Today, we're thrilled to talk with two remarkable women who have dubbed themselves the Mermaids. From morning swims to community events, the Mermaids demonstrate how engagement, community, and belonging shape lifelong health and wellness. Get ready to laugh, enjoy, and discover how this group of swimmers makes every splash count, proving that age is just a number when you're young at heart.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:08) Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids
• (03:22) Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her
• (05:17) Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y
• (08:40) How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people
• (13:48) Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y
• (17:09) The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically
• (21:59) The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active
• (25:30) The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees
• (30:25) Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships

• [7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate

• [9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts welcome Omari Crawford, State Representative for Georgia's 89th House District and East Lake Family Y Board member, who shares his deep-rooted connection to the YMCA and his passion for running. Omari reflects on how his early experiences with Y athletic programs shaped his commitment to fitness and mental well-being, drawing parallels between marathon training and the discipline needed in sports and life. He also discusses how the legislature addresses mental health for athletes, the valuable lessons the Y instills in youth, and how he prepares for races with a focus on consistency.. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on perseverance, balance, and the power of community at the Y!

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Intro

(03:15) Omari's history of participation at YMCA athletic programs

(07:44) Legislature's approach to mental health for athletes

(10:32) Omari on marathons and what the Y teaches youth

(16:16) Preparing for races

(24:08) Omar's journey of marathons and information on his next run

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Omari Crawford's experiences as a student athlete shaped his advocacy for mental health support in sports. He emphasizes athletes' challenges, such as performing under pressure while dealing with personal struggles. He has worked on legislation to support their well-being, which received strong bipartisan support.

• The YMCA played a significant role in Crawford's early development, from sports to community building. Now, as an adult, he remains actively involved, serving on the Eastlake YMCA board and advocating for the organization. His dedication extends to a personal goal of running half marathons across the country, aligning with the YMCA's mission of promoting health and community engagement.

• Omari Crawford shares how running has shaped his mental well-being since childhood. He emphasizes the power of consistency in long-distance running and challenges himself through disciplined habits.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Omari Crawford - Instagram

BIOGRAPHY:

Omari Crawford was raised in DeKalb County, Georgia and currently serves as the State Representative for Georgia's 89th House District. After graduating from Southwest DeKalb High School, Omari attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) on a track and field scholarship. During his collegiate career, he was a member of the all-academic conference team for three consecutive years. Omari received his Bachelor of Science in political science and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from FAMU in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Omari earned his law degree and Master of Business Administration from North Carolina Central University in 2013. Omari serves on the East Lake Family YMCA boards and the MTS Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc. He is an active member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc., DeKalb Lawyers Association, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia—serving as the Grand Attorney and serves as a member of the Clark Atlanta University Athletic Director Advisory Council. Omari uses his athletic experiences as a former Georgia High School Association Track and Field Champion to mentor DeKalb County high school student-athletes. Omari participates in races and cycling events around the country in his spare time.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts are excited to welcome a young trailblazer in agriculture. At just nine years old, the youngest certified farmer, author and founder of Kendall Rae's Green Heart, Kendall Rae, shares her inspiring journey. Alongside her mom Ursula, she discusses how her love for farming began, the variety of fruits and vegetables she grows in her front and back yards, and how her passion evolved into a business. She also breaks down hydroponics and shares the story behind her book, I'm Growing Places, which uses rhymes to teach the plant life cycle. This episode offers practical advice for kids interested in farming and a glimpse into the plans for expanding the farm and sharing knowledge through new projects.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:48] Kendall's inspiration for farming

• [9:59] Kendall shares a tour of her garden

• [15:01] Discussion of the catering company and Kendall's favorite recipes

• [19:32] What was the inspiration for selling the produce, and the farm's operation

• [24:22] Defining hydroponics and the inspiration behind the book I'm Growing Places

• [29:01] Kendall advises kids who may want to farm and explains her future plans

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Creative storytelling can nurture a passion for farming. It allows young people to express their love for agriculture uniquely. Providing platforms for them to share their interests fosters innovation and engagement.

• It's important to start growing food and embrace the learning journey. Learning becomes an exciting adventure, and as you seek knowledge, you grow in skills and personally. Kendall's passion for agriculture and business is thriving, proving that growth happens in more ways than one.

