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.
2026 Series Overview
February: Mix & Meet
Mix & Meet is a guided social experience with built-in structure, clear conversation prompts and a facilitator to lead the way. You will not be expected to work the room or figure things out on your own. The format is designed so everyone can participate, even if social situations often feel uncomfortable.
This is not a dating event. It is about meeting people, making friends, and supporting mental wellness through meaningful connection. A few examples of conversation prompts participants might choose from include things such as:
- If you could have a superpower, what would it be and how would you use it?
- You’re leaving tomorrow and money is no option—where are you going?
- What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
No pressure. No awkward guessing. Just connection!
Snacks and beverages included.
Date: Tuesday, Feb. 10
Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
- Facilitated socializing event, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
- Unstructured social time, 6:30 to 7 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
March: Cultivating Happiness
Explore what happiness means and discover ways to cultivate joy in everyday life.
April : Together We Stitch
An all-ages community art project centered on connection, creativity and expression.
May: Mental Health Awareness
Learn more about mental health, stigma reduction, and supportive practices we can all use.
June through August: We break for summer!
The series pauses for summer. See you in September…or better yet, see you at Walk It Off!
September: Suicide Prevention
Focus on understanding risk, care practices and how to support people in crisis.
October: Anti-bullying
Addressing the impact of bullying on mental health and how we can foster safe, respectful environments for both youth and adults.
November: Rocking Kindness
A creative community art project where painting kindness rocks becomes a way to express care, spread encouragement and nurture well-being.
December: Compassion Fatigue
A workshop for anyone who cares for others, focused on giving sustainably while caring for themselves too.
Getting to Know Our Y Community — Share Your Skills and Expertise
We’d love to partner with YMCA members who have skills, lived experience or expertise to share as guest presenters, workshop leaders, or collaborators for future Promoting CommUNITY programming. Is that you? Let us know by completing this short survey!
Looking Back: 2025 Promoting CommUNITY Topics
The following topics were included in our 2025 programming:
- February: Understanding Racial Equity
- March: Gender Equity and Empowerment
- April: Disability Awareness & Advocacy
- May: Ageism and Age Discrimination Awareness
- September: The History & Experience of Refugees and Immigrants in America
- October: LGBTQIA+ Inclusion
- November: Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Inclusion
