Y Monthly Monday Mission Update
A New Year’s Resolution Worth Doing Together
As we think about the year we just left behind and enter a new one, it’s natural to take stock of the road we’ve just traveled, and the road that is right in front of us. I’m not one for New Year’s resolutions (although I’ve made more than my fair share of them; some of which I might have actually lived up to), but one thing I have been thinking a great deal about as we’ve flipped the calendar to 2025 is how increasingly relevant our work here at the Y is to building community and social connection in a time when those things are credibly at increasing risk across our country and region. Being a part of a cohesive community inherently creates the kind of social connectedness that social scientists affirm we all need personally and collectively. And, according to the research, pioneered by Bowling Alone author Dr. Robert Putnam, our community is at its best when we are all experiencing both types of social connection (or “capital”): a "bonding" type (which occurs within a demographic group) and a "bridging" type (which unites people from different groups).
Innumerable scientific studies affirm that a lack of social connection is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure. Those studies reveal that strong social connection leads to increased longevity, a stronger immune system, quicker recovery from illnesses, and lower levels of anxiety and depression. Last year, outgoing U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy declared a national loneliness and social isolation epidemic throughout the country.
Here at the Y, we have made it both our mission and purpose to be intentional about building community that includes both bonding and bridging opportunities. That shows up in everything we do, but is best and most universally played out through membership in Y family centers, which is experienced by well over 125,000 members across this region. I am continually reminded of this in so many ways, including through the comments we receive every day from our members. Here are just a few of the thousands I’ve read over the years. They’re not written by either Dr. Murthy or Dr. Putnam, but something tells me that both of them would be quite pleased to read them.
- "One moment you walk through the doors, you are welcomed into an environment that fosters inclusivity, support, and camaraderie. The associates and fellow members are friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand, whether you're new to fitness or an experienced athlete.” Folasele, The Dancel Y in Ellicott City
- "I can’t say enough good things about the Y. I joined in May when I stopped working because of serious health issues. I couldn’t climb up my stairs and had serious nerve pain. They are my savior… I credit the Y for my health progress…..The associates are wonderful, and very supportive. They are like a family.” Victoria, The Y in Parkville
- "Everything is great here. The food pantry and all the food they provide for us is 2 thumbs up. The associates are very polite and fun to talk to about stuff. They have fun. Ms. Fern is a winner at all she does.” Jenkins, The Y in Druid Hill
- "The best place for seniors to gather, exercise, swim and be part of a great family. Competes with Disneyland as the friendliest place on earth!” Virginia, The Walter & Betty Ward Y in Abingdon
- "I love the community of Karen Brooks' cardio dance class; the joy with which Bill Willingham does his job. Being greeted by him makes the day start with a smile.” Karen, The Orokawa Y in Towson
- "I looked into joining different gyms. They were either too busy, impersonal, expensive or boring. I decided on the Y because the Y has it all. Clean environment, variety of classes and times, a pool, and I think mostly the people. The Y is not only a gym, the Y is a community, truly a community within the brick and mortar. The Y is for the older, like myself, but also children, teenagers, college students, individuals, families, everyone! I truly love being here and will continue to venture into new activities!” Kim, The Hill Family Y in Westminster
- "We always thought the Y was out of reach for our family. But the open doors program is wonderful and made us feel included.” Tavone, The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Y in Waverly
- "The Stay & Play makes it so much easier for me to build in exercise into my busy working mom life. The swim lessons are fun for my kid and the facilities are great. I joined on kind of a whim and now the Y is a huge part of our family’s weekly routine. The benefits reveal themselves to you as you join the community!” Claire, The Y in Catonsville
We certainly get all kinds of comments from members, so I don’t want to create the impression that all of the commentary is about the power of community being experienced at the Y. We’re an imperfect organization, but one that is always trying to do better and focused on ensuring that our vision of creating a healthy, connected, and inclusive community in everything we do remains our North Star.
So, here’s my new year’s resolution for all of us: let’s all work just a little bit harder in 2025 to build the kind of social connections that lead to both better personal health and a more satisfying community.
All the best,
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland