(Y) Connect Podcast

The Early Learning Program - YMCA Metro Atlanta

Spark Acceptance - Website

disabilities awareness month

en-usOctober 18, 2023

spark acceptance

Ep. 24 - Celebrating Exceptional People

With October being Disabilities Awareness Month, today on Y Connect we take the opportunity to introduce you to Victoria Inman, the proud mother of a remarkable daughter on the autism spectrum, and a friend of the Y. Victoria embarked on a mission to capture the essence of those who are differently abled in her captivating coffee table book called, "Spark Acceptance." The book features photos of over 50 individuals, some of whom are members of the Y.. Joining Victoria is Beth Costello, Aquatics Director and the Adaptive Sports Coach for the Decatur Family Y. Together these two extraordinary women share how they worked together to lift up the stories of truly exceptional people.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[2:59] Victoria begins by sharing why she chose the title “Spark Acceptance” for her book.
[5:23] Turning pain into purpose and revealing Victoria’s story with her child.
[9:41] Beth explains how she got involved in the aquatics program at the Y for special abilities children.
[12:33] Victoria collaborates with David Carr, the drummer from Third Day.
[14:04 Beth shares why she does what she does at the Y, and Victoria shares stories from her book that spoke to her.
[19:36] Spark Acceptance is available on sparkacceptance.com, and Victoria discusses the impact the book has had.
[23:36] Victoria’s advice is don’t be afraid of a diagnosis.
[25:54] Beth and Victoria share their Y stories.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The YMCA of Atlanta is working hard to provide programming for disabled children and adults, and it promotes inclusivity and awareness.
Disabled children have so much to offer. It’s important not to shy away from interacting with them. Treat them as you would any other child.
Kids can be cruel to children with disabilities, and it’s essential to instill in a child that they are valued, loveable and worthy.

RESOURCE LINKS:

The Early Learning Program - YMCA Metro Atlanta

Spark Acceptance - Website

BIOGRAPHIES: Victoria Inman & Beth Costello

With October being Disabilities Awareness Month, we wanted to take the opportunity to introduce you to Victoria Inman, Client Success Director with Jabian Consulting, the proud mother of a remarkable daughter on the autism spectrum, and a friend of the Y. Combining her consulting skills with her passion for photography, Victoria embarked on a mission to capture the essence of those who are differently abled – as well as promote genuine dialogue and societal acceptance – in her captivating coffee table book, "Spark Acceptance." The book features photos of over 50 individuals, some of whom are members of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.

Joining Victoria is Beth Costello, Aquatics Director and the Adaptive Sports Coach for the Decatur Family Y. Beth is a long-time advocate of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. She has led many adaptive Y programs, and she worked with Victoria in the development of this book.

QUOTES:

“Ultimately, this world could use more kindness and acceptance.

We can make that happen by sharing more smiles and random acts of kindness. And most importantly, appreciation and acceptance of people and their differences.” Victoria Inman

“If I had been more willing to be open about what we were going through, how much better could it have made the opportunities for our child? So, I would say, lean into your situation and find a circle of people that you can trust and reach out to, because one in five households in the United States, according to census data, is caring for a child that has a medical or a special need. That's 20 percent of the population.” Victoria Inman

“When I bring in new kids, I learn all about them. I get to understand how they work and I accommodate my teaching structure to the way they work. So it’s fun for me because I am constantly learning, I’m constantly connecting with folks, and I enjoy the parents as well. It’s just amazing work for me.” Beth Costello

disabilities awareness month

en-usOctober 11, 2023

spark acceptance

Pathway to the (Y) - Yeni Garcia and Alma Galeana

On today’s Pathway to the (Y), we are joined by Yeni Garcia and Alma Galeana. Yeni is the Sr. Director of Family Services and Strategic Partnerships. Alma is a former participant of the Y’s Early Learning Readiness Program and today serves as facilitator. Today, they share their pathways to the (Y) and how they continue to support the Y’s bilingual community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

- Alma shares how her sister encouraged her to enroll in the ELR program. Alma enrolled in the program when she saw the progress her nephews were making due to the ELR program. When Alma’s daughter started pre-K, her teachers were very impressed with the skills she was bringing to class. This led Alma to being employed at the Y.
- Yeni shares how her post-graduation job search led her to discover the ELR program. She began her 16 year Y journey in an early learning childcare center. Yeni shares what she loves about the Y.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Early Learning Programs provide important support and services to families with young children.
Children that participate in the Early Learning Readiness Program begin their school journeys equipped with skills and knowledge that set them up for success.

RESOURCE LINKS:

en-usOctober 04, 2023

fitness

health and wellness

ymca

hispanic heritage month

bilingual

community service

head start

bilingual families

Ep. 23 - A Bilingual Connection with Caregivers & Children

Thanks to generous support from philanthropic funders, for more than a decade the Y has made a meaningful impact connecting with Hispanic and Latino families preparing children for kindergarten. It’s called the Early Learning Readiness program, and as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to shine a light on this bilingual mobile, evidence-based initiative that engages caregivers and their children.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:27] Yeni begins by sharing how the Early Learning Readiness Program works.
[07:53] Yeni explains how the program embraces the different cultures that are represented by the members.
[09:20] Alma shares what her experience has been working in the ELR program.
[11:17] Yeni explains how they measure the impact and the effectiveness of ELR on children's readiness for formal education.
[14:09] Families continue to bring all of their children to the program because they see the impact it has made on the older siblings.
[20:01] Yeni reminds listeners that this program is free and says her passion is created by the ability to help others.
[22:42] Yeni and Alma share their Y stories.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Early Learning Readiness Program provides families with the resources and tools to equip children to learn at home.
The ELR Program is available to children who otherwise would have no opportunity for early learning and is free to families because of corporate donations.
The program is a collaborative effort between the facilitators and the families. There is no judgment on how they are parenting.

RESOURCE LINKS:

The Early Learning Program - YMCA Metro Atlanta

678- 728-1844 - Early Learning Program

en-usSeptember 27, 2023

fitness

health and wellness

ymca

hispanic heritage month

bilingual

community service

head start

bilingual families

Pathway to the (Y) - Isaac White

On today’s Pathway to the (Y), Isaac White reflects on what brought him to the YMCA. Isaac’s journey began as a parent of the Early Learning Program and today he leads the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force. Tune in to hear the powerful ways Isaac helps set dads up for success

IN THIS EPISODE:

Isaac shares his story and what brought him to the YMCA.
Isaac shares how important community service is as a parent.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Statistics show that children that have a supportive and active father in a household have a higher social competence and better peer relationships. Also, children whose fathers are engaged in their learning and speak with them frequently perform better in school.
Isaac believes that creating fun and memorable experiences for families is just as important as the education and community that the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force provides for its members. Memories that last a lifetime are priceless.

RESOURCE LINKS:

en-usSeptember 20, 2023

early learning program

Ep. 22 - Empowering & Connecting Fathers of the Y

According to research, children whose fathers are engaged in their learning and speak with them frequently have greater academic success. Recognizing the impact a father has on the life of a child, the Y’s Early Learning Program began the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force. Today you’ll meet Isaac White who heads up the initiative and shares the powerful ways they are setting up dads for success.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:32] What motivated Isaac and the Y’s Early Learning Team to found the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force and what are the main goals of the program?
[04:30] How the Fatherhood Initiative sets the fathers in their program up for success.
[07:15] Isaac shares how the Y team has helped make the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force happen.
[08:30] Robert reflects on his experience in a similar initiative.
[15:00] Isaac shares how working with the Warrick Dunn Foundation has impacted the program.
[18:45] What are the long term aspirations for the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force?
[21:00] How can Y members get involved with the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force or the Early Learning Program?

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Statistics show that children that have a supportive and active father in a household have a higher social competence and better peer relationships. Also, children whose fathers are engaged in their learning and speak with them frequently perform better in school.
Creating a supportive environment for fathers to learn and grow as involved parents has been crucial to the success of the Task Force community!
Isaac believes that creating fun and memorable experiences for families is just as important as the education and community that the Fatherhood Initiative Task Force provides for its members. Memories that last a lifetime are priceless.

