Celebrating Healthy Kids Day: A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Community Partners

Each April, the Santa Monica Family YMCA opens its doors wide for one of our most cherished events of the year: Healthy Kids Day. This annual celebration invites families from across our community to come together for fun, connection, and vital resources—all completely free of charge.

This year’s event, held from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM in our bustling gymnasium, was made possible through the incredible support of local partners. We’re especially grateful to Kiwanis Club of Santa Monica, our presenting sponsor, for helping us create a day full of joyful activity and meaningful impact.

“Healthy Kids Day is my favorite Y event,” said Hodge Patterson, CEO of the Santa Monica Family YMCA. “We provide a safe, welcoming space for kids to just be kids—and my own family always looks forward to being part of it.”

A Day of Fun and Resources

From the moment doors opened, families experienced a full spectrum of exciting activities, hosted by our amazing YMCA program departments. Kids bounced with joy in our inflatable bounce houses, scaled new heights on the rock climbing wall, and got creative with arts and crafts and sports games that energized their bodies and imaginations.

Beyond fun and games, Healthy Kids Day also served as a hub for vital community resources—particularly for those affected by the recent fires. Dozens of local vendors showed up with compassion and care, offering:

• Free haircuts
• Warm jackets
• Books and Chromebooks for families in need                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  
  
  

We were honored to have essential civic partners in attendance, including the Santa Monica Police Department, Santa Monica Fire Department, and the Santa Monica Public Library, all of whom brought interactive experiences and valuable information to our families.

Looking Ahead

The spirit of Healthy Kids Day reflects our YMCA’s commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We are proud to offer this free event every year and are already looking forward to growing the celebration in April 2026.

Thank you to all who participated, supported, and celebrated with us. Together, we’re building a stronger, healthier Santa Monica—one family at a time.