Promoting CommUNITY at the Eugene Family YMCA
Overview
Promoting CommUNITY is an inspiring educational series that invites us to explore ways to strengthen connection, compassion and belonging across our community. In 2026, we are centering our series on mental health—from understanding what contributes to mental well-being, to learning tangible ways we can support ourselves and one another. Each month we’ll focus on topics that help deepen understanding, build resilience and positively impact mental health in everyday life. Through expert insights, shared experiences, creative projects and thoughtful conversation, we’ll grow together in awareness, connection and support—because mental health is community health.
Drop-ins welcome! Join us for any session that interests you—no prior attendance required. Y membership is not required to attend; please sign up for a FREE COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP before you register for a session. For questions, contact the event coordinator, Cass Averill.
March meeting: Cultivating Happiness
Happiness is not just a feeling. It is a way of being we can learn, practice, and bring into our everyday lives.
Join YMCA member Barb Ryan, the Guidess of Happiness and founder of Spiraling Toward Joy, for an interactive session exploring the connection between happiness, mindset, and mental health. Barb's work centers on the belief that happiness is our natural state of being, and that with intention and practice, we can support emotional wellbeing, resilience and balance no matter where we're starting from.
Through guided reflection, meaningful conversation and practical tools, participants will explore ways to cultivate joy and support mental wellness in daily life. There is no pressure to be positive. Whether you are seeking more joy or simply curious about happiness as a practice, this session offers space to learn, reflect and connect.
Date: Thursday, Mar. 19
Time: 2 to 4 p.m.
Location: Eugene Family YMCA's Don Stathos Campus—600 E. 24th Ave., Eugene, OR 97405
Space: Kalapuya Community Room
Cost: FREE as always
