January 18, 2019
Happy Friday everyone! I hope that your year is off to a great start, and that this week has proven to be a fulfilling one for you.
It's always good to end the week with some Y Associate Shout Outs. There weren't that many in the queue, but the ones that were in there were terrific, so here we go!
John Blake (Trainer, The Y in Pasadena)
Last year my sons Gabriel and Elijah participated in the Basketball skills class that John leads. He made such a positive impact on my boys that a year later they continue to talk about Coach John and are even more excited to see him at the Y when they come. John always makes time to see what the boys are up to and gives them guidance and encouragement in their individual endeavors. It may have been a simple class to some but to my children it was access to a positive role model who continues to coach them off the court in life. (Submitted by Valerie McDougle)
Cassie Lewis (Membership Service Representative, The Walter & Betty Ward Y in Abingdon)
Cassie has been amazing. She recently transitioned to being our opener at the Ward Y. I have received so many compliments on how friendly she is, how she goes above and beyond, and how she's always smiling, even at 5:30 am. Cassie has recently taken it upon herself to do a deep cleaning of our break room (refrigerator included) and has been keeping up with it since the original cleaning. She also helped organize, package, and distribute our Giving Tree items. (Submitted by Megan Slaughter)
Jillian Powlowski (Senior Program Director, The Orokawa Y in Towson)
During a challenging scheduling situation at the Towson Preschool, Jillian and her team jumped right in to help us. Everyone that came to help provide classroom coverage was engaged, excited and a true joy to have at the Preschool. Thanks Jillian and Team! (Submitted by Jessica Gobble-Reil)
Renee Wilhide (Fitness Instructor, The Hill Family Y in Westminster)
Renee is an amazing instructor, Y associate and most of all an amazing person! She teaches Cardio Dance to a dedicated group of members and includes several members who have special needs and ability barriers, making them feel equally as important and valued. She not only teaches the class, she helps with the choreography, selecting music, and format for the class. Renee also teaches Core Conditioning, Zumba Express and Fit for Me, (which is a specific program for the physically and mentally challenged). Recently she has been a "super sub" filling in for another instructor who needed surgery! We thank Renee for her hard work, dedication and special talents. Did I mention that Renee was also VERY patient and is able to communicate to our deaf population with sign language!
She is INVALUABLE! (Submitted by Karen Farley)
So, thanks to John, Cassie, Jillian and Renee, and to every Y associate for the heart, passion, skill and joy you put into your work here at the Y!!!
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland