How the Y Helped Chris’s Parents Stay Active After the Storm

The YMCA is more than a gym; it’s a lifeline, a community, and a place where individuals and families can rebuild and thrive, even in the face of life’s challenges.

Chris, a longtime member of the Taylor Bend Family YMCA and an avid water volleyball player, recently shared a story about his parents, who live in St. Petersburg, Florida. At 86 and 91 years young, his parents faced a tough challenge when the recent hurricane destroyed the pool and first-floor condos in their development.

Chris flew down to check on them and was relieved to find that their seventh-floor condo was unharmed. However, they were deeply missing their pool time—a favorite part of their daily routine.

Recognizing how important staying active is to their well-being, Chris took action. He found the nearest YMCA, brought his parents to enjoy the pool, and signed them up for a membership. Seeing how quickly they reconnected with their active lifestyle and found joy again in the water was a reminder of the Y’s impact across all generations.

We’re so inspired by Chris’s thoughtful gesture and proud to be a place where families can create moments like these, no matter where they are.