Halloween at the Y!
Rain, wind and a fast-moving cold front couldn't dampen the spirits of 300 children with special needs, 15 sponsor groups, and dozens of volunteers who came together for our annual Halloween at the Y event at the Grand Hotel.
For more than 20 years, the Y has brought together local businesses, civic clubs, nonprofits and volunteer groups who dress up in costume and decorate the entire first floor of the hotel. They then welcome some very special children from schools throughout the district for a morning of trick or treating, face painting, dancing and fun.
Steve Kelly, retired president of the Kiwanis Club of Pensacola and a newly hired Spinning instructor at the Bear Levin Studer YMCA, was excited to participate. “Kiwanis has been a part of Halloween at the Y for about 10 years. Personally this is my fifthyear, and what keeps me coming back is it’s an uplifting experience and it’s so heartwarming, just knowing that this day is a highlight of the year for these kids," Steve said.
Representing Lakeview Center were Jessi Truett, a behavior analyst, and Thomasean Stevens, and administrative assistant. “We take the time to come out and be a part of this event because it gives us a chance to come together as a community to be here for the kids," they said.
The hallways also were filled with locally recognized characters such as Kazoo, Maverick and the Chick-fil-A cow. Although they didn't express it in words, we surmised that all three love the candy, hugs from the kids, and dancing in the ballroom to tunes from A DJ Connection.
"it’s an honor to make Halloween happen for the children."
Greg Ammon, United Way West Florida
Thanks to all our partners, donors & sponsors!
| Best Halloween Theme | Most Spirited |
|---|---|
| 1st place: Fisher Brown Bottrell | 1st place: Escambia Schools ESE Department |
| 2nd place: United Way West Florida | 2nd place: Sacred Heart Cathedral School 8th Grade |
| 3rd place: Escambia Schools ESE Department | 3rd place: Lakeview Center/Baptist Health Care |
get certified
y offers several courses
We offer training to the community for a variety of certifications on a space-available basis. Classes include:
- YMCA Lifeguard
- YMCA Swim Instructor
- Child & Babysitting Safety
- ASHI Basic Life Support, First Aid & Oxygen
- American Red Cross Lifeguard
Participants must attend the entire session of all days to earn certification. Those under age 18 must have parental consent. Fees do not include lunch; participants should bring their own lunch. For more information, contact Bonnie Steffensmeier.
Facility Rental
Bear levin studer family Y
Looking for space for a meeting or community event? We just might have the space you need. We are grateful to all the generous donors who made this Y possible. Now we are excited to share this beautiful facility with other organizations and groups who are working for the good of our community.
Our conference room, demo kitchen, multipurpose rooms and gymnasium are available to rent when we aren't using them for Y programs and classes. These areas can accommodate from 25 people to more than 100.
- Member rates are up to half off the usual community rate.
- Nonprofit organizations may have access at no charge.
- We request two weeks notice to reserve. Organizations must provide certificate of insurance.
- Rentals will be granted first come, first served as space is available.
It's Time for a Party!
Thank you for choosing the YMCA to celebrate your special day. We are excited to partner with you to host your birthday party!
The Bear Levin Studer YMCA in downtown Pensacola and the Betty J. Pullum YMCA in Navarre are available for you to invite your friends and family to enjoy your event.
Reservations can be made by members and non members. Your total party attendance cannot exceed 25. At each branch a Y team member will be on site with you to help ensure your party is successful.
We look forward to working with you!