I have been an athlete since I was 6 years old. I started swimming for the National Team in the Dominican Republic when I was 15, and competed as a professional triathlete in two Pan-American Games, two Central American Games, and many international races.
 

I really wanted a place in New York City where I could work, be healthy, and teach people something I love. That’s when I found the YMCA. I started lifeguarding seven years ago and was in the pool teaching swim lessons three months later.
 

I spend most of my time teaching students of all ages and abilities how to swim and be safe in the water. But I’m not just teaching someone how to swim. I’m teaching core values they will have for life. Values that will build their confidence and character, so they can succeed in the real world. I can truly see the impact I make on people, even out of the water.

It’s what’s really special about the Y. We have the opportunity to help everyone who walks through our doors. We can’t always fix their problems, but we give them the boost they need by saying: “We hear you, we’re here to support you through whatever you’re going through.”

Because of that, you really feel like you have a family here.

 

Find Your Way at the Y