Today’s Pathway to the (Y) is sure to be a splash! We are joined by Carolyn and Chris, two energetic Y Members who call themselves the Mermaids. Carolyn and Chris share how they became connected to the Y and how the Y is now a part of their everyday lives. Tune in for this (mer)tail of connection, friendship, and wellness.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:00] Carolyn’s daughter signed her up for swim classes at the Y to encourage her to create connections and to keep her body moving.

• [2:15] Chris discovered the Y through her granddaughter, who was enrolled in swimming lessons at the Y. Chris was intrigued by the energy of the swim instructors and by the quality of the pool.

• [4:00] Allison reflects on the episode about Multi Generational Swim Lessons.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• It’s important to move your body to maintain balance, strength, and independence.

• Having a nice and safe pool to swim and spend time with their friends and family is an inviting environment for beginner and experienced swimmers.

• Connection and laughter can make one’s day.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

Today, we're thrilled to talk with two remarkable women who have dubbed themselves the Mermaids. From morning swims to community events, the Mermaids demonstrate how engagement, community, and belonging shape lifelong health and wellness. Get ready to laugh, enjoy, and discover how this group of swimmers makes every splash count, proving that age is just a number when you’re young at heart.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:08] Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids

• [3:22] Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her

• [5:17] Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y

• [8:40] How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people

• [13:48] Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y

• [17:09] The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically

• [21:59] The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active

• [25:30] The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees

• [30:25] Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships

• [7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate

• [9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

Welcome back to the (Y) Connect Podcast. We hope you enjoy this fan favorite episode from April 2023.

While there is no cure for Parkinson’s disease, slowing its progression and maintaining a quality lifestyle is possible. Today on Y Connect, Cindy Kennedy, a Parkinson’s movement Y instructor and Y member Greg Eggert, a former army helicopter pilot diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2013 share their story. In recognition of April being Parkinson’s Awareness month, together they share the benefits of exercise and the incredible community connections that people with Parkinson’s are developing at the Y.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [02:56] Greg describes what causes Parkinson's Disease and how it affects the body

• [05:38] Why Greg refers to himself as a gladiator

• [07:51] Cindy explains her motivation for teaching Parkinson’s training classes

• [12:03] Greg shares his goals since his diagnosis

• [13:14] Cindy explains how the classes improved Greg’s test results. His disease didn’t progress

• [16:04] Encouragement comes not only in exercise classes but the camaraderie among the members

• [18:17] Cindy explains the importance of motion

• [20:49] Greg’s path to the Y started when he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s

• [22:18] Cindy shares her journey to the Y

• [25:21] What are the signs of Parkinson’s Disease
  

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The significance of exercise for an individual diagnosed with Parkinson's disease surpasses that of the medications recommended.

• The Y nurtures developing friendships through class participation and a fun environment.

• If you know anyone with Parkinson’s disease, tell them about the specialized programs the Y has designed for them. If a person cannot go to the Y, a virtual link is available.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Larry Delgado Boxing Foundation

YMCA Atlanta - Parkinson's Link

In today’s Pathway to the (Y), we hear the impactful stories of members of Metro Atlanta’s Y Ambassador Board. Brian Kunney, Abby Paul, and Kendyl Lewis share their Y stories and how they were inspired to continue their journeys with the Y. Tune in to hear how these young leaders are impacting their communities both today and for the future.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:50] Brian’s Y story began at the Decatur Family Y when he was in elementary school. With his passion for sports, Brian had many opportunities to be active and involved with the Y throughout his childhood.

• [1:40] Abby spent much of her childhood at the Y, because her family were active members of the Y before she was even born.

• [2:00] Abby’s connection with the Y became more serious during college after the Y Ambassador Board was founded.

• [3:55] Kendyl also experienced the Y from a very young age. However, high school was when she became involved in a youth leadership program that was partnered with her local Y.

• [4:15] The hosts share their gratitude. Robert shares details about the Good Neighbor gym dedication from the Hawks at State Farm.
  

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• After being involved in the Decatur Family Y throughout his childhood, Brian knew that he wanted to find a way to give back to the community. So, he began volunteering with the YMCA.

• Abby’s family has been active with the Y since before she was even born, so Abby spent much of her childhood at the Y. She learned how to swim, gymnastics, and how to play tennis.

