News Release: 3/29/2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                        Contact: Sarah Fishel, Executive Director
Monday, March 29, 2026                                                                               Phone: (540) 539-4656
                                                                                                                       Email: sfishel@myydc.org

WINCHESTER, VA – The Youth Development Center (The YDC) will host Greener Living
Day on Saturday, April 25, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM at The YDC, 302 S. Loudoun
Street in downtown Winchester. This free, family-friendly event will bring together local
organizations, educators, and community members for a day of hands-on learning, environmental
education, and community connection.

Greener Living Day is designed to introduce practical, accessible ways to live more sustainably
while creating meaningful experiences for youth and families. Planned activities include planting
and horticulture stations, educational presentations, informational tables from community
partners, live music, and opportunities to learn about conservation, recycling, and responsible
resource use. Organizers are currently working to finalize participating community partners and
vendors.

The event is being coordinated by Valeria Perero Santa Cruz, a Shenandoah University student
and the Community Engagement Coordinator with Shenandoah University’s Center for Civic
Engagement, who has been leading planning efforts in partnership with The YDC team. Known
for her thoughtful organization, attention to detail, and positive energy, Valeria has worked
closely with local partners to shape the vision for the day.

“Greener Living Day is about showing families that small choices can make a real difference,”
said Perero Santa Cruz. “We want this event to feel welcoming, educational, and inspiring.
Sustainability doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It can start with simple steps, shared learning,
and community support.”

The initiative is being developed with the partnership and support of Rebecca Gibson, Director
of Shenandoah University’s Center for Civic Engagement. The YDC is grateful for Shenandoah
University’s collaboration in helping bring educational and community-focused programming to
life.

Programming will also include creative and hands-on elements guided by YDC Program
Coordinator Lindsay Browning, an arts educator, performer, and visual artist with more than
twenty years of experience.

“Events like this allow young people to connect creativity, science, and real-world problem
solving,” Browning said. “When kids get their hands in the soil, create something, or learn a new
skill, the lesson stays with them. That sense of curiosity and responsibility is powerful.”

YDC Executive Director Sarah Fishel emphasized that the event reflects the organization’s
broader mission of expanding opportunity for youth and families.

“At the YDC, we believe learning should be engaging, relevant, and connected to the world
around us,” Fishel said. “Greener Living Day is about opening doors to new interests and helping
young people see how they can be leaders and stewards in their own community.”
Greener Living Day is open to community members of all ages, with activities designed to be
accessible, interactive, and family-friendly.

To learn more or register, visit https://www.myydc.org/events/greener-living-day.

Founded in 1990 by a group of visionary community leaders, the Youth Development Center (The YDC) has served
generations of young people from Winchester, Frederick County, and Clarke County. With deep roots and even
deeper impact, The YDC continues to be a safe, inclusive, and energizing space where youth are seen, supported,
and inspired to grow.