• Kendall and her family focus on expanding their farm while remaining committed to community engagement. They prioritize local, small-batch, and seasonal agriculture and offer workshops and farm visits to educate others.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

aGROWkulture - Website

I'm Growing Places - Book

Kendall Rae's Green Heart - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

At just nine years old, Kendall Rae Johnson is making history as the youngest certified farmer in the United States and a passionate advocate for urban agriculture, sustainability, and youth entrepreneurship. Inspired by her late great-grandmother's wisdom to "put collard greens back in the dirt," Kendall started gardening on her family's patio porch at three years old. What began as a small backyard garden has become a movement, inspiring young people nationwide to see farming as a pathway to business ownership,

sustainability, and community impact. As the USDA's First Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, Kendall is now leading the USDA's 1890 Land-Grant University Tour, educating students, educators, and local leaders on financial literacy, urban farming practices, and entrepreneurship in agriculture. Through this initiative, she is helping to bridge the gap between urban communities and agricultural opportunities, empowering the next generation of food innovators. Kendall's work has gained national attention, with features on Good Morning America, Ellen, CNN, Nickelodeon News, and

Sesame Street. Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris have recognized her, and in 2023, the state of Georgia honored her with "Kendall Rae Johnson Day" on March 23rd. She is also the author of I'm Growing Places and creator of My Farm Biz, a youth curriculum designed to introduce kids to farming and entrepreneurship.

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta's commitment to early learning, exemplified through its Head Start programs, significantly impacts children and families in the community. Dr. Andria McMichael, a dedicated leader within the organization, shares her excitement about the recent expansion of these programs, designed to provide children with the foundation they need to succeed. From inspiring personal stories, like a nonverbal child beginning to speak after just days in the program, to the call for volunteers and community partnerships, the YMCA is creating lasting community connections that nurture both the minds and hearts of children, preparing them to become the future leaders who will take care of us all.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:12] Dr. McMichael shares how the expansion of the early centers occurred in the YMCA

• [7:49] Dr. McMichael shares some community needs of Richmond County

• [11:15] Community connection and how Hurricane Helene impacted the centers

• [14:11] The Head Start program and the services it provides

• [18:49] The partnership between the Augusta YMCA and the Head Start program

• [21:35] What excites Dr. McMichael about this expansion and an inspiring story

• [24:38] How Y Connect listeners can support these efforts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The YMCA has successfully expanded its early learning programs into Richmond County, opening two new Head Start centers in 2024 and three others launched in November. This expansion was driven by the availability of a federal grant and the need for quality early learning opportunities in the region.

• The response from the Richmond County community has been overwhelmingly positive, with families and teachers excited about the new opportunities after a previous Head Start provider closed. The YMCA's efforts were particularly impactful during Hurricane Helene, providing aid and services to families in need and reinforced the organization's deep connection with the community.

• Dr. McMichael emphasized the importance of conducting a community assessment to align services with local needs, such as addressing the low proficiency rates in math and reading and the high percentage of families qualifying for reduced lunch. The YMCA's Head Start programs aim to provide a solid foundation for children while supporting the broader community through various resources and partnerships.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Head Start Program - Website

Dr. Andria McMichael - Bio

BIOGRAPHY:

Andria McMichael, Ed.D., is the Chief Education Officer for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, leading efforts to provide top-tier early learning programs for children and families. She oversees signature initiatives like Read Right from the Start, STEAM, Start for Life, and Early Learning Readiness across seven counties and 13 centers, focusing on quality, growth, and partnerships. Before joining the Y in 2019, Andria held leadership roles in Fairfax County Public Schools, Imagine Schools, and the University of the District of Columbia. She began her career in DeKalb County Schools and SCITREK. A Spelman College graduate, she holds advanced degrees and certifications from Central Michigan University, Georgia State, Harvard, and Argosy University.

Y Connect is thrilled to welcome Gene Kansas—a cultural developer, historic preservationist, and now the author of the powerful new book, Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta's National Treasure.

After meeting Gene a few months ago, we quickly realized there's a tremendous connection between the work he's been doing through Constellations in the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, the vision of his book, and the YMCA's mission to empower youth and build stronger communities. Civil Sights isn't just a history of Sweet Auburn—it's a call to action to preserve the places and stories that have shaped movements and lives, including here in Atlanta.