• Partnerships with local programs and the Y can lead to new opportunities for people in the community, as evidenced by Kendyl’s involvement in a youth leadership program that introduced her to the Y.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Kendyl Lewis, a Y Ambassador since 2022, is the Research & Community Development Manager at Partnership Gwinnett. In her role, she conducts economic research and leads redevelopment initiatives. Before her current role, Kendyl was a Research Fellow at the Atlanta Regional Commission. A proud Atlanta native, Kendyl holds degrees in Economics and Psychology from Georgia College & State University. Beyond her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her partner, Evan, and their energetic dog, Sampson.

Brian Kunney also joined the Y Ambassador Board in 2022. Brian is a Project Manager at the engineering firm P. Marshall & Associates (PM&A). With a decade of experience in civil engineering, he specializes in infrastructure, telecommunication development and construction projects. Graduating from Southern Polytechnic University with a degree in Architecture and a minor in Construction Management.

Abby Paul started her journey with the YMCA Ambassador Board 5 ½ years ago. She began her college career at Ole Miss before finishing at Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Currently serving as a full-time Registered Nurse at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, Abby specializes in providing comprehensive care to liver transplant patients. Abby proudly represents the fourth generation of her family to be involved with the YMCA. Abby is recently married to her husband, Michael, and she is the proud mom of her Australian Shepherd named Reese.

We're thrilled to explore how the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s Y Ambassador Board is not only shaping the future of the community but also preparing the next generation of boardroom leaders. Today, we’re talking with engaged and passionate members of the Y Ambassador Board. Y Ambassadors are young professionals, usually between the ages 22 and 35, from the greater Atlanta community who join in service to advance the Y’s philanthropic mission. They serve as ambassadors for the Y, and this opportunity will develop the pipeline of Y volunteer leaders of the future.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:11] The guests share why they joined the Ambassador Board and what motivates them to stay involved

• [8:33] Discussion of the Y’s mission and how it aligns with those of the guests

• [12:58] Kendyl shares a memorable experience of volunteering and community

• [15:03] Brian notes that networking through the different boards has benefited his career

• [17:36] Abby discusses how young professionals will play a role in shaping the future of the Y

• [19:46] Guests advise anyone who wants to get involved with community organizations, and they share what they have learned about themselves through the Ambassador Board

• [25:09] Guests share their hopes and goals for the future of the Y

• [28:39] Guests share their pathways to the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [2:21] The Metro Atlanta’s Y Ambassador Board helps shape the future through community involvement

• [9:35] Volunteering on the Y Ambassador Board allows board members to give back to the community and meet and network with professionals from the Atlanta area.

• [13:56] Members of the Y Ambassador Board can attend the Y Board of Directors meetings, learn about nonprofits and hear about the Atlanta Y’s vision

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Kendyl Lewis, a Y Ambassador since 2022, is the Research & Community Development Manager at Partnership Gwinnett. In her role, she conducts economic research and leads redevelopment initiatives. Before her current role, Kendyl was a Research Fellow at the Atlanta Regional Commission. A proud Atlanta native, Kendyl holds degrees in Economics and Psychology from Georgia College & State University. Beyond her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her partner, Evan, and their energetic dog, Sampson.

Brian Kunney also joined the Y Ambassador Board in 2022. Brian is a Project Manager at the engineering firm P. Marshall & Associates (PM&A). With a decade of experience in civil engineering, he specializes in infrastructure, telecommunication development and construction projects. Graduating from Southern Polytechnic University with a degree in Architecture and a minor in Construction Management.

Abby Paul started her journey with the YMCA Ambassador Board 5 ½ years ago. She began her college career at Ole Miss before finishing at Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Currently serving as a full-time Registered Nurse at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, Abby specializes in providing comprehensive care to liver transplant patients. Abby proudly represents the fourth generation of her family to be involved with the YMCA. Abby is recently married to her husband, Michael, and she is the proud mom of her Australian Shepherd named Reese.

This week’s Pathway to the (Y) highlights a global partnership with the YMCA of Metro Atlanta and the YMCA South Africa. We had the pleasure of speaking with Marcus Van Wyk, CEO of YMCA South Africa about this amazing partnership and what it means for the YMCA South Africa. Tune in to hear Marcus’s inspiring conversation.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:20] Marcus shares the high level impact that the YMCA South Africa has had on communities and individuals.

• [3:15] Marcus discusses Youth Day, and the role that YMCA South Africa played in this momentous day.

