Third Thursday July 2025
Staff Drive the Y Mission Forward
People will sometimes ask what makes the YMCA different. My answer is simple: it’s the people.
The Y is more than the sum of its parts... more than gyms and swim lessons, summer camps and community programs. What truly sets us apart is the incredible team of people who show up every day with purpose, passion, and heart. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside some truly remarkable individuals over the years, and I couldn’t be prouder.
This past month alone has been packed—program launches, special events, and community celebrations. (Take a look at our June edition of Third Thursday for a snapshot.) In the midst of it all, I sent a note to our leadership team, and I wanted to share a part of it here:
“I couldn’t be more proud of this group. I know how hard everyone is working, and I know many of you are running on fumes. But I want you to know it does not go unnoticed. I see you, I value you, and I am so grateful […] to celebrate your work and recognize everything you’ve poured into this movement.”
The truth is, the people who work at the Y inspire me every single day. They’re the reason coming in to work never feels like a job. They believe in our mission, and they live it. And I hope, when you walk into one of our branches, you feel it too.
This is the Y. This is our team. And I’m incredibly proud to serve alongside them.
On July 9, the Southern Saratoga YMCA proudly partnered with Senator Jim Tedisco and local community organizations to host the annual Safe Summer Bike Helmet event. Children received properly fitted helmets, along with bike safety tips from local law enforcement and community partners. The event highlighted the importance of safe, active play during the summer months and reinforced the CDYMCA’s commitment to youth well-being. As a special bonus, participating kids enjoyed some ice cream from Stewart's... a sweet reward for making safety a priority!
A big shout-out to the staff of Southern Saratoga YMCA, including SSY Executive Director, Andrea Montejano, for coordinating this event and for speaking on behalf of the Y and its mission!
Summer at YMCA Camp Chingachgook on Lake George is often a transformative experience for the kids who stay there. However, it takes a lot of training, significant staff dedication, and a lot of heart to make Camp Chingachgook a place where adventures abound and safety underscores everything we do.
Thank you to Jiné Andreozzi and the entire Camp Chingachgook staff for making camp so amazing!