The world can feel messy. As a community, we are facing challenges that are complex, difficult and sometimes confusing.
The past few weeks have been especially hard for many of our program participants, members and some of our staff. The YMCA is firmly rooted in Judeo-Christian principles that call us to pay attention to the most vulnerable. These are values centered on compassion, dignity and a deep responsibility to care for one another. They remind us to look out for those who are struggling, to extend kindness without judgment and to create spaces where every person feels seen and supported.
When members of our community are hurting—whether staff, families or children in our programs—the Y feels that impact as well.
These moments remind us why our commitment to being a place for all matters so deeply. Our Y, and our community, are stronger and richer because of the diversity within them. When people of different backgrounds, cultures, faiths and experiences come together, we learn from one another, broaden our perspectives and strengthen the connections that hold us together.
At the Y, we must remain steadfast in creating spaces to foster that connection. We will always welcome all, show kindness to all and offer support to all who walk through our doors.
Across our association, staff have stepped up with compassion and care to support neighbors in need. Neighbors who are scared. Neighbors who are being told by some that they do not belong. Our staff’s efforts strengthen the fabric of our community and reinforce the Y’s role as a place of connection and belonging.
Thank you to the teams who continue this work every day. Your work is an example to us all.
