YMCA of San Diego County

Congratulations to Margie Newman Tsay for completing her first year as Board Chair of the YMCA of San Diego County and embarking on her second year with us! 🎉

We are thrilled to announce that Margie will continue leading the YMCA of San Diego County as board chair. As the founder of Intesa Communications Group, Margie brings exceptional expertise and unwavering dedication to her role. Her leadership will bring new levels of community impact and service.

Here's to another term of excellence and innovation under Margie's outstanding leadership!

🌊🩷Last month, players showcased their soccer skills at day camps countywide! We’re thrilled about our new partnership with ! 🤩 Thank you to , .jones9, , and for joining our campers and making their day unforgettable! ⚽️✨

We are incredibly grateful to be selected as recipients of the SDG&E Inspiring Future Leaders grant! This generous support will profoundly impact our community by funding scholarships and empowering young women through our Y-Strong Girls program. At the Y, we foster diversity, equity, and inclusion while promoting positive youth development and community well-being. Together, we are building a brighter future where young people can achieve their full potential. Thank you, San Diego Gas & Electric, for your commitment to our community and for investing in the leaders of tomorrow!

🎙️ Season 2, Episode 8 of the Be Well Podcast is here! Join us as T. Claude and Gladys B. Ryan Family YMCA Executive Director Jonathon Collopy sits down with Natalie Schneck Vice President of Marketing at Sports San Diego. Discover how Sports San Diego is positively impacting our community and get a sneak peek into the upcoming California State Games in San Diego from July 17-21, 2024 featuring athletes from across the nation! 🏅 We'll also be hosting the Skateboard Competition at the Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA Skatepark! Listen now on:

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7mw58WqwCY11MT3bFhaRpT

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/y-be-well/id1665275709?i=1000661814869

YouTube: https://youtu.be/urTGDEdM_E4?si=gl4QO-t3TqPh7wPq

The Youth Community Impact Project (YCIP) empowers young leaders to create change. Today we celebrated those leaders at the Y’s first ever Impact Fair! Youth leaders showcased their projects that both identify and solved needs they have observed within our .
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With strong partnerships and the Y’s support, these leaders are ready to bring their projects to life and create real change.

🌟 Congratulations to Diane Wavrik, Rancho Family YMCA and Escondido Gymnastics Program Director and Head Coach! She was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award from USA Gymnastics-Southern California last Sunday. Diane's journey began at the Dan McKinney Family YMCA, continued through UC Santa Barbara, and has positively impacted thousands of kids through YMCA character-building programs for over 35 years.

Diane's leadership has been integral to our Y's Gymnastics programs, coaching national champions and fostering growth as one of California's largest programs. She's not just a coach but a mentor, emphasizing care for each child beyond technical skills. Many of her gymnasts have gone on to collegiate careers and coaching, embodying the values and work ethic Diane instills.

Join us in celebrating Diane's incredible achievement and her profound impact on countless lives. Congrats, Diane!

We are thrilled to announce our partnership with San Diego Foundation, empowering over 1,300 youth through enrichment and camp opportunities across 5 branches to reach their full potential this summer.

Yesterday in Sacramento, Assemblymember Dr. Akilah Weber and Senator Steve Padilla honored the and Southeast Disaster Response Team as California Non-Profit of the Year by!🏅This honor celebrates our collective strength and the ongoing work to heal and rebuild from the January floods. Together, we will continue to support and uplift .

🎧 Did you know the YMCA of San Diego has a podcast?

Dive into the latest episode of Y Be Well! Our podcast host and T. Claude and Gladys B. Ryan Family YMCA Executive Director, Jonathon Collopy, chats with O.A.R. Bassist, Benj Gershman. Together, they delve into Benj's journey battling long COVID and the mental health challenges that followed upon returning to tour. Discover how Benj uses his music platform to spotlight the importance of mental health in the industry and why it's crucial to check in with those around you. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation!

* Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6dOrWlZGThTeqr01lP82U5

* Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/y-be-well/id1665275709?i=1000657206556�
* YouTube: https://youtu.be/KZ9EwWJiEyY?si=d5JOJb0xsh0CBiSE

“Success is not measured by the number of championships won, but by the impact you have on others.” - Bill Walton

Today, the YMCA of San Diego County mourns the significant loss of Bill Walton, a legendary athlete, inspirational community leader, donor, volunteer, and charismatic motivator. His boundless generosity and unwavering determination have left an incredible mark on San Diego.