RESOURCE LINKS:

en-usSeptember 13, 2023

Pathway to the (Y) - Pamela Bishop and Art Roman

On today’s episode of the Pathway to the (Y), Pamela Bishop, the founder and CEO of a data analytics and cloud computing company and Art Roman, business owner, mentor, and coach share how the YMCA helped shape their childhoods and led them to become prominent business owners. Tune in to hear how the diverse experiences the Y provides can empower children, and how Pamela and Art are paying it forward and giving back to the Y community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Pamela Bishop shares how her hard working parents led her to the YMCA and how her experiences helped shape the entrepreneur she is today.
Art Roman reflects on how the YMCA allowed him to experience new things and gain a passion for service work and giving back to the Y community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The diverse experiences that the YMCA provides to young people can empower them to pursue their goals and achieve their dreams.
Mentorship is critical in many phases of success. It’s important to be mentored, and it’s important to give back in the mentorship process.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHIES:

Pamela Bishop is the Founder and CEO of Airacobra Development, a division of Ascendax, which offers deep expertise in data analytics, streaming, cloud computing, product development/strategy and cybersecurity. Pamela has spent 20 years designing and building networks for Fortune 500 companies. Earning her undergrad from the University of Chicago, an MBA from Columbia University, and Master's degrees from Georgia Tech and Harvard University, Pamela has made significant contributions to the technology field. She has worked with organizations such as Cisco, Dell, NCR, Siemens, AT&T, etc. She also serves the community in multiple ways as a board member of the Andrew & Walter Young Family Y, the Renee Montgomery Foundation, and the National Black Artists Foundation.

Art Roman began his professional career in sales, working for companies like Colonial Bakery and Frito-Lay. Following his heart, he started his own professional landscaping business and, within the first three years, amassed a 150 client base, including organizations such as MARTA, Fulton and DeKalb Counties, the City of Atlanta, Decatur, and East Point. Through his professional success, Art was driven to mentor and coach young people. He has coached hundreds of youths, many of whom have endured challenging socio-economic situations. Establishing the youth foundation Impact Leaders, Art has ensured more than 200 young people have access to the opportunities, including thousands of dollars in scholarships and endowment awards.

In addition to his community service and his commitment to Impact Leaders, Inc., he is an active member of the Dekalb County chapter of 100 Black Men and a board member of the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA.

en-usSeptember 06, 2023

Ep. 21 - The Y Celebrates Black Business Month

Honoring Black Business Month, today we host two prominent black business owners who serve the Y as community engagement board members. Pamela Bishop is the founder and CEO of a data analytics and cloud computing company and Art Roman started a professional landscaping business as well as a nonprofit serving economically disadvantaged youth. These two brilliant business people share how they took a deep dive into entrepreneurship as well as the significant impact they are making on the Y.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:40] Both Pamela and Art reflect on what prompted the inspiration to step out and create their businesses
[08:37] Pamela shares the unique perspectives she feels she brings to her field as a black entrepreneur.
[10:10] Art shares how he partnered with other businesses in the black community and how important mentorship is to him.
[12:38] Pamela and Art reflected on the challenges they experienced on their journeys to where they are today.
[17:00] Pamela and Art advise young black youths who want to start a business.
[20:13] Pamela and Art share their Pathway to the (Y).

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Mentorship is critical in many phases of success. It’s important to be mentored, and it’s important to give back in the mentorship process.
Where there is a will, there is a way. If you want to start your own business, the road will be challenging, but you must persevere.
Research the field where you want to start a business so you are informed.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHIES:

en-usAugust 30, 2023

Pathway to the (Y) - Sam Holly and Jennifer Rewkowski

On today’s Pathway to the (Y), Jennifer Rewkowski, the VP of Community Health and Wellness and Sam Holly, the Wellness Director of the McCleskey-East Cobb YMCA in Marietta share what brought them into the YMCA community. Tune in to learn how they followed their passion for wellness and have benefited so many Y Members through the Coach Approach Program.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Jennifer Rewkowski shares how grad school led her to the Wichita, KS YMCA which in turn, brought her to Atlanta, GA to pilot the Coach Approach program.
Sam Holly shares what called him to the field of wellness and what inspired him to make a career change and become a Wellness Coach and then the Wellness Director of the McCleskey-East Cobb YMCA in Marietta.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

We do what we love. Both Jennifer and Sam felt called to the field of health and wellness. Their dedication and contributions to the YMCA have benefited Y members across the country, both in person and virtually.

