Today's Pathway to the (Y) is focused on Andrew Saltzman, Executive Vice President & Chief Revenue Officer of State Farm Arena and the Atlanta Hawks. Andrew's Y story was first influenced by his father, and later in life as he made Atlanta his home, Andrew's journey in community outreach brought him to the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. Don't miss this exciting Pathway to the (Y).

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [0:56] Andrew Saltzman shares how his father connected him to the Y after suffering from heart disease.

• [1:45] Because his father was a dedicated member, Andrew spent much of his teenage years at the Y.

• [2:20] When Andrew went to college, he lost his connection to the community at the Y. He found it again when he toured the Villages at Carver YMCA.

• [3:20] Andrew became involved with the Y very quickly through committees and his focus to better the community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Andrew Saltzman's connection to the Y is deeply rooted in his family.

• Despite losing his connection to the Y, Andrew returned to the Y when he decided that Atlanta was his home.

• From his very first tour, Andrew knew that the Villages at Carver YMCA was a program that he wanted to be a part of.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

Whether you're a die-hard basketball fan, a dedicated Y supporter, or just someone who loves hearing about the positive impact sports can have on our community, you won't want to miss this episode. The YMCA of Metro Atlanta and the Atlanta Hawks have teamed up in an incredible jersey patch partnership that will bring positive change to our community and take the game to a whole new level. Joining us to share the exciting details are Andrew Saltzman, EVP & Chief Revenue Officer of State Farm Arena and the Atlanta Hawks, who also serves on the Y's Board of Directors, YMCA of Metro Atlanta CEO/President Lauren Koontz and the Y's Chief Experience Officer Kristin McEwen.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:34] Kristin McEwen and Andrew Saltzman explain how the partnership between the Y and the Atlanta Hawks was conceived.

• [8:21] Lauren Koontz explains what it means to have the Y's logo on the Atlanta Hawks jerseys.

• [10:34] Andrew talks about the Atlanta Hawks's commitment to the community.

• [21:49] Andrew discusses the genesis of the patch on sports uniforms. Lauren believes this will be the most significant marketing campaign the Y has ever launched and the benefits of the Atlanta Y.

• [30:55] Andrew and Lauren share the Hawks theme for the activities that are expected as a result of this partnership, and they discuss the global impact.

• [39:45] Lauren and Andrew share how listeners can get involved to support the partnership.

• [44:16] Andrew shares his Y story.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [8:10] The Atlanta Hawks and the Atlanta YMCA are both focused on helping and supporting the community, so this partnership is a great opportunity to expand their impact and reach.

• [10:27] Andrew believes that community is an integral thread throughout their company and team. The Atlanta Hawks have core values supporting the community, making Atlanta a better place to live.

• [23:01] When the Hawks play in other cities, thousands of fans will see the Y logo, not just fans in Atlanta.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

Andrew Saltzman - Bio

Lauren Koontz - Bio

Kristin McEwen - Bio

BIOGRAPHIES:

Andrew Saltzman Bio

Lauren Koontz Bio

Kristin McEwen Bio

Today's Pathway to the (Y) is a little different as our hosts, Zarinah, Robert, and Allison celebrate (Y) Connect turning one. Today, they share their takeaways or lessons learned from hosting (Y) Connect that has influenced their roles within the YMCA and broader community. Tune in to be inspired by our hosts and get an inside peek into what goes on behind the scenes and the rippling impacts of this podcast!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Zarinah Winston shares how hosting the (Y) Connect podcast has helped make her more intentional when in conversations with people because she sees the value in connecting with those around her.

• Robert Wright believes that (Y) Connect has given him a voice and a platform to express himself. Robert shares that (Y) Connect has given him more exposure to what's beyond his immediate community and ways he can support the community beyond his immediate YMCA branches.

• Allison Toller's experience as the "behind the scenes" person of Y Connect has really opened her eyes. She shares that she has been humbled by what the (Y) is and how many people across metro Atlanta they get to impact every day and how extraordinary (Y) employees are.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The many branches of YMCA create opportunities within their communities, but also within the company itself. Neighboring branches of YMCA work together to provide resources and opportunities to its members.

• Everytime you walk into a YMCA facility, there are opportunities to meet unique individuals with fascinating and inspiring stories, sometimes it just takes a conversation to connect with one another.

• The hosts of (Y) Connect volunteer their time and energy to host the podcast, because they truly believe in their mission to share the stories of their communities. They host the podcast because they believe it matters.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

It's been one year since the (Y) Connect Podcast was launched, and what a year of sharing powerful stories of how the YMCA impacts the lives of so many people across metro Atlanta. Join the co-hosts, Robert, Zarinah, and Allison as they reflect on some of the most memorable stories of resilience, determination, belonging, advocacy, and impact.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:04] Zarinah shares how Oliver, from episode 18: A 7-Year-Old and His Y Heroes, left a lasting impression on her.

• [6:41] Robert shares his most impactful episode was episode 27: Empowering the Futures of Boys & Young Men of Color.