Today, we'll dive into the inspiring stories in Civil Sights, explore the YMCA's historic ties to Sweet Auburn, and discuss how we can all contribute to preserving history while creating opportunities for the future. Gene, welcome to Y Connect! We're so excited to have you here.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [5:21] Sweet Auburn's historical significance

• [10:53] The YMCA's role in Sweet Auburn

• [14:13] Gene reads an excerpt from his book

• [17:23] Why preservation goes beyond buildings

• [24:51] The unsung heroes of Sweet Auburn

• [31:00] Getting involved in historical preservation

• [36:31] Details of Gene's book launch events in February

• [38:58] Gene sheds insight on the importance of learning from history

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Butler Street YMCA's historical significance in Sweet Auburn is profound, serving as a cornerstone for black commerce and culture. It was a hub where influential leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Maynard Jackson Jr. gathered, fostering civic engagement and social change. This legacy underscores the YMCA's pivotal role in shaping community dynamics and advancing civil rights.

• Preservation extends beyond saving buildings; it's about safeguarding stories and traditions. Through storytelling, we connect with history, ensuring that the lessons of the past inform our future. This approach to preservation emphasizes the importance of community narratives, highlighting unsung heroes and fostering a deeper understanding of cultural heritage.

• Gene's vision for Sweet Auburn involves a blend of historic preservation and contemporary development. By integrating new, responsible projects with the rich history of the area, we can create vibrant, engaging spaces that honor the past while embracing the future. This balance is crucial for maintaining the neighborhood's cultural significance and ensuring its continued relevance.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Civil Sights: Sweet Auburn, A Journey Through Atlanta's National Treasure

Gene Kansas LinkedIn

BIO:

Inspired by a vibrant, culturally rich upbringing in New Orleans, Gene Kansas has established himself as a visionary champion of historic preservation, adaptive reuse, community building, and storytelling through the built environment. Each Gene Kansas project masterfully blends an appreciation of culture and history with creative, responsible, and vital refashioning, bringing new relevance to space and how it is used and enjoyed. An award-winning historic preservationist and real estate developer, Gene leads with passion and purpose, combining bold, forward-thinking vision with a mindset of giving back. At Gene Kansas | Commercial Real Estate, Gene and team focus on building up history, not over it. Gene is also Founder of Constellations, a thoughtful and supportive, culturally based workspace in Atlanta's historic Sweet Auburn neighborhood focused on civic and social difference-making. Gene is the author of Civil Sights (University of Georgia Press, February 2025), and has been published in the AJC, Atlanta Magazine, Atlanta Business Chronicle, and numerous other publications. As creator and host of award-winning Sidewalk Radio, Gene explored life in the modern city through the lens of history and the context of community on Atlanta's AM 1690 "Voice of the Arts."

Today, we're diving into an incredible initiative that's changing lives: the Y's Boys and Young Men of Color strategy and the impact of the REACH program. Joining us are two extraordinary leaders making this work possible. Monteil Weeks, Group Vice President and Executive Director of the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA, and Michael Levesque, Executive Director of the Morehouse College National Alumni Association, have combined their expertise and passion to create the REACH program. This program connects young men of color at the Y with mentors from Morehouse College, providing them with invaluable guidance, college exposure, and the tools to build bright futures.

We'll explore the origins of REACH, the partnership between the YMCA and Morehouse College, and how this innovative program addresses critical challenges while fostering a sense of brotherhood and purpose.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:29] The strategy and goals behind Boys and Young Men of Color and the partnership with Morehouse College National Alumni Association's Reach program

• [16:37] Monteil shares a story of a changed life

• [25:52] Discussion of the success of the programs has overcome stereotypes of boys and young men of color

• [33:19] Mentorship between college students and youth

• [41:19] Discussion of the YMCA's Historic Scholars

• [44:23] Discussion of what success looks like in the REACH program.

• [53:30] How the listener can support these efforts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The YMCA and Morehouse College partnership through the REACH program has been successful, fostering growth, brotherhood, and mentorship for young men of color with a focus on shared missions and long-term support.

• The program emphasizes high expectations and access to resources for young men of color. The program fosters hope and agency in the youth by expecting the highest standards and providing access to cutting-edge technology, knowledgeable mentors, and ample opportunities. This approach not only empowers them but also helps dispel stereotypes.