RESOURCE LINKS:

YMCA Atlanta Wellness & Personal Coaching - Website

en-usAugust 23, 2023

coach approach program

sam holly

Ep. 20- A Personal Approach to Wellbeing

Are you engaged in physical activity? Is your practice steady? Do obstacles hinder your fitness routine? Jennifer Rewkowski and Sam Holly tackle these questions and share the success stories of the Y’s personal approach to wellbeing, otherwise known as the Coach Approach program. Through Coach Approach people cultivate a healthy lifestyle, elevate their mental health, and lower the likelihood of obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, and more. Don’t miss this conversation about connection and how to make health and wellness a lasting lifestyle.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[05:10] Jennifer describes what Coach Approach is, and Sam explains how the Coach Approach works.
[13:39] How does the program measure success and effectiveness?
[17:21] What are the differences between Coach Approach and a personal trainer? Sam offers a story of the success of one of the members.
[22:37] Sam explains how the coaches help persuade members to start the program.
[27:56] What’s next after Coach Approach?
[29:55] Jennifer and Sam share how they became involved in the Y.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Members needed to learn how to stick with an exercise program, so the Coach Approach program was started.
One of the reasons the Coach Approach program is effective is that members enjoy exercising in groups.
The program's flexibility is good as it meets members where they are at and what works for them. It is a judgment-free zone.

RESOURCE LINKS:

YMCA Atlanta Wellness & Personal Coaching - Website

en-usAugust 16, 2023

coach approach program

Pathway to the (Y) - Ian Thomson and Dr. Michael O’Reilly

On today’s Pathway to the “Y” episode Ian Thomson, Director of Racquet Sports at the Carl Sanders Buckhead Family YMCA, and Dr. Michael O’Reilly, the Amateur Pickleball Association’s Georgia state champion for mixed doubles level 3.0, share how their connections with other Y Members have made their time at the YMCA truly special.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Ian Thompson shares how another Y member inspired him to “get his foot in the door” with YMCA and why that has meant so much to him.
Dr. Michael O’Reilly shares why he returned to the Y after living abroad, even though he has a home gym!

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Having an authentic and fun environment paves the way for creating meaningful connections with those around us.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Northwest YMCA Atlanta Website

Reach and Rise Mentorship Program Website

YMCA Metro Atlanta Facebook

YMCA Metro Atlanta LinkedIn

YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter

BIOGRAPHY:

Ian Thomson, Director of Racquet Sports at the Carl Sanders Buckhead Family YMCA, is an avid Pickleball player who plays 3-4 times weekly. Ian has multiple certifications in Pickleball from the International Pickleball Teaching Professional Association and the US Professional Tennis Association. Ian teaches all ages and abilities and continues to learn and push the innovations of the sport. Ian is married to his wife, Charlotte, and they have six kids and five dogs.

Dr. Michael O’Reilly is an epidemiologist and stroke survivor who loves Pickleball. Michael’s first job in medicine was cleaning floors in a hospital for retired nuns in a blue-collar Boston suburb at age 13. He is a first-generation college student awarded a Morehead scholarship to the University of North Carolina. He has 15 years of experience investigating emerging infectious diseases in Asia and the South Pacific, mentoring Thai doctors conducting field investigations for SARS, Avian Influenza, Botulism, and post-tsunami response. In April 2022, Michael took up Pickleball. Four months later, he won the Amateur Pickleball Association’s Georgia state championship for mixed doubles level 3.0.

In September, he suffered a stroke, paralyzing his left side and requiring two weeks of hospitalization and three weeks in rehab. In December, after lots of physical therapy, Michael returned to the Carl Sanders YMCA to play Pickle with his friends, and since then, he’s been a fixture on the courts.

en-usAugust 09, 2023

ymca sports programming

Northwest YMCA Atlanta Website

pickleball association

Ep. 19- The Y & Pickleball–It’s Kind of a big Dill!

