Rise & Thrive Voices
Now Launching the Official Podcast of the Santa Monica YMCA
Welcome to Rise & Thrive Voices, the official podcast of the Santa Monica Family YMCA. We are excited to launch this series, not just as a podcast, but as a vehicle to tell the stories of what is happening in our walls and in the community. Follow along as we share stories of impact, leadership, and community.
Facility Highlight: Audre Slater Maker Space
Did you know that the YMCA has a Makers Space? Tucked within our Y’s walls, the Maker Space is designed to be more than just a room—it’s a launchpad for possibility. Outfitted with tools and materials for crafting, design, science, and technology, this vibrant space will serve children participating in our After School Enrichment, Day Camps, and future youth development and intergenerational programming. Whether it’s engineering a simple circuit, painting a dream, or building a robot prototype, this space gives our young thinkers the freedom to explore, experiment, and express themselves.
Thank you to the Audre Slater Foundation for furnishing the space and tools for our next generation to make their dreams come to life!
Y Impact Moment: Leroy’s Story
Leroy’s journey began with The Y over 15 years ago as he took steps to build a healthier lifestyle for himself. Joining the Santa Monica Family YMCA over a decade ago, Leroy came to The Y fresh on his journey towards sobriety. Focused on getting better, what Leroy didn’t expect was a complete transformation, finding his strength and peace of mind. Leroy’s determination and resilience helped him build a flourishing career and reach his best health in Spirit, Mind, and Body.
We are so grateful that Leroy is a part of our YMCA community, modeling drive, determination, consistency, and grace. Thank you to Leroy, inspiring us all to become our best self and show up every single day!
Recognition Moment: Kevin & Summer Camp
With Summer Camp in full swing, it’s important we take a moment to celebrate the leaders who make the environment where kids can be their exuberant, creative, and silly selves possible. Camp is the environment where kids build friendships, make memories, and build strong character when they are led by strong role models.
Our Director of Youth Development, Kevin or “K.K.,” has created an environment where everyone is celebrated for showing up as themselves and showing up for others. One camp tradition Kevin has introduced is the “High-Five” where camp counselors write down notes of gratitude when they see other staff stepping up. This new camp tradition is building a culture of recognition and celebration that the counselors then bring into their interactions with the campers.
Thank you to Kevin (and all of our camp counselors) for creating this special atmosphere where celebrating one another is centered!
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
This year, we will be sharing ninety-nine stories of impact this year through our Anchored in Community celebration, lifting up stories of our community members as we celebrate the Santa Monica Family YMCA’s 99th year of consistent service. Collected from our volunteers, members, program participants, to our community partners, we will be sharing stories that remind us what is possible when you anchor yourself in community, something you can always find at the Y. If you are interested in sharing your YMCA story and being a part of the 99 Stories of Community series, please fill out this form!
We invite you to follow along as we share these stories of impact, belonging, and purpose. Thank you for being a part of our community!
