July 10, 2020

Dear Members,

As we are now permitted to incrementally offer our programs, it is wonderful to have the energy of the staff, campers and members in the building (even if the number permitted is significantly limited). While we never could have imagined being closed this long, it does make this phased reopening all the more sweeter.

Summer Camp began on July 6 and while logistics have changed, it still was the official kick-off to summer we have come to know and enjoy.  Despite the thunderstorms (a bit of an ironic metaphor for 2020 thus far!) our campers had a fantastic start to the week. We have limited openings still available; so, if you are interested in your child joining us this summer, please visit our Summer Camp info page.

The Fitness Center opened yesterday for our Total Facility Members to reserve one-hour blocks of time for individuals and households (all details can be found here). We will continue to offer outdoor sessions three mornings a week in addition to our full schedule of live and on-demand virtual classes. We encourage you to take advantage of these opportunities to support your wellness throughout the summer.

If you are eager to get off dryland, I’m pleased to let you know Governor Murphy has allowed the reopening of indoor pools. Once we receive local approval, we will offer adult lap swim in addition to open swim for our campers. As we are permitted to proffer more and more opportunities, we will communicate changes through email, our website, and across our social media channels. Be sure to follow us for the most up-to-date details.

New Jersey is continuing on a positive trend in many areas, yet state executive orders change quickly. You can remain confident all our policies and procedures are based on COVID-19 standards and guidelines from the state and local Departments of Health and the CDC. Our preparations become successful thanks to your respectful partnership. We are grateful for the support of members, parents, and campers who are working alongside us to ensure the commitment to one another’s health remains a priority.  We are also grateful for the generosity of members and the community at large in helping us financially with donations so we are able to continue our mission of being here for everyone – regardless of their circumstances.

It also remains exceedingly important that our Connection community actively unifies to support a more equitable world. While current circumstances don’t permit us to gather as we’d like, the need for social justice does not stop, so we must continue to move forward to combat racism and become better allies. Please respond to an upcoming survey regarding your interest in Connection-sponsored initiatives.  If you are seeking anti-racism information in the meantime, please visit our website for recommendations and resources.

I recognize it might be some time before you are comfortable participating in your in-person classes and programs. When you are ready to return, we so look forward to safely welcoming you back to your “home away from home.”

Wendy Graeb
Executive Director