Ian Thomson, Director of Racquet Sports at the Carl Sanders Buckhead Family YMCA, and Dr. Michael O’Reilly, the Amateur Pickleball Association’s Georgia state championship for mixed doubles level 3.0, join our hosts today for a lively conversation about pickleball. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America which all ages can enjoy. There is talk about making it an Olympic sport which tells you about its popularity. It’s no wonder the YMCA has jumped in with both feet to make this sport available. Listen to this lively conversation to learn why pickleball is a big “dill.”

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:25] Allison introduces their guests and shares their backgrounds.
[05:50] Ian and Dr. O’Reilly explain how they began playing pickleball.
[10:00] Ian relates that there are clinics at the Y to teach pickleball, and he explains what “staying out of the kitchen” is.
[13:10] Dr. O’Reilly describes how the sport has positively affected him after his stroke.
[15:54] Ian, a national expert on pickleball, is a member of a coaches group who makes suggestions on rules for pickleball. The Y is actively having coaches of pickleball teach trainers.
[22:11] Dr. O’Reilly talks about the challenges he faced after his stroke and the camaraderie and friendships he developed at the Y.
[25:56] What was our guests' pathway to the Y.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Pickleball and tennis are similar; however, pickleball involves more strategy.
The Y is sponsoring clinics to teach pickleball.
Pickleball only takes a few minutes of training, and your skill level can advance much faster than a sport like tennis.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Reach and Rise Mentorship Program Website

YMCA Metro Atlanta Facebook

YMCA Metro Atlanta LinkedIn

YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter

BIOGRAPHY:

en-usAugust 02, 2023

ymca sports programming

pickleball association

Pathway to the “Y”- Oliver Amoaku & Juliet Tetteh-Hago

On today’s Pathway to the “Y” episode Oliver and his mom, Juliet share their Y story and how thankful they are to the friendly and generous staff at the YMCA.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Oliver and his mom, Juliet, share their Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The staff at the Atlanta Y’s have a reputation for friendliness.

RESOURCE LINKS:

en-usJuly 26, 2023

Ep. 18- "A 7-Year-Old and His Y Heroes"

Today you’ll meet Oliver and his mom, Juliet. Oliver is a remarkable seven-year-old young man and Y member with a heart as big as the state of Georgia. We invite you to hear his story of extraordinary gratitude. It’s a story that will inspire you and remind you what it means to be a superhero.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[02:16] Oliver shares his Y story and talks about what inspired him to give gifts to the Y staff
[05:01] Juliet tells how she reacted when Oliver made his request
[07:20] Oliver is overwhelmed by how the staff at the Y responded and is surprised by how hard the Y staff work
[10:10] Juliet is proud of her son, and Oliver has more ideas of how he wants to be generous
[14:43] Oliver and his mom, Juliet, share their Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Oliver is a generous giving young man who gives back to those who have enriched his life.
A seven-year-old boy can inspire an adult to be kind and generous.
The staff at the Atlanta Y’s have a reputation for friendliness.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHY:

After living in Naples, Florida and Chicago, Illinois, seven-year-old Oliver Amoaku and his mother, Juliet, moved to Johns Creek a year ago. Needing to keep up with his swim lessons, friends led them to the Ed Isakson Family Y in Alpharetta. Fortunately, the people at the front desk were so nice when they arrived they signed up with the Y immediately, saying it has been nothing but an amazing experience since. Oliver attends Ocee Elementary School and has two sisters and a brother. He loves basketball, bike riding, swimming and the YMCA.

en-usJuly 19, 2023

Pathway to the (Y): Monique Lee

Today’s Pathway to the (Y) episode features Monique Lee, the Arthur M. Blank Family Youth Y’s Associate Executive Director. She shares how she first became connected to the YMCA and why she feels fortunate to still be there 17 years later.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Monique shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Y draws in those with a calling to help others but in turn helps them develop professionally, spiritually, and on a personal level.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHY:

Monique Lee has been an integral part of the YMCA for over 15 years. She initially joined the Y of Middle Tennessee in Nashville, and two years ago, she transitioned to the Arthur M Blank Family Youth YMCA, where she is Associate Executive Director. Her journey began as a Y parent volunteer, and throughout her tenure, she has held various roles showcasing her dedication to the community.