• [10:17] Zarinah reflects on episode 25: Creating a Community of Volunteers, which embodies many of the missions and values of the Y.

• [12:13] Allison discusses episodes that reflect resilience and determination on the part of members of the Y.

• [16:07] The hosts discuss behind the scene moments from the year.

• [20:18] Zarinah reveals how episode 12: My Y, My Community taught her something new, which she still practices in her life to this day.

• [22:35] Allison discusses the episode she believes amplified a vital message that needs more public awareness. Episode 24: Celebrating Exceptional People, which discusses people with disabilities and the book Spark Acceptance.

• [24:39] Zarinah and Robert share topics and guests they would like to see this coming year.

• [29:55] The hosts share their personal takeaways that they have learned from hosting the podcast and how the podcast has influenced their roles within the YMCA and in the broader community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [11:56] Each episode of Y Connect captures the spirit of resilience and determination in different ways, which leave a lasting impact.

• [25:18] You never know who you are going to meet when you walk into a Y. There are so many unique individuals with different backgrounds and life experiences that come to the Y, creating the opportunity for conversations and connections if we take the time to get to know one another.

• [32:46] The Y Connect Podcast's mission is to bring to light the stories of the Y members, and Y volunteers, and various Y programs or strategies that happen at the Y or because of the Y and their impact on their communities.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

On today's Pathway to the (Y), Jamie Glenn and Devlin Anglin share how they became involved with the YMCA. Though their stories are different, they both bring unique perspectives on the impact of the Y and its programs. Tune in to hear their authentic stories.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Jamie shares his Y story, which began at the age of four in California. Jamie discovered the sense of teamwork and friendship when playing on the L.A. Sparks.

• Jamie overcame a great fear of water with the guidance and support of Y Staff. It's these qualities that inspired Jamie to do the same for others.

• Devlin shares why he didn't have an authentic Y youth experience. This is one of the many reasons Devlin is so passionate about pushing young Y members to have authentic youth experiences with the resources available to them through the Y.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Summer youth programs, though not year round, can still have a profound impact on participants.

• Important life lessons such as working together as a team, finding passion through sports, and creating community can be learned through activities at the Y.

• It is important to provide unique and impactful experiences to youth of all races. Devlin believes this is especially important to youth who are not exposed to things such as summer camp, water sports, or outdoor activities.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

Statistics tell us boys and young men of color are twice as likely to grow up in poverty. They are more likely to live in neighborhoods of concentrated poverty, and they are more likely to fall into poverty as adults, regardless of background. Since 2018, the YMCA has been working to change these statistics and narratives.

Through the Boys and Young Men of Color strategy, Ys provide safe spaces for young leaders to express themselves, nurture their unique identities, and learn important life skills. Devlin Anglin and Jamie Glenn are joining us to share the impact of this work.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:07] Devin describes the mission of the Boys and Young Men of Color National Strategy and the leadership component.

• [7:38] The hosts show a video of youth whom this strategy has impacted.

• [12:27] Jamie speaks about how to create a supportive and inclusive environment.

• [17:49] Jamie gives examples of success stories in the greater Atlanta area, and Devin shares a success story of a young man whose character was changed and the advice Devin received from his father.

• [29:19] Jamie discusses the Black Man's Lab that provides life skills, and Devin adds that their strategy is the wrap-around care that is needed.

• [33:34] How can young boys get involved in this program, and what should the parent's involvement be?

• [37:22] Jamie and Devin share how their involvement in this program has given back to them.

• [43:48] Jamie and Devin share their first experience with the Y.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [7:42] The Boys and Young Men of Color National Strategy has changed the participants' lives in many ways.

• [14:30] Addressing the racial disparities and systemic issues are a significant part of this work. The Strategy is unique, because it is not a typical grant program. So when the Boys and Young Men of Color Strategy is addressing racial equity and equity as a whole, they are addressing the system and how the system is serving boys and young men of color.

• [18:43] There's not a rigid structure or schedule that the counselors adhere to because they want to take advantage of opportunities that present themselves. Support and mentorship provided in genuine moments truly make the Strategy's impact much deeper.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YouTube Video

Boys and Young Men of Color - Website

Today, we have the privilege of sharing the Pathway stories of Membership Experience Director of the Robert D. Fowler Family Y, Robert Wilson and one of our newest Y Classics Club members, Lorraine Pousman. Tune in to today's episode to learn how the Y Classics Club connected Robert and Lorraine to their community in unexpected ways.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Robert shares his first connection with the Y when he moved to a city where he didn't know anyone, but made lifelong connections at the Y.

• Robert shares how the Y Classics Club has impacted the seniors that he works with, who have impacted his life.

• After she retired from corporate America, Lorraine wanted to find something to do. She was hired at the Y and was a part of the team for twenty years!

• Lorraine shares how her front desk position at the Y connected her with others in her community.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Whether you are in college, or in your golden years, working at the Y brings you closer to your community in many unexpected ways.

