HILLSBOROUGH: Free YMCA memberships offered to 7th graders

   The Somerset Valley YMCA is inviting all seventh graders to become free members with access to all three branches.
   The Y sees it as part of its mission to teach healthy lifestyle habits to youth at an early age.
   In 2011 in the first year of its seventh grade membership initiative, the Y provided 56 free memberships.
   ”Seventh grade is a critical time when kids are moving from parent decision-making to making their own decisions. We target this grade level because it the best time to teach them about the importance of staying active and healthy and developing habits that will stay with them into adulthood,” said Valerie Giacopelli, executive director at the Hillsborough Family YMCA.
   To sign up for the complimentary, one-year membership, students entering the seventh grade need to visit a Somerset Valley Y branch in Bridgewater, Hillsborough or Somerville with a parent and show proof of grade level.
   Youngsters will have access to fitness areas, three pools, open gym time, Friday night Planet Y for teens and all teen programs and classes.
   ”’”The seventh-grade membership initiative is supported through the Y’s Strong Kids campaign funded through the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations.
   ’For information on any Y youth program, visit www.ymcasomersetvalley.org.