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Recently, we asked our staff about why they work for the YMCA.  Check out some of my favorite answers from our PASSIONATE CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERS! 

I enjoy working with many different people and helping to improve the lives of children and families in my community. The Y brings people of all ages and backgrounds together in a fun and safe environment!  

I like having a positive impact with members; it's very rewarding. The Y is very charitable and I feel it is more than a place to work; it’s like my second home. Learn More!

The Y is a valuable organization which I believe in. We have many great programs here at the Y, such as the Black and Latino Achievers Program which I assist with. Learn More!

I came to the Y as a volunteer initially and became completely immersed in the mission and Y Movement. My passion for the Y stems considerably from my involvement with the Circle of Champs Program. Learn More!

I chose to work at the Y to have the opportunity to work with people, learn what it’s like to work in a wellness area and to learn what it takes to be a good trainer. Learn More!

I love my Childcare staff and the children that come in to our programs. I know I am good at my job and I believe it is important to love what you do. I am also a strong believer in the YMCA's Mission and we are here to help others and make a difference. Learn More!

I work for Camp Chingachgook because I believe camp makes a difference in people's lives. We are able to offer opportunities for children and families to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and make new memories. Many schools come to us because we create opportunities for children to grow with their schoolmates. Families enjoy spending time with each other in the outdoors and find new adventures together. It is rewarding to watch the relationships that develop throughout the year. Learn More!

We want our members, volunteers and friends to know how much the Y means to us! What does the Y mean to you? Are you INSPIRED?

Healthy eating doesn't start in your kitchen, it begins when you enter the grocery store.

Try shopping first in the outside isles. Fill your cart with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and dairy before you go to the inside isles. And remember to avoid impulse buying, never grocery shop on an empty stomach. Making a list and having a meal plan will not only cut down on shopping time, it can help save you money by avoiding the purchase of unnecessary items.

I was recently talking to a group of women that I know from my community on the topic of: what holds people back from maintaining a regular exercise plan.  We all know that when we exercise on a regular basis there are a multitude of health benefits. Some of these benefits include: weight control, combat health conditions & diseases, improved mood and increased energy. Sounds good, right?

So why then aren’t we all involved in regular physical activity? Based on my conversation with these ladies I would like to share with you their thoughts then provide some insight on solutions.

I work full time and have kids at home, I don’t have time to exercise. You don’t have to go to a gym to exercise. Look for ways to incorporate activity into your daily routine. Some examples of this would be taking a brisk walk during your lunch hour. Take a stretch break  at work. Exercise before the kids get up or after they go to bed. Split up your exercise time into smaller increments.  If you only have 10 minutes, exercises for those 10 minutes and try for another 10 minutes mid-day and then again in the evening. You don’t have to work out for an hour at a time, there are substantial health benefits from 30 minutes of exercise daily.

I don’t like to work out alone. Join a group exercise class or hire a personal trainer. Having support, motivation and accountability to others is a very powerful tool to keep you focused and engaged which will help keep you on track with your fitness goals.

After I exercise I don’t feel like working out again because I am so sore. I’m afraid to get injured. Anytime you are new to exercise or trying something different you can likely expect to experience some muscle soreness and/or muscle awareness. Ease into exercise and give your body the time it needs to adapt to the physical demands being placed on it. Often people come on too strong and burn out quickly. Make the time to add exercise to your routine but be sure to have it be gradual and progressive.

I can’t afford a gym membership. This is one, we hear a lot! Gym memberships can seem expensive, especially if you are not using it. While most gyms have a set membership fee, the great thing about the YMCA is that we offer financial assistance for those that qualify. We believe everyone should have the ability to live a healthy lifestyle. Through our financial assistance program individuals and families can make those healthy behavioral changes without breaking the bank!

So what’s stopping you?

At the Y, we want you to be healthy! If you are looking for help, support, and motivation to get you on the right path, contact me (ngildersleeve@cdymca.org) so that I may connect you with a wellness professional in one of our branches.

Have you ever helped a stranger in need? Did you tell a fellow member, volunteer or employee how much they are appreciated?

Simplicity is the beauty behind random acts of kindness and the genuine impact we have on others.  They take little time and effort, yet are truly meaningful and unexpected.

Here are 15 simple things you can do:

 
1.  Compliment someone at least once a day.

2.  Encourage someone who needs it.

3.  Bring flowers to your YMCA & share them.

4.  Bake treats for a neighbor.

5.  Write a note of appreciation to someone special.

6.  Give a ride to someone who can’t drive.

7.  Pay for those behind you in the drive through.

8.  Call or visit someone who’s sick or lonely.

9.  Say something nice to everyone you meet.

10. Send an anonymous gift to a friend.

11. Strike up a friendly conversation with a stranger.

12. Write a note of thanks and leave it with your tip.

13. Make a positive comment on a blog, or Facebook post.

14. Complain less & smile more, in fact smile at a stranger!

15. Make someone laugh. Laughter is the best medicine. :)

Take the time to spread a little kindness, and you might just inspire someone to do the same. You never know what hope and goodness one small act can generate!

As we head into race season and many are running races for the first time, it is important to know some of the basic rules of race day. For the more experienced runner, the tips below may act as a gentle reminder. These guidelines would have been helpful to me when I was a new runner. As a first timer, my thoughts during the race may have been very much different from the experienced runner. To help everyone succeed and feel great at the end, consider the following:

1. Line up according to your pace. Faster runners in the front, walkers in the back.

2. If you are tired and need a rest, do not come to a sudden stop. Instead, get out of the flow of the group and walk or rest to the side of the running pack.

3. When running with friends, try not to be more than two across. Creating walls of runners make it difficult to pass.

4. Watch for spitters! It’s a fact, runners often spit! If you are a spitter, please be considerate of fellow runners and make sure that your spit does not land on someone else.

5. Walkers, and slower runners stay to the right – faster runners pass on the left.

6. Remember your manners. This should be a fun event – if you accidently bump into someone a quick “I’m sorry” goes a long way.

7. We all struggle. Running a race has many meanings for those involved. We will never know what someone has had to overcome just to make it to the start line. If you see a fellow runner struggle, motivate and support them. A little encouragement may be all someone needs to keep going.

8. Remember to thank your volunteers. When I am running races, I often think - what motivates someone to get up early, stand out on a course and cheer on strangers? I’m not sure, but am thankful they do! Be the runner that high 5’s volunteers, thanks them for the water on the course and smiles or gives a quick thumbs up while running by. If it weren’t for volunteers many of these races would not be possible.

Race day should be fun and full of excitement! Being aware and following the rules above will help you and others succeed.

Happy Running!!!!

Try to get a solid 8 hours of sleep. Getting a good nights rest will give you the energy and focus you need to be productive throughout the day.