In her time with the Y, she has worked with Afterschool Programming, Active Older Adults, Community Campaigns, and membership. She has served as the Co-Chair of the Women’s Leadership Resource Network, and most recently, she was appointed Co-Chair of the African American Resource Network. Furthermore, she is a member of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s Equity Cohort, demonstrating her commitment to promoting equity and inclusion.

en-usJuly 12, 2023

ymca community service

urban recipe

Ep. 17- Serving Atlanta's Youth: The Blank Family Youth Y

The Arthur M. Blank Family Youth Y, located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, is unique in its collaborations, diverse range of programs, and community outreach. Today on (Y) Connect, Associate Executive Director Monique Lee describes the impact of the center’s sports programs, educational initiatives, and social activities all of which foster a sense of belonging and unity within the community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[04:00] Monique shares how the Arthur M Blank Family Youth Y is different from other YMCAs
[08:06] Arthur Blank partners with Spelman College providing volunteers who tutor kids in reading, and with Power Up, providing free karate lessons to 30 children
[12:09] Urban Recipe partners with Arthur Blank to provide a meal for four every first and third Friday serving 50 families
[15:11] Arthur Blank has partnered with Centennial Academy to facilitate moving children through the Pre-K program to the Academy and then back to the Y for after-school programs
[23:04] Monique shares how the commercial kitchen provides daily meals for many Y’s.
[26:32] Monique explains how the African Atlanta Association provides opportunities for staff, enabling them to grow within the organization
[32:49] Monique shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Arthur M. Blank Family Youth Y in the heart of Atlanta is reaching kids by partnering with Spelman College to provide volunteers who assist with reading activities.
The Y helps families through Urban Recipes by sending home a meal that serves four on the first and third Friday of the month.
The commercial kitchen at the Arthur Blank Y could use more volunteers and running vehicles with working air conditioning. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Monique.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Arthur M. Blank Family Youth YMCA - Website

en-usJuly 05, 2023

arthur m blank family youth y

Pathway to the (Y) : Kristin McEwen

Today, we will hear from Kristin McEwen, the Chief Experience Officer for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. Kristin shares her Y Story and how she became such a catalyst for positive change within the Y for more than three decades.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Kristin shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Kristins endless experience in early learning has made her an invaluable asset to the Y.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHY:

Kristin McEwen

As Chief Experience Officer for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, Kristin leads day-to-day operations, strategic direction for membership, program initiatives for health and wellness and program services partnering with staff leadership, key volunteers and strategic partners to ensure mission advancement through positive community impact and experience.

Kristin has been a catalyst for positive change within the Y for more than three decades. Her career began at the Bainbridge Y as an Operations Director in 1989, never imagining this work would end up as her lifelong career and passion. Kristin's journey through the Y has allowed her to participate in the best cause-driven programs the Movement offers. During her 30+ years with the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, she has served in leadership positions in health and wellness at the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family Y, Operations at Robert D. Fowler Family Y and Executive Leadership at the Cowart and Sanders Family Y's. Kristin has also provided leadership to Health and Wellness, Membership and Aquatics for the association, increasing program impact, innovation and overall experience.

Kristin has established impactful strategic partnerships with community organizations, developing Winship at the Y Cancer Survivor program with Emory, Parkinson's Movement classes, Shepherd's Center head and injury program and CareSource and PeachState for the Y’s across Georgia.