• The Y Classics Club has a lot of exciting programs to engage its members and Robert's goal is to build meaningful connections through the programs.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

Today, we have the privilege of sharing a new chapter of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta story. The Y has launched the Y Classics Club celebrating the vitality of life's golden years. The Y Classics club lifts up the lives of members who have turned 90 years young by providing them with a lifetime membership to our Y.

Sharing the significance of the newly established Y Classics Club, is Membership Experience Director of the Robert D. Fowler Family Y Robert Wilson and one of our newest Y Classics Club members, Lorraine Pousman.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [1:46] Robert introduces the new chapter of the YMCA Atlanta, the Y Classics Club.

• [3:10] Lorraine describes how she heard she was a member for life.

• [7:40] Robert tells why he loves visiting with Lorraine.

• [8:43] Lorraine shares what she tells people about the Y Classic Membership and discusses a health decision she made.

• [11:16] Robert talks about Lorraine and Life Long Learners.

• [12:43] Lorraine shares her memories and the various programs she participates in.

• [16:32] Robert discusses what Lorraine has taught him.

• [18:25] The panelists share their Y stories.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [5:12] You are never too old to join the YMCA.

• [9:54] Eat well and exercise to be healthy inside and out.

• [12:02] The Lifelong Learners group at the Y offers various activities for senior adults.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

On today's Pathway to the (Y), we are joined by Gayle Battersby, the Community Engagement Director of the McCleskey Family Y and two amazing Y volunteers, Kim Harrison and Chris Hartley. Together they share their Pathway to the (Y) and how even though they've been members for different amounts of years, the YMCA has played a big part in each of their lives.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• Gayle shares how she became involved with the YMCA in 1977 and all of the different roles she's had throughout the years.

• Kim's Y story started later in life, but is still evolving.

• Chris's athletic grandfather helped start her Y story, as he had her involved in the program at a young age.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Whether you've been a member for forty years, or you just joined yesterday, the YMCA has many programs and opportunities available for everyone to become more involved in their community.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

BIOGRAPHIES: Gayle Battersby - Kim Harrison - Chris Hartley

Since 1858, the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has been serving the ever-changing needs of our community. While the community's needs have changed during the last 165 years, what hasn't changed is the fundamental impact of our volunteers.

One of the most remarkable examples of this happens every week in Cobb County. A core group of volunteers led by Gayle Battersby, Community Engagement Director of the McCleskey Family YMCA, brings groceries and resources to more than 700 families weekly at various locations, including schools, churches, and residential facilities. Joining us today to share the power of this work is Gayle, a veteran leader at the Y for more than 40 years and, in 2022, was named by Y-USA an Anti-Hunger All-Star throughout the Y movement. Joining Gayle are two key volunteers.

Kim Harrison was a teacher for 30 years. After retiring, she joined the McCleskey Family YMCA Community Engagement Board. Since that time, she has been instrumental in spearheading food insecurity work at two Cobb County Elementary Schools–Brumby Elementary and Sawyer Road Elementary.

Along with Kim is Chris Hartley, owner and executive producer of Angelfish Productions. Chris is also a member of the McCleskey Family YMCA Community Engagement Board. She is an Emmy-award-winning producer who believes in the power of asking the right questions to bring an idea to life. She has over 20 years of experience, including network and public television, animation and live-action production, studio management and running her own business. Combining her professional talents with her role as a volunteer, Chris has produced many videos capturing the work of the McCleskey Family Y's community of volunteers.

When the YMCA of Metro Atlanta was first founded in 1858, the operation was solely run by volunteers. Today, 165 years later, volunteers continue to be the backbone of the Y. One of the most remarkable examples of this happens every week in Cobb County. A core group of volunteers led by Gayle Battersby, Community Engagement Director of the McCleskey Family Y, bring groceries and resources to nearly 900 families each week at a variety of locations. Joining Gayle are two volunteers Kim Harrison and Chris Hartley, who delve into this remarkable initiative, detailing its execution, and the personal impact volunteering has made on their lives.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [3:37] Gayle describes the scope of what she and her volunteers do on a weekly basis.

• [5:51] Kim shares how she became involved in food distribution through the Y.

• [7:47] Chris explains how she began working in the food distribution program.

• [12:17] Gayle describes how to get involved as a volunteer and why volunteering matters.

• [15:36] Kim relates how this program relieves the school system of the burden of feeding all the children. They have a partner in the Y.

• [16:46] Gayle shares that what she does is a team effort.

• [17:46] Chris discusses the video she created at the Brumby School.

• [22:25] Gayle, Kim and Chris outline the most significant challenges they face as they serve and what is most fulfilling.

• [29:04] The panelists share their Y stories.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The food distribution program could only exist with volunteers. If this episode has touched your heart, contact Gayle and volunteer your time to this worthwhile cause.

• The Y is not just a swim gym. The Y is intricately involved in the community, and food distribution is just one of the ways the Y serves neighborhoods.

• Volunteering doesn't just help the people you begin to serve. It changes who you are. What could be better than that? Why not volunteer at the Y?

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

Gayle Battersby - Facebook

Gayle Battersby - Email

The Y at Brumby Elementary Youtube Video

Chris Hartley - Email