When I was a young mom of two boys, I joined the West Suburban YMCA over 19 years ago, so my sons would have a place to learn to swim and then later to learn soccer and basketball. As my sons got older, I loved that as active middle schoolers I knew they were in a safe place with adults that had a watchful eye. I also knew that they were learning values to last a lifetime - about teamwork, losing with grace and winning without being boastful and meeting other kids from diverse backgrounds. For me, the Y initially became a place to work out, exercise and make friends. But over the years it became so much more!  

The Y’s programs are built around building community and fit in perfectly with my values of giving back to my neighborhood. Volunteering is part of my life, and I have always given to charities that I believe in. I have seen firsthand the work the West Suburban YMCA has done to individuals and struggling families in and around the Newton area. I'm proud to be a long-time donor of the West Suburban YMCA, and I know that my participation has really helped the Y make a difference. Six years ago, I was asked to join the Board of Directors and now I am serving out my two-year term as Chair of the Board. Being a Y donor, volunteering on the Board, and working with such a terrific, dedicated staff and other volunteers has greatly enhanced my connections to the community. It has made my life so much richer as a result. I love being a part of the Y and seeing its growth, but more importantly I value getting to help others benefit from the opportunities the Y has provided for me and my family!