Y Monthly Monday Mission Update
Extending our Impact Beyond the Classroom and Into the Y Community
Years ago, our brand theme line was “It’s Deeper Here.” This positioning was intended to use pool imagery to help broaden the community’s awareness about the totality and impact of Y work given the commonly held misperception of the Y as a place to simply swim and lift weights. Fast forward to today, I think it’s fair to say that our brand locally is much different than it was back then, with a far “deeper” understanding across the community of the Y’s far-reaching work and impact.
Considering that our work impacts over 300,000 people across the region and includes Community Schools, early childhood education (including Head Start, Early Head Start and other preschools), summer camps and enrichment, food pantries, mentoring, before and after school enrichment for elementary and middle school students, a wide range of teen programs, and oh yes, Y family centers with not only great pools and fitness offerings, but endless programming for families and people of all ages and interests. And, we work very hard to ensure that the Y isn’t simply a bunch of great but disconnected programs and services. No matter what one’s on-ramp to the Y is, all roads lead to membership in the Y community.
In our case, at least, there is indeed truth in advertising!
Of course it’s one thing for me to say it and quite another to have those we are here to serve explain what the Y means to them and their families.
Take a gander:
“We had a great experience during our years at the Y Preschool. The teachers were really incredible. My son developed great relationships. He learned so much academically, socially and emotionally. I am so happy we chose the Y for his preschool.” Alexander, the Y Preschool in Towson
“We love Y Chipmunks Preschool! This is our second year there. From the teachers to the parent association it's wonderful. I so appreciate having a parent group. It creates a sense of community.” Christin, the Y “Chipmunks” Preschool in Westminster
“The Y does so much for my kids. They have learned so many different skills that will prepare them for primary school.” Josiah, Baltimore County Y Head Start
“I like the fact that my child is learning more. He learns not just the alphabet and numbers but about different places and people.” Nehemiah, Baltimore City Y Head Start
“The teachers are very caring and patient with the students. They're also very dedicated to teaching and making sure no child is left behind in the learning process. I'm so grateful for the love and support I have received.” Noah, Anne Arundel County Y Head Start
“The Y Before and After School program has been wonderful for our family. Our son has fun playing with other kids, and the instructors provide activities and safe supervision. The program accommodates our work schedules so we don’t need to worry about our son while he is there. I 100% recommend this program!” Michael, Y Before and After School Enrichment, Rolling Knolls Elementary School, Annapolis
“Y Before and After School Enrichment is a great program and they care deeply for the children enrolled in it. They motivate and make the kids independent. A big Thank you!” Shanaya, Y Before and After School Enrichment, Prospect Mills Elementary School, Bel Air
And, the cool thing about all of these families is that, because they’re in these Y youth development programs, they are also members of the Y. So, our impact goes beyond the classroom and into the Y community. Because, at the Y, youth development doesn’t end when any given program ends. It extends as far as you want to take it.
All the best,
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland