Merrimack Valley YMCA
Lora Freeman Williams is a seasoned mental health clinician and expressive arts therapist, currently serving in these roles at AVIV and previously at Volunteers of America of Massachusetts. Additionally, Lora holds the position of Global Community Engagement Lead at Gender Equity and Reconciliation International. Lora has extensive experience as a group exercise instructor at the Merrimack Valley YMCA and as an author, notably of "The Wilderness of Motherhood," a memoir exploring the challenges of single parenting. Educational qualifications include a Master of Arts in Expressive Therapies from Lesley University and various certifications in life coaching, mediation, and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Lora has also contributed to community building through roles such as Minister of Mosaic at Pine Street Church.
Merrimack Valley YMCA
With its headquarters located in Lawrence, Massachusetts, nestled in the heart of the Merrimack Valley, the Merrimack Valley YMCA is represented by the Andover/North Andover YMCA, the Lawrence, the Methuen YMCA, Camp Lawrence, Camp Nokomis on Lake Winnipesaukee, and Day Camp Otter in Salem, New Hampshire. Each of these branches and camps serve the needs of distinct and unique communities, making the Merrimack Valley YMCA an organization rich in cultural, social, and economic diversity. Through quality programs, service, volunteers, and staff, the Merrimack Valley YMCA is constantly working to help make healthier lives achievable for everyone.