First Responder John's YMCA Experience

As a first responder, living a healthy lifestyle is an important part of my lifelong goal! The YMCA has been an instrumental part of that goal for almost 19 years. More recently, with the added 24-hour first responder access, I am able to fit my workout routine into my hectic schedule with ease. This access has allowed me time to recover from long and sometimes mentally taxing shifts. I go into the YMCA at Edinburgh after or before hours to have time to process while keeping my physical fitness routine. To say that the 24-hour access is a gift is an understatement. This access helps me feel appreciated for my work and its importance to the community I live in. There are times where I run into individuals that I have helped at the Y, and I am always grateful to see how people that I have helped are doing.

Not only has the YMCA helped me achieve and continue to work towards my physical fitness goals; the YMCA has played an invaluable role in my family’s fitness goals and community connections. My entire family feels like we have been part of the Y's extended family since Day 1 of our membership. We have made so many meaningful relationships through the connections we've made with the many child care staff members that have nurtured our three children over the past 19 years. The staff has always made an effort to make our children feel special and safe. As a first responder, that is very important to me. In a world where there can be a lot of uncertainty, it's been a relief to know that my family has always felt a welcomed and an important part of the YMCA family.

The entire YMCA staff from the front desk, floor staff, custodial, to management have always been positive and go out of their way to look for ways to constantly improve the Y experience. My wife and I have also made special connections with many of other YMCA members. In fact, we have made some very close friends through group exercise classes and weight room conversations that have helped us weather difficult times such as COVID-19 and unexpected life events. It is always comforting to know that we have consistent connections and encouragement from our YMCA family and friends. The YMCA truly feels like our second home and has helped to teach our family the importance of personal wellness and community relationships!