• The success of the REACH program is measured by its impact on students' life choices, resilience, and confidence. It helps them pursue greater opportunities, embrace failure as growth, and improve communication with their families, all while preparing them for a larger world and showing they belong.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Boys and Young Men of Color

REACH Program

BIOGRAPHIES:

Monteil D. Weeks has been Executive Director of the Andrew and Walter Young Family YMCA since 2020 and Group Vice President for several YMCAs in Metro Atlanta, leading the Boys & Young Men of Color Strategy. She began her YMCA career in 1990 as a tutoring instructor with AmeriCorps and has contributed to developing four YMCAs in the area. Key accomplishments include creating a "welfare to work" program for the City of Atlanta Housing Authority and opening YMCAs in redeveloped mixed-income neighborhoods. A 1990 Spelman College graduate from Brooklyn, Monteil serves on the Jamie Foxx Learn Through Laughter Foundation Board.

Michael Levesque has been the Executive Director of the Morehouse College National Alumni Association since 2018 and co-recipient of the 2018 Alumnus of the Year Award. With over two decades of leadership experience in nonprofit, Fortune 100, and privately held organizations, he has led youth development programs in partnership with schools, agencies, churches, and community groups. Notable collaborations include the Boys and Girls Clubs, NFTE, YMCA, and the University of Chicago. A Detroit native and Kappa Alpha Psi member, Michael credits his family, the Boys and Girls Club of Detroit, and Morehouse College for inspiring his passion for service.

Welcome to a special episode of the (Y) Connect podcast as we celebrate two incredible years of storytelling, community impact, and meaningful conversations. In this episode, your hosts, Allison, Robert, and Zarinah, take a fun and heartfelt look back at the journey of (Y) Connect, sharing memorable moments, behind-the-scenes stories, and personal reflections.

And speaking of memorable moments... you're in for a treat! Robert showcases his incredible singing voice once again — a callback to the very first episode two years ago. Get ready for laughter, inspiration, and a walk down memory lane as we reflect on two years of connecting, learning, and growing together at the Y.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:59] How the podcast began, and the hosts discuss meaningful episodes

• [4:36] Zarinah reveals which episodes left a lasting impact on her this year: Ep. 53 - Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners and Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

• [6:30] Allison gives a deeper look into Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

• [8:31] Robert shares the episodes that showed him an unexpected story or an insightful perspective: Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y and Ep. 41 - Building Community Through Fitness at the Y

• [14:37] An episode that represents strength and resilience: Ep. 36 - A Multi-Generational Dive into Swim Lessons

• [16:19] The hosts shared moments when they met, their comradery, and Robert sings a stanza of Amazing Grace

• [21:00] Zarinah reflects on Ep. 54 - Philanthropy in Action and Ep. 44 - Facing Forsyth County's Past & Honoring Its Descendants, and other moving episodes

• [25:10] Looking forward to other episodes to feature in 2025

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Community stories create lasting impact. The podcast reflects on episodes like Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners and Building Community Through Fitness at the Y, highlighting how the Y fosters community, fitness and resilience. These stories showcase the transformative power of shared experiences in strengthening bonds across diverse groups.

• The hosts' camaraderie is evident as they share behind-the-scenes moments and personal insights, such as Robert's heartfelt rendition of Amazing Grace. This reflects the deeper, personal connections the podcast has cultivated between the team and its audience over the past two years.

• Episodes like Ep. 44 - Facing Forsyth County's Past & Honoring Its Descendants demonstrate the Y's commitment to addressing history while promoting healing and progress. The discussion about upcoming episodes in 2025 reveals a forward-thinking vision to continue highlighting impactful stories that inspire growth and inclusion.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Ep. 53 - Running Strong: The Legacy of South Fulton Running Partners

Ep. 39 - Diving in With the Mermaids at the Y

Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y

Ep. 41 - Building Community Through Fitness at the Y

Ep. 36 - A Multi-Generational Dive into Swim Lessons

Ep. 54 - Philanthropy in Action

Ep. 44 - Facing Forsyth's Past and Honoring Its Descendants

Today, we are thrilled to introduce you to one of the newest leaders in our organization, Veronica Squires, our Chief Philanthropy Officer. Veronica joined the Y in June, bringing her nearly two decades of experience in Atlanta's nonprofit community. She has held leadership roles at esteemed organizations such as Posse Atlanta, The Good Samaritan Health Center, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. Her extensive background, combined with her Executive MBA from Emory University's Goizueta Business School, equips her to advance the Y's mission significantly. As Chief Philanthropy Officer, Veronica is focused on growing philanthropic revenue to ensure more families can experience the life-changing opportunities the Y provides. Beyond her professional expertise, Veronica is also a published author, having written How Neighborhoods Make Us Sick: Restoring Health and Wellness in Our Communities, a compelling exploration of how we can work together to build healthier, more equitable neighborhoods.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:25] Why Veronica accepted the position of Chief Philanthropy Officer

