July 22, 2019
The Y’s tagline, “For a Better Us” speaks to the aspiration we all have to live in a community that is thriving, tight-knit, healthy, inclusive and compassionate. Invariably, all communities include many people who are struggling with their health, in poverty or some other condition that makes life hard for them and their families. That’s why the comments excerpted below from a Weinberg Y member are so poignant and underscore how as a Y community we can and must help people and families thrive in the face of the challenges they experience.
Here is what member Lee Bone wrote:
“My son Robert, aged 55 with early onset dementia, had a chance to come to the Weinberg Y and was coached and motivated in ways that were beyond what has happened elsewhere over the past year. Your fitness coach Skiro Jordan was superior. He should be praised and rewarded for his ability to relate to my son and get him to cycle for over 30 minutes. He is truly gifted and of course we will be returning.
Skiro would sit beside my son, doing the exercise bike along with him. What an uplifting experience as my son only sits and watches TV at home with me every day. We are so grateful. I hope that Skiro will be able to continue to coach Robert. We are blessed this day for having him.”
Thank you, Skiro. You clearly understand and embrace the essence of “For a Better Us.” By making Lee and Robert comfortable, happy and included, you made the Y a place of joy for them, their family and their community. You make me proud and honored to be your colleague.
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland