I have been working for the Spencer Family YMCA for 5 years as a group exercise instructor and personal trainer. Recently have become a full time staff member as a Healthy Living Coordinator, encompassing personal training, group fitness and member engagement. I love my days here-- I am fortunate to love my place of work-- Interacting with the community has made me a better person. From the members I train, to those who take my classes , to fellow staff members, I am surrounded by gems of human beings. Just to highlight of a few of the people -- MaryAnn is a member and the human form of a love and kindness. She is welcoming to new members, making sure anyone new to class feels at ease. She generously bakes cookies for the staff, which we all enjoy and appreciate . And Kevin-- who trains every morning. Equipped with coffee and a hearty hello to all he meets. He makes sure that everyone he contacts has a great day. I joke that he is the mayor of the Spencer YMCA, as everyone knows and loves him. And Joan, who was a member here and took on the part time job of helping in our kid zone. Although she could fully enjoy her retirement, she generously gives her time so that others can use child watch and other staff members are not overworked. She is selfless and generous with her time. This is just a sampling of the wonderful people here at the Spencer YMCA. We are are like family here. I am taking time to reflect on our incredible community and share my immense gratitude for YOU, members and supporters like YOU do to keep the Spencer Family YMCA fulfilling our mission everyday. I am sure most of you do not know that we are non-profit organization, and we do NOT turn anyone down for what they would want to participate in, which includes, membership, swim lessons, summer camps for kids, and programs for children and adults. Thanks to our annual campaign we are able to say YES to these people and support their wishes. We could not do this without the support of YOU. Thursday is our DAY OF GIVING for Staff and members for our SPRING annual campaign. Thursday is one of our biggest fundraising days of the year, THIS Thursday, March 21. I am hoping to get your attention and ask you a favor. I would be incredibly thankful to have a few donations to start building momentum before then. You can give whatever you CAN give back to our community!, whether that is $5 a paycheck, or a single donation, your choice. It is tax-deductible:) My goal is $500. With your help, we will use these funds to provide memberships, swim lessons, kids going to summer camp and programming. your donation will keep our programs growing for years to come. I thank you! Wishing you and your families a wonderful SPRING in 2024!