YMCA hosting homeschoolers’ resource event on Sept. 8

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 27 August 2023 at 7:20 am

MEDINA – The Orleans County YMCA and the Medina Wild and Free Co-op have announced an inaugural Homeschoolers’ Resource Event in Medina on Sept. 8.

Recognizing the importance of supporting these families, these agencies are engaged in a collaborative effort to provide a comprehensive platform for homeschooling families to come together, learn, connect and engage with local businesses and service providers, including the YMCA, which offers tailored programs for the homeschooling community.

The event Sept. 8 will take place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the YMCA, 306 Pearl St., and promises an array of activities and opportunities, according to Alexandra Gilman, a board member of the YMCA.

These include:

Networking – Connect with fellow homeschooling families, local businesses and service providers to establish a strong support network.
Meet and Greet – Engage with experienced homeschoolers, educators and professionals to gain insights and advice on successful homeschooling practices.
Co-op Setup – Explore cooperative learning opportunities and discover how to join or establish homeschooling co-operatives in the community.
Curriculum Resources – Access a wide range of educational resources, curricula and teaching materials to enhance your homeschooling journey.
Local Community Programs – Learn about local programs initiatives and resources available to homeschooling families in the Orleans County area.
YMCA Homeschooling Program – Discover the specialized homeschooling programs offered by the YMCA and other local organizations.

Noori Bibi, a dedicated homeschooling mother, educator and YMCA board member., emphasized the significance of this event.

“Homeschooling is a wonderful and challenging journey,” Bibi said. “As a parent and educator, you need support and networks around you to enrich that journey for both parents and children. We’ve organized this event to bring homeschooling families together with local businesses and co-ops, fostering an environment of mutual learning and growth. Together we can ensure that the homeschooling community thrives in Orleans County.”

Whether someone is a seasoned homeschooler or considering it for the first time, this event welcomes all, Gilman said.

“It’s an opportunity to engage directly with the homeschooling community, voice your needs and contribute to the collective growth of homeschooling in the region,” she added.

Local businesses and service providers are also encouraged to participate. For anyone offering homeschooling programs or providing resources to support homeschooling families, this event offers a platform to showcase their offerings. To register as a vendor or participant, contact the Medina Homeschool Event team at medinahomeschoolevent@gmail.com. Registration deadline is Sept. 3.

Childcare services will be available during the event, provided by certified YMCA staff, although availability is limited.

Registration begins at 5 p.m. Vendors are asked to arrive 30 minutes early to be ready for the 5:30 p.m. start time. Cost is $5 per vendor/participant.