• [5:30] Marcus reflects on his experience at the Atlanta Hawks game and the potential of a global partnership.

• [6:50] A young man from a local Y in South Africa just made the national basketball team. A global partnership with the Atlanta Hawks and the YMCA South Africa could lead to more local success stories like this one.
  

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The YMCA South Africa is where Youth Day was organized by a few thousand high school students. Youth Day was a momentous day in the lives of South Africans.

• Marcus got to experience an Atlanta Hawks game during his time in the US. There was even discussion about the potential for the YMCA’s patch partnership with the Atlanta Hawks to expand to a global partnership.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Marcus Van Wyk has a BA in Human Movement Studies and Psychology from the University of the Western Cape. Still, a deep sense of humanity has seen him engage in a myriad of societal sectors as he strives to apply his unique and varied skill set.

Marcus boasts further qualifications in Educational Design Programming, Integrated Solid Waste Management Planning through the USA Environmental Protection Agency, Planning and Management of Special Events, Management Programme for NPOs, Project Planning, Corporate Social Investment Programmes, Diplomacy, Health and Safety and Labour Relations, amongst others.

His most recent position is Chief Executive Officer of YMCA South Africa. Other positions were Executive Chairperson of Mthunzi Network NPC and the Chief Operating Officer for Youth for Christ South Africa. He has also served as Project Lead for the UNHCR Social Cohesion Project in SA, being Coordinator and co-founder of IAMAFRICA, which involves Ordinary People Transforming Africa, as well as Coordinator of the We Will Speak Out South Africa Coalition of faith communities working together to end Sexual and Gender-Based Violence.

As a Consultant to the South African Council of Churches (SACC), Marcus provided protocol and logistical support for the 2013 State funeral of former President Nelson Mandela.

He has also served as Advisor to the Chairman of the South Africa Dutch Chamber of Commerce. He has extensive interaction as a Relationship Manager for various enterprises, liaising with all three tiers of Government, Political Parties, Private Sector and Civil Society.

His varied commitments have seen him facilitate Waste Management infrastructure for the 2010 Football World Cup in South Africa, from being the Liaison Officer for the State visit by the Indian Prime Minister to being a volunteer firefighter with the Table Mountain National Park.

His extensive experience and networks make him ideally suited to engage across sectors and bring key role players together in search of mutually beneficial projects that have the advancement and betterment of communities at their heart.

This week we are highlighting the pathways of an incredible family who decided to learn how to swim together and the leaders who made it happen. Jax Rupert, the Robert D. Fowler Family Y Aquatics Director, shares how he first got connected to the YMCA. Jennifer Mullen, a passionate swim instructor, shares how she gives back to her community through teaching swim lessons. Ayanna, shares how she encouraged her family to all learn how to swim because she wanted her sons to be safe around any body of water. This episode is full of family and dedicated individuals who made these multi-generational swim lessons happen.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:00] Aquatics Director, Jax Rupert became a lifeguard at 16. Living very close to a Y in his youth, Jax became a swim instructor and a swim team coach as well. His love for water and the Y

• [1:45] Jennifer Mullen sees her time at the Y as a way to give back to the community. She has seen first hand the difference the Y is making in the community.

• [2:40] Ayanna decided to sign her two sons up for swim lessons before the summer, so that she knew they had the safety skills they needed to be safe in the water.

• [3:20] Gwendolyn’s first connection with the Y was taking swim lessons with her daughter.

• [3:45] Nicholas was introduced to the Y by playing basketball after school with his friends.

• [4:30] Ryan shares how the swim lessons were his first Y experience and he loves playing basketball with his brother.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• From the young age of 16, Jax Rupert took on as many roles in the Y’s aquatics department as possible. This began a 16 year long career with the Y.

• The Y’s aquatic center is helping people from the community learn how to swim, water safety, and encourages a unique way to stay physically active.

• Ayanna was able to sign up her family for a Y membership. This has brought them together as a family and inspired each of them to try new things and to build their relationships through their swim lessons.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

Jax Ruppert

With a lifelong commitment to the YMCA, Jax began his journey at 16 as a lifeguard, progressing to roles as a swim instructor and swim team coach. Passionate about teaching and inspiring others, he transitioned into the role of Aquatics Director. His focus is on training and developing his staff to excel and taking immense pride in their growth and achievements. Committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, Jax spearheads drowning prevention programs, starting with educating parents on the critical importance of water safety.