River Crossing YMCA hosted Ja’Siah Young, star of Netflix’s hit family show, Raising Dion, as the keynote speaker at its fourth annual Lehigh Valley Community Gala Nov. 9 at Centennial Catering & Conference Center in Center Valley.

Over 250 guests attended the masquerade themed gala, raising over $170,000 to support YMCA financial assistance and community impact programs, including $50,000 in the “Send Kids To Camp” effort, which makes camp scholarships possible for families who otherwise would not be able to enroll their children in Y summer camp.

Masquerade Gala featured both live and silent auctions to support River Crossing YMCA community impact programs. These include the Allentown Warming Station, which provides beds and meals for the unhoused during the cold months (November-April), and YMCA feeding programs for children, families and seniors throughout the association. River Crossing YMCA provides the community over $12 million annually in the form of programs and financial assistance. More information about these programs can be found at ymcarivercrossing.org/wellness/pathways.

Young, who is 13, spoke about his exciting acting career, as well as what it is like to be a young star growing up in Easton. Young and his family have attended programs and swim lessons at the Easton branch of River Crossing YMCA throughout his life.

“I’m often asked, ‘What’s it like to have a hit show?’” Young shared during his address. “It’s an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. It’s new, interesting and fun!” Young emphasized how important it was that his mother took him seriously when he first declared his desire to be an actor at a very young age. Ja’Siah went on to talk about his life growing up in Easton and being involved at the YMCA.

“I was on a soccer team at the Y and I learned to swim at the Y. It’s a safe place for kids to go, and kids need safe places to be themselves and follow their dreams.”

Young was introduced by Easton Mayor Sal Panto, who pointed out the importance of the YMCA in Easton.

“The Y has been a steadfast partner in supporting the youth and families in Easton, and throughout my time as Mayor, I’ve seen firsthand how the Y strengthens our community.”

The gala program also featured special guest Hanna O’Reilly, current social media manager for Discover Lehigh Valley and former Y camp counselor. Awards were presented to Y Champion Award Winners the Bajan Family, the County of Lehigh, and Two Rivers Health & Wellness Foundation.

The presenting sponsor of the 2024 Masquerade Gala was Lehigh Valley Health Network. Silver sponsors were United Federal Credit Union and Wind Creek Bethlehem. A complete listing of all 34 generous community sponsors can be found at RCYGALA.givesmart.com.

Contributed article