Bill's legacy at the Y is profound, and we are grateful to have had his light shined upon us. Bill was an active member of our Mission Valley YMCA for many years, enjoying aqua therapy regularly, which he attributed to his well-being. Members often recall how his infectious enthusiasm and positive attitude had the power to uplift everyone around him. In addition to his significant contributions to the community spirit, Bill's unique sense of humor left an indelible mark at the Mission Valley YMCA. A testament to his playful side is the extra tall showerhead installed within the locker room, complete with a sign per Bill's request, noting the shower is for tall people. This quirk brings smiles to the faces of many members and stands as a lasting tribute to his fun-loving nature.

In honor of Bill Walton's memory, we reaffirm our commitment to uphold his values of community service, passion, and empathy for youth development through sports. His legacy will continue to thrive through the countless lives he touched and the positive changes he inspired. We are deeply grateful to have had Bill as part of our Y family and extend our heartfelt condolences to his entire family and community of friends.

Today marked a special moment at our Y as we convened the end-of-fiscal-year Board of Governors meeting. This gathering was not just a “meeting of the minds” but a celebration of dedication and leadership, particularly honoring volunteer Fred Sotelo. With a remarkable 4-year term as our Association Board of Governors Chair, Fred’s contributions have been immeasurable. Beyond his role on the Association Board, Fred is a committed Jackie Robinson Family YMCA board member and has played a pivotal role in the Southeast San Diego flood relief efforts. His leadership and passionate advocacy have been instrumental in mobilizing support and raising awareness for vital community needs. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fred for his years of service and the lasting impact he will continue to have on the San Diego community!

PS: We’re on the case to replace Fred’s recognition award after it swiftly slipped from his hands and broke—proof that even in moments of planned recognition, surprises can happen!

The first Parent & Caregiver Connection group is TOMORROW! Free dinner and child care provided.

For Parents and Caregivers of Children Ages 0-5
Wednesday, May 15 6:00pm – 8:00pm at Jackie Robinson Family YMCA

Parenting isn’t always easy, but you’re not in it alone! Join one of our upcoming Connection Groups designed to offer a safe and supportive space where parents and caregivers of children ages 0-5 and teens ages 12-17 can share experiences, gain insights, and bond over the joys and challenges of raising children.

ALL are welcome! Sign up now to reserve your spot. Visit ymcasd.org/mha to register.

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¡El primer grupo de Conexión para padres y cuidadores es MAÑANA! Cena gratuita y cuidado de niños disponible.

Para Padres y Cuidadores de niño(a)(s) edades 0-5
Miércoles, Mayo 15 | 6:00pm – 8:00pm
Jackie Robinson Family YMCA

La crianza de los hijos no siempre es fácil, ¡pero no está solo! Acompáñenos a uno de nuestros próximos Grupos de Conexión diseñados para ofrecer un espacio seguro y de apoyo donde los padres y cuidadores de niños de 0 a 5 años y adolescentes de 12 a 17 años puedan compartir experiencias, adquirir conocimientos y unirse a través de las alegrías y los desafíos de criar a los hijos.

¡Todos son bienvenidos! Regístrese ahora para asegurar su lugar. Visite ymcasd.org/mha para registrarse.

🚨Share this with a first responder! ❤️ First responders try the Y for free for a whole week! 🧑‍🚒👮🚑⛑️

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the YMCA of San Diego County is proud to extend a special offer to our local First Responders. Check in at any of our locations from May 12-19 and we’ll get you set for unlimited visits for a week! We understand the importance of mental well-being, especially in high-stress professions, and we’re here to support you. To find a location near you, visit www.ymcasd.org/mha. The Y. A place where you belong.

Today is Teacher Appreciation Day! ❤️And this whole week is Teacher Appreciation week! 🙏🏽

🧑‍🏫 This entire week is dedicated to celebrating the amazing work of our teachers, but we believe they deserve a lifetime of appreciation and recognition for their tireless efforts in shaping young minds. 📣 A big shoutout to all the YMCA preschool teachers and educators who work passionately every day to make a difference in the lives of children. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, you are truly appreciated! 🤗