Annual Resource Fair Connects Families to Essential Services, Community Partners, and YMCA Programs
As summer came to a close, families gathered at the Hale Family YMCA for the South Shore YMCA’s annual Popsicles to Pencils Back-to-School Resource Fair, a free community event designed to help children and families begin the school year prepared, supported, and confident.
Held at the Hale Family YMCA in Quincy, Popsicles to Pencils brought together local organizations, healthcare providers, community agencies, and YMCA staff for a morning focused on connecting families with valuable resources and opportunities. Open to all members of the community, the event served as a welcoming one-stop destination where families could access information, participate in activities, and discover services that support children both inside and outside the classroom.
Throughout the event, families visited booths hosted by community partners offering information and resources related to vision care, dental health, child and family services, and car seat safety. Representatives from local organizations were available to answer questions, provide guidance, and connect families with programs designed to support healthy development and academic success.
In addition to community resources, children enjoyed a variety of hands-on activities led by South Shore YMCA staff and instructors. Families explored gymnastics activities, tested their skills during turf sports challenges, learned about swim evaluations and aquatic programming, participated in interactive games, and created artwork in arts and crafts stations. The event showcased the many ways the YMCA helps children build confidence, stay active, and develop lifelong healthy habits.
One of the day’s highlights was a collaborative mural project with professional artist Roscoe Lamontagne of the Quincy Art Association. Children and families helped create a large-scale community artwork, inspiring creativity, self-expression, and connection while celebrating the potential of every child.
“Popsicles to Pencils represents what the YMCA is all about,” said Melanie Riether, Community Outreach Director for the South Shore YMCA. “By bringing families, community partners, and local resources together in one place, we’re helping children start the school year with confidence and ensuring that families know they have a network of support behind them.”
The event reflected the YMCA’s commitment to nurturing the whole child through programs and experiences that promote healthy living, confidence, connection, and belonging. Whether families came for school readiness resources, health information, recreational activities, or simply a fun day together, they left with new connections and a stronger sense of community.
Events like Popsicles to Pencils are made possible through the generosity of our community partners, volunteers, and local organizations who share a commitment to helping children and families thrive. Their support helps connect families with valuable resources, opportunities, and experiences that set children up for success. Thank you to everyone who participated, volunteered, and partnered with us to make this event such a meaningful day for our community. We are grateful for your support and partnership.
As students across the South Shore return to classrooms this fall, the South Shore YMCA remains committed to supporting youth and families through programs that foster growth, learning, wellness, and connection all year long.
Together, we can help every child begin the school year with confidence.
