Center Desk 1879-1895

Here’s just a snapshot of what your YMCA offers: 

  • State-of-the-art fitness centers 
  • Preschool & early learning programs 
  • Before & after school care  
  • Swim lessons & water safety 
  • Summer day camps & playground programs 
  • Housing programs 
  • Tennis and pickleball courts 
  • Supportive community events and wellness workshops 

We are proud to serve over 40,000 people every year in Berks County. Each one of you is part of our legacy. 

Growing Into the Future: Our Next Chapter Starts With You 

Our story isn’t just about the past, it’s about where we’re headed next. As we prepare for the future, we’re committed to: 

  • Expanding affordable access to all families 
  • Strengthening youth mentorship programs 
  • Enhancing our facilities and equipment 
  • Growing partnerships with local businesses and donors 
  • Supporting community wellness and mental health 

Every time you show up, whether to work out, volunteer, donate, or enroll your child in a program, you are shaping our story. You are helping us carry 167 years of impact forward. 

Be a Part of Our Legacy 

If you haven’t stopped by in a while, now’s the perfect time. Visit us during Membership Appreciation Week, take a tour, and discover how the YMCA continues to be a pillar of wellness, inclusion, and opportunity in Berks County and beyond. 

Whether you’re a longtime member or brand new, you belong at the Y, because the Y belongs to this community. 

Thank you,  

To our founding members, our current families, and every volunteer, donor, and staff member who’s walked through our doors, thank you. This birthday isn’t just about looking back, it’s about celebrating what we’ve built together, and what we’ll keep building for generations to come. 

The Olympic-size indoor Pool opened in 1971. At the time, it was the largest Y pool in the US.

Happy 167th, Reading YMCA. Here’s to the next hundred and beyond! 

Learn more and find your nearest branch
Find your Y and donate today

Deviled Eggs Got a Glow-Up — Meet the Avocado-Filled Upgrade Your Snack-Game Needs

Posted on Updated on by Amber Fox

You know those moments when your kids ask for a snack 17 seconds after you cleaned the kitchen? These avocado-filled eggs are your new secret weapon. Packed with protein, healthy fats, and a little spicy sass, they’re like deviled eggs — but better, classier, and less likely to stain your couch. Plus, our in-house nutritionist Shawn Borup, aka the Y food whisperer, ensured they’re as nourishing as they are snack-worthy.

Avocado deviled eggs topped with chives and cayenne on a white plate, Healthy avocado-filled eggs with Greek yogurt and jalapeños, YMCA high-protein snack idea with avocado and eggs

Ingredients:

  • 6 hard-boiled eggs
  • 1 cup avocado, diced
  • 1 tbsp plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • ¼–½ tsp Himalayan salt
  • Cayenne pepper to taste
  • ¼ tbsp black pepper
  • 1–2 tbsp finely chopped jalapeños
  • 1 tbsp green onion
  • Chopped chives (for garnish)

For an extra fresh bite (and bonus mom points), Shawn recommends using organic eggs and avocados when possible — your taste buds and your body will thank you.

Directions:

  1. Cut the eggs in half and pop those yolks into a bowl with the avocado.

  2. Mash until smooth (or until your arm workout feels complete).

  3. Stir in yogurt, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.

  4. Add jalapeños and green onion — feel free to adjust heat depending on whether you’re feeding tiny humans or spice lovers.

  5. Spoon into egg whites. Garnish with chives and a little cayenne if you’re feelin’ fancy.

Pro Tips:

  • Fresh local eggs are where it’s at. You could grab a generic dozen at the store, but why not get to know your local farmer and live your best farm-to-fridge life? Plus, your brunch will taste smugly superior.

  • Swap mayo for plain Greek yogurt. It’s creamy, tangy, and doesn’t come with a side of “What’s even in this?” vibes. Bonus points: protein boost, and you can still call it deviled without summoning the food guilt demons.

  • Smash ’em on toast. Avocado toast just got an upgrade, honey. Or skip the bread, throw one of these bad boys next to a green smoothie, and pretend you’re the kind of person who meal preps on Sundays instead of just crying in the Aldi parking lot.

  • Great for meal prepping snacks, perfect for that after-school snack! Your kids may not even notice it’s healthy (your secret’s safe with us)

DIY Nutella

Posted on Updated on by Amber Fox

(That Won’t Make Your Kids Bounce Off the Walls)

As Seen on WFMZ-TV69 on Saturday Sunrise 

Let’s be honest — store-bought Nutella is delicious, but have you seen that sugar content? One spoonful and suddenly your toddler thinks they’re starring in Fast & Furious: Living Room Drift. Enter this dreamy, creamy, dietitian-approved version from YMCA nutritional wizard Shawn Borup. It’s sweetened with dates (nature’s candy), made with hazelnuts (hello healthy fats), and totally customizable with cocoa or carob powder. Spoiler: you’ll be eating it straight off the spoon after bedtime. No judgment.

Homemade Nutella fruit dip with apples on a wooden tray, Healthy chocolate hazelnut spread next to sliced apples, YMCA nutritious homemade Nutella with dates and hazelnuts

Ingredients:

  • ¾–1 cup hazelnuts

  • 1 cup filtered water

  • 2 cups Medjool dates

  • ¼ cup carob powder or cocoa powder

  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Shawn suggests going organic with your ingredients when you can — especially those dates and hazelnuts — because better ingredients = better spread (and less mystery in your pantry).

Truth Bombs About the Sweet Stuff (aka why Homemade Nutella is the hero we need):

  • Heads up: Cacao powder is strong stuff. Use a little less than you would with cocoa or carob.

  • Nutella says it’s a “hazelnut spread with cocoa.” Sugar is the first ingredient and not the picture of health. It’s 55% sugar. 

  • Oh and P.S.? Sugar + refined palm oil = a not-so-dreamy duo with known carcinogenic properties. Big yikes.

  • Eating sugar lights up your brain like a Christmas tree. It activates natural opioids — basically, your brain throws a party and forgets to send the eviction notice. Some studies say it can be addictive. (No wonder you can’t stop at one spoonful.)

  • And just for fun: Sugar also messes with your mood, your metabolism, and your waistline. It’s the frenemy of food — sweet on the surface, chaos underneath.

  • Dates to the rescue! Unlike refined sugar, dates bring fiber to the party — helping you feel full and slowing down the sugar spike. They’re nature’s way of saying, “I got you.”

Directions:

  1. Soak dates in warm water for 30 minutes.

  2. While that’s happening, blend the hazelnuts and filtered water in a blender to soften them up.

  3. Drain and pit the dates, then toss ’em in the blender.

  4. Blend for about a minute, or until it looks like creamy dessert magic.

  5. Transfer to a bowl, stir in the vanilla and carob/cocoa powder, and try not to eat it all in one sitting.

How to Use It:

  • As a fruit dip (make apples exciting again!)

  • Swirled into yogurt or oatmeal

  • In smoothie bowls

  • Or straight-up on a slice of whole-grain toast