Thank you to all those who attended our celebration party recognizing John’s 16 years of legacy as Executive Director.  YWCA Greater Newburyport welcomed over 140 people in celebration of John Feehan’s legacy as Executive Director at the Newburyport Community Senior Center, 9/24/25. John Feehan stepped down as Executive Director 8/22/25, moving to a Program Officer role and continuing to champion and focus on Affordable Housing and Childcare efforts. Board Members, past and present, staff, vendors, community partners and members lauded John’s sixteen years of service.

“Tonight we gather to honor the tireless work of John Feehan who has led the YWCA Greater Newburyport with vision, dedication and integrity for the past 16 years. Under his leadership, the organization has strengthened its programs, expanded its reach and continued to serve as a vital resource for the community.  John has consistently prioritized the mission of the YWCA ensuring that the organization not only meet the needs of those we serve today, but is also prepared for the challenges of the future“, Julia McDonald, YWCA Board of Directors Board President.

“What has been abundantly clear in the 29 days since I started at the YWCA is the legacy of John’s impact over the past 16 years.  Not one day goes by that I don’t see firsthand the depth of his relationships or witness the breadth of community he has built in this area.  It is a gift to join an organization that has had a rock-steady Executive Director at the helm – especially because I get to keep working with and learning from you.  You have left big shoes to fill”, Kate Slater, new YWCA Executive Director.

Ilene Harnch-Grady, Health and Wellness/Encore Director recognized John’s legacy through the presentation of timeline detailing some of John’s accomplishments since he began in 2009 and presented a bench with an honorary plaque recognizing John’s work.  “I have had the pleasure or working with John since he began in 2009.  As an organization we faced insurmountable challenges including an organizational overhaul, a global pandemic and a major staffing crisis.  Through it all, John remained our steward and captain forging a sense of calm and support.”

Mayor Sean Reardon and Senator Bruce Tarr also presented John with proclamations recognizing his service and impact on the community.

A very special thank you to LD Russo and Nancy Caswell from BRINE for their generous donations and sponsoring this event.

Join Us on October 4th for a Night That Makes a Difference!

We’re excited to invite you to our Fundraising Feast with Chef Sherry Pocknett of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe — and winner of the James Beard Award for Best Chef in the Northeast! This special evening is more than a meal; it’s a chance to celebrate Indigenous culture, community, and connection.

Whether you come for the food, music, learning, or simply the spirit of giving, your presence matters. By joining us, you’re helping to keep Indigenous culture alive and thriving for future generations.

🎟️ Don’t wait — reserve your seat today!
🔗 Purchase Tickets Here

Each year Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by honoring the histories, cultures, and contributions of Latinx and Hispanic Americans whose influence is woven into the fabric of our nation.

Make sure to visit the YWCA’s lobby display to learn more about the lives and contributions of notable Hispanic leaders, innovators, and changemakers who have shaped our communities and our nation.

Click Here to Learn More.

Weight Watchers Workshops now available at the YWCA Greater Newburyport on Tuesday evenings 6:00 pm.    Join our workshop – “Get to Your Goals Alongside People Who Get You” and save 60%.

Click HERE to learn more!

Kate comes to the YWCA with fifteen years of experience in the nonprofit and social impact sector, where she has focused primarily on education and social justice. She was previously the Executive Director of the Teacher Collaborative where she provided professional development and community-building services to educators across Massachusetts. Prior to that, she was a National Director at BUILD.org, a nonprofit that provides entrepreneurship education to support the economic mobility and college and career readiness of underrepresented high school students; she also worked as the Assistant Dean of Student Affairs at Brandeis University and the Associate Director and Manager of Programs at the Institute for Recruitment of Teachers (IRT).

Kate also teaches at the University of New Hampshire in Durham in the Department of Education. Kate is the co-creator of the Anti-Racist Roadmap and a frequent facilitator and consultant on equity, inclusivity, and anti-racist practices for organizations around the country. She is a member of the Amesbury School Committee, where she chairs the Curriculum and Inclusion subcommittee, and she is a founding member of the Amesbury Racial and Social Justice group (ARSJ). She also served on Amesbury’s inaugural Juneteenth Committee.

According to Julia McDonald, YWCA Board President, “Kate’s work history and background closely aligned with the Mission of the YWCA and her passion for eliminating racism and empowering women is clear. The combination of her experience leading non-profits and her commitment to racial justice commended her to the Board of Directors.  We are excited that she will be able to help elevate the YWCA’s role in racial and gender justice not only locally but regionally as well.”

At YWCA Greater Newburyport, we believe in whole-person wellness. Encore is a free program designed for anyone who has experienced cancer at any point in their life. Through gentle exercise and community support, participants build strength, confidence, and connection in a safe, welcoming environment.

After Encore is a continuation program for those who have completed Encore and wish to keep moving forward on their wellness journey.

Current Class Schedule (effective September 9, 2025)

Monday/Thursday:

• 6:15 – 7:00  PM – Warm Water Pool Class

Tuesday

• 11:30 AM – Gentle Land Class

• 12:15 PM – Warm Water Pool Class
  (Classes are taught in combination with the Arthritis Foundation Land and Aquatic Program, also available to members.)