• [8:52] Why did Veronica have an interest in fundraising for the Y

• [9:32] What stands out about the Y's mission in serving the community

• [12:01] How philanthropy is presented to donors

• [14:59] A discussion on Veronica's book How Neighborhoods Make Us Sick: Restoring Health and Wellness in Our Communities

• [22:02] Tis the season for philanthropy towards the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Y's mission combines consistency across branches with unique customization to meet each community's needs, creating spaces where individuals of all ages can thrive

• The Y exemplifies how philanthropy and community go hand in hand by driving meaningful transformation at the neighborhood level. As highlighted in How Neighborhoods Make Us Sick, real change requires responsiveness to each community's unique needs, combined with a team's collective efforts. The Y's longstanding mission to strengthen communities demonstrates that community health, equity, and empowerment thrive through collaboration and the infrastructure of a dedicated organization, making it a powerful force for good

• Philanthropy plays a vital role in supporting the Y's mission to strengthen communities, and every contribution, regardless of size, has an impact. While the Y is a large organization, it relies on an army of faithful small donors whose collective generosity fuels its mission work. Even a modest gift can make a meaningful difference this holiday season, demonstrating that philanthropy is not just about large institutional giving but also about the power of individuals coming together to create change

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

How Neighborhoods Make Us Sick - Book

BIOGRAPHY:

Veronica Squires, an executive MBA from Emory's Goizueta Business School, joins the YMCA of Metro Atlanta as its Chief Philanthropy Officer. She has nearly 20 years of experience in Atlanta's non-profit community, holding leadership positions at Posse Atlanta, The Good Samaritan Health Center, and Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta. In her new role, she will grow philanthropic revenue so that even more families can belong there.

Today on (Y) Connect, we're thrilled to highlight the story of a community rooted in strength, endurance, and an unwavering commitment to health and wellness. Joining us is Monte Fowler, a veteran member of the South Fulton Running Partners—the nation's oldest Black recreation running group. For decades, this remarkable group has shared a deep connection with the Andrew & Walter Young Family YMCA, fostering a space where individuals unite to run and uplift one another. Monte brings a unique perspective as someone who grew up at the Y served on the YMCA board, and has dedicated years to this running community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:42] Monte' shares how he began his journey at the Y

• [6:21] Why Monte' joined the South Fulton Running Partners and its legacy

• [11:05] How the Y has played a supporting role to the Partners and the community and the Y's contribution to wellness

• [18:37] Why the Y is unique to community wellness

• [20:24] Advice to anyone interested in joining the Running Partners and what to expect

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Running offers more than physical fitness—it fosters lifelong health, builds discipline, and creates a supportive community. By embracing running, individuals can defy age-related health declines, find mentorship, and discover the "fountain of youth" through sweat, commitment, and connection

• The South Fulton Running Partners is a community of role models who embody service, mentorship, and giving back. Leaders like Bob Holmes and William and Lou Stanley showcase the impact of discipline and community, offering life-changing mentorship and inspiring purpose and integrity

• The YMCA in Atlanta is more than a gym—it's a pillar of holistic community building, nurturing physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being. The running partners have exemplified this ethos for over four decades, forming a family bound by shared values. The Y teaches fitness, fosters lifelong relationships, and supports members through every stage of life. It's a place to grow, thrive, and find a true community

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHY:

Monte' Fowler is a long-standing Y and South Fulton Running Partners member and a seasoned professional with 23+ years in product management, technology, and consulting. As a Product Manager at Cox Communications, he oversees a $300M+ product portfolio and has launched innovative tools, earning the 2021 Synergy Award and multiple PIL awards.

Dedicated to community service, Monte' has served on boards for Cascade Elementary, Beecher Hills Elementary, the Center for Working Families, and the YMCA. He has also directed the Sickle Cell Foundation of Georgia's largest fundraiser.

Monte' holds an Executive MBA from Georgia Tech, a B.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, and certifications in AI and Lean Six Sigma. His expertise in technology and passion for service make him an outstanding podcast guest.

Today on the Y Connect Podcast, we are discussing a powerful story of community partnership between the Carl E. Sanders at Buckhead Family YMCA and the Boyce L. Ansley School, an afterschool enrichment program designed to support students facing challenging life circumstances, including homelessness, economic hardship, or unforeseen setbacks.