Kristin lives in Peachtree Corners with her husband, Scott, and they have two daughters, Lacey and Mallory, who grew up in the Y. She holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alabama. Kristin loves spending time with her family and friends, college football and being physically active.

en-usJune 28, 2023

ymca of metro atlanta

membership opportunities

Ep. 16-The Y Member Experience with Kristin McEwen

With more than three decades of experience with the Y, today’s guest is Kristin McEwen, Chief Experience Officer. Kristin's enthusiasm is infectious as she shares the countless ways the Y supports individuals, children, and families throughout metro Atlanta. Whether it’s engaging at Y facilities or virtually through YMCA 360, she and the team at the Y are creating meaningful experiences for the well being of all.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[04:04] Kristin will highlight what her position entails at the YMCA of Atlanta
[06:41] She describes the Virtual Platform called YMCA 360, and she also describes the loyalty program
[09:35] Kristen tells about the membership survey feedback they received from the Listen 360 program
[13:32] What are some stories that have impacted her over the 30 years at the Y
[20:01] Kristin wants listeners to know that the Y constantly changes and remains relevant. She shares information about The Coach Approach to personal health and wellness
[23:23] The Winship program for cancer survivors, the Shepherds program, and the Parkinsons program are all available at the Y
[28:14] Kristin outlines the Partnership with Care Source and how that has impacted over 5,000 families
[30:07] Kristin shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

The Atlanta Y cares about its members. They launched a survey asking members for input on what the Y is doing well and where it can improve.
The YMCA remains active. It constantly changes and keeps up with what is new and innovative.
Members at the Y can have a Coach who will identify barriers or obstacles a member may have toward health and wellness activities and guides them through that journey.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHY:

en-usJune 21, 2023

ymca of metro atlanta

membership opportunities

Pathway to the (Y) : Dr. Andria McMichael

Join us today to learn how Dr. Andria McMichael, who is leading the YMCA of Metro Atlanta's effort to provide best-in-class early learning environments for Atlanta’s children and families, first became connected to the Y.

IN THIS EPISODE:

Dr. Andria McMichael shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Dr. McMichael’s endless experience in early learning has made her an invaluable asset to the Y.

RESOURCE LINKS:

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Andria McMichael

As Senior Vice President of Early Learning for the Y, Dr. Andria McMichael leads the YMCA of Metro Atlanta's effort to provide best-in-class early learning environments for Atlanta’s children and families. With direct responsibility for signature programs, Read Right from the Start, STEAM, Start for Life and Early Learning Readiness, she oversees programs across seven counties and 13 Early Learning Centers.

Andria joined the Y in 2019 after working with Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia as a Leadership Development Specialist. Before that, she served as a Regional Director for Imagine Schools in Maryland and as an Adjunct Professor for the Center of Urban Education at the University of the District of Columbia in Washington D.C.

Early in her career, Andria worked with the DeKalb County School District in a number of roles, including as a Title 1 Instructional Coach and Second Grade Teacher. Additionally, she served as an Outreach Science Coordinator, Instructor and Summer Teacher with SCITREK (Science and Technology Museum of Georgia) here in Atlanta.

Andria graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Education in Child Development from Spelman College and earned a Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Central Michigan University, a Masters Level Educational Leadership Certificate from Georgia State University as well as earning certification in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University.

en-usJune 14, 2023

Ep. 15 - Why Early Learning is So Important

Over the last year Atlanta’s Mayor Andre Dickens made the city’s first-ever funding commitment to Early Learning education through a $20 million investment, a combination of public and private funds. Join us for (Y) Connect to hear from the Y’s Senior Vice President of Early Learning Dr. Andria McMichael who shares how the Y is partnering with Mayor Dickens and other organizations to deepen early learning through the city and why it’s so important

IN THIS EPISODE:

[03:45] Dr. McMichael describes her role as Senior Vice President for early learning at the Y
[06:44] What does “STEAM” education look like, and what is “Read to Write”
[10:06] What does the research say about early learning, and why it’s so important
[13:45] Dr. McMichael outlines what the influx of public and national funds will go toward
[19:04] Dr. McMichael expands on the early learning readiness program for the Hispanic and Latinx communities
[23:27] The Georgia pre-K program and Rise in Kindergarten programs are available during the summer
[29:27] Statistically, children who attend early learning programs tend to be more successful as adults
[31:56] Dr. Andria McMichael shares her Y story

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Early learning programs are expanded during the summer allowing pre-K students to learn skills they need for kindergarten.
The early learning program is reaching 3,000 children in the Atlanta area. However, many more children could benefit if funds were available.
The Governor of Georgia has taken proactive steps to support early learning by budgeting twenty million dollars for the programs.

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