This is Dionne's Story: Your support helps us write the next one

Dionne moved to Hampton Roads in 2002 after completing her military service. Since finding the Y, her family has embraced swimming as a crucial part of their lives.  

Malique, 19, started swimming lessons when he was 9-years-old. “He couldn’t swim at all, and decided to continue because he liked it,” said Dionne. Continuing to train at the Y, he eventually joined his high school swim team.

Malayia, 11, followed her brother’s lead, starting lessons when she was only 3. Forced to take a pause during the pandemic, she restarted lessons this January and is regaining skills and stamina. “I want them to be strong swimmers and to learn lifesaving techniques for their safety, and to help others in an emergency,” Dionne emphasized. “Swimming is also beneficial for their health and wellness.”

Kathleen Berger, who gave Malique his first lessons, recognized his potential years later. Dionne recalls, “When she saw him practicing to be a lifeguard, she asked if he would work at the Y. He is now lifeguarding at the Greenbrier Family YMCA. It’s a comfortable place to work because he has friends there. A good feeling to know that his teacher became his boss.”

The Y’s positive environment has been crucial for the family. “I appreciate that my kids are around positive people at the Y. I like Malique being in that kind of environment,” said Dionne.

Dionne expressed immense pride in her son’s achievements, particularly as a person of color in a sport with limited representation. “Passing the lifeguarding test was difficult. He tried hard and kept practicing.” Dionne’s has a vision for her children. “I want my kids to have exposure to different experiences in life, to embrace diversity and enjoy different cultures. The Y represents this environment.”

Inspired by her brother, Malayia is determined to become a strong swimmer. “She is building her skills and keeps going,” Dionne said.

Dionne’s commitment to her children’s swimming education stems from her own missed opportunities. “I didn’t have swim lessons when I was younger. If I had that exposure, I would be a swimmer.”

For Dionne, swimming is essential, and she appreciates that the Y offers scholarships so that everyone has the opportunity to learn. “Every family should have swimming as a number one priority, just like going to school. Everyone should get the chance to learn to swim. In any situation, they can help someone.”

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