Melissa Gatton

Youth Development: Our Y is committed to nuturing the potential of every child and teen. We believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to discover who they are and what they can achieve. That’s why we help young people cultivate the values, skills, and relationshipsthat lead to positive behaviors, better health, and educational achievement. Our Y Programs such as Camp Ironwood, Hype Camp, S.O.A.R., Adventure Kids, Mini Explorers Camp, Pre-School Play Date, Afterschool, ChildWatch, and Y on Wheels offer a range of experiences that enrich cognitive, social, physical, and emotional growth. Expenses include sudsidies and direct financial assistance that make participation possible for 61% of the young people we engage. Healthy Living: The Y is a leading voice on health and well-being. We bring families closer together, encourage good health, and foster connections through wellness, outdoor recreation, fun, and shared interests. This is accomplished through programs like our Group Exercise classes, the Y’s Diabetes Prevention Programs, Parkinson’s Cycling and support groups, and Healthy Kids Day. As a result, more than 23,000 people in our community have access to the support, guidance, and resources they need to achieve greater health in spirit, mind, and body. This is particularly important as our nation struggles with a mental health and obesity crisis, families struggle with work/life balance, and individuals search for personal fulfillment. Our programs are accessible, affordable, and open to all faiths and backgrounds. Social Responsibility: Our Y believes in giving back and supporting our neighbors. We have been listening and responding to our community’s most critical social needs for more than 35 years. Y volunteers assist with events at the Y and also with our Youth Feeding Program that serves an afternoon meal to 300 children ages 18 and younger. They work to support programs that empower our neighbors to affect change.