Joining us are three key figures in this initiative: Jared Guyer, Executive Director of the Buckhead Y; Ray James, Head of School at Boyce Ansley; and Rachael Barron, a Y board member and CEO of Effective Students, to share insights on the program's structure, its impact on students and families, and the importance of community support. This episode underscores the transformative power of collaboration and the need for ongoing community engagement and advocacy. Join today's enriching conversation and to learn more about how you can support this life-changing initiative.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:35] Robert introduces the partnership between the Buckhead YMCA and Boyce L. Ansley School and the inspiration behind the collaboration

• [6:31] Ray outlines the school's goal of eradicating generational poverty through education, mentorship, and providing essential supplies and services to their students

• [12:12] Jared discusses how the program is funded through community support and fundraising efforts. Rachel shares insights on the board's innovative responsibilities and the importance of community needs

• [16:42] How the program's structure best impacts the students and their families

• [20:21] Jared explains the importance of volunteers and collaboration between organizations for effective community support, highlighting the significance of being curious and committed in community engagement efforts

• [27:26] The Ansley School and the unique services and support it offers creates an impact students and their families as well as the staff and volunteers working with students

• [29:55] Encouraging community support and awareness for the Ansley School's mission and services

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Y and the The Ansley School Alliance are committed to eradicating generational poverty through education by utilizing community mentorship, enriching activities, and the comprehensive structure of the after-school program

• The afterschool program doesn't just benefit the students that attend the program, it has also made positive impacts on their families and the mentors that volunteer

• The Ansley School Alliance is a life-changing resource that supports families experiencing economic hardship, homelessness, education barriers, medical setbacks, and so much more. The school is 100% tuition free, which means it relies solely on community support, volunteers, donations, and word of mouth to spread awareness of the growing need for similar programs in the community

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Carl E. Sanders at Buckhead Family YMCA

Boyce L. Ansley School-Website

BIOGRAPHIES:

Jared Guyer, Executive Director of the Carl E. Sanders at Buckhead Family YMCA is a results-driven, community-minded executive with more than 10 years of experience in leadership development, partnership development, facility and program operations, customer experience, strategic communications, and community engagement.

Jared has been a leader in a variety of Ys throughout the movement. In addition to working for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, he led youth, family and membership programs for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA as well as serving as the Executive Director of the YMCA of South Hampton Roads in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Adept at fostering a cohesive culture across diverse stakeholders, including team members, community members, and external partners, Jared has a proven and successful track record of collaborating with non-profits, educational institutions, and other service providers to address community needs.

Rachael Barron, Y Board Member

A graduate of Emory University, Rachael has spent her professional career coaching and solving complex educational problems. From applying problem solving and vision casting skills in the business environment through applying these principles to the education realm, she excels at helping individual students and families find educational success. Prior to founding Effective Students, Rachael solved complex educational problems in her role as an educational advocate mastering the maze of finding solutions for families within Georgia's public and private schools, helping the most difficult learners find success.

Over her five year tenure on the board at the Carl E. Sanders YMCA Board, Rachael helped leadership to navigate the pandemic, expand the offerings of the After School Enrichment program and later to expand the breadth of services to the community specifically serving individuals with disabilities and other at risk populations with the Ansley School partnership. She is a graduate of the Leadership Cobb class of 2024.

Rachael now spends her time at Effective Students leading a team of executive function coaches to better serve children, young adults, and families who are focused on success.

Ray James, Head of School of the Ansley School

Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Ray is a critically conscious and outcomes-driven educational leader. Over nearly 15 years, Ray has held various roles in schools & communities in Baton Rouge, LA, Atlanta, GA, and Newark, NJ including substitute teacher, graduate assistant, literacy teacher, educational policy fellow, instructional coach, education community organizer, curriculum auditor, assistant principal, adjunct professor, and educational consultant. His undergraduate and master's degrees are from LSU (Geaux Tigers!) and outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their 2 young daughters and relishes victories for the Los Angeles Lakers, LSU Tigers, and the culture (politics, hip hop, etc.). Ray firmly believes in the limitless potential & power of all children and knows they will be the leaders of their revolution- now and later. As a second-year Head of School, Ray looks forward to being a good steward of all and continuing to co-create most optimal conditions that Ansley School students, families, staff, and community deserve, and so much more.