I grew up in Bushwick in Brooklyn, and I now live in Ridgewood, Queens, with