Rise & Thrive Voices

First Impressions Matter

Episode 2

Welcome back to Rise & Thrive Voices, the official podcast of the Santa Monica Family YMCA. We are excited to share our second episode with you as we discuss why first impressions are so important. This podcase is 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.

What Does Membership Really Mean at the Y?

So many people think of the YMCA as a “gym & swim;” but that is a tiny snapshot of all the things happening within the Y Movement. The YMCA was originally founded as a bible study in London for young men in the 1840s – from that moment, the Y has grown, changed, and evolved to serve the communities it sits in. Our YMCA was established 99 years ago, and we have continually worked to meet the needs of Santa Monica, Venice, and our surrounding neighbors.

Why is that important? Because the Y is about belonging, not just access to equipment and spaces. From the first moment you walk in the door, you’ll find people who are eager to not only know your name, but want to learn your story and help you reach your goals.

Y Impact Moment: Sam’s Story

Sam’s journey began with The Y just two years ago when she joined our staff team as a lifeguard. What started as just a job for Sam has become connection, belonging, support, and community. From building community in the weight room and on the pickleball court to showing up on the tough days during a health scare, Sam is a bright light at our YMCA, building connections with everyone she comes across.

We are so grateful that Sam is a part of our YMCA community, modeling friendliness, determination, consistency, responsibility, and grace. Thank you to Sam, inspiring us all to become our best self and show up every single day!

Recognition Moment: Membership & Facilities Team

No matter the season or the weather, you can count on our Membership and Facilities Teams to show up, making sure our building is ready to receive the community and creating an environment where everyone can belong. These individuals dedicate their time to thinking about all the details, working to provide the best experience possible for our members.

Reliable, hard-working, dedicated, and passionate describe these team members who live our YMCA culture, day in and day out. Thank you to our Membership Team and our Facilities Team for keeping this YMCA running and serving the community. We couldn’t do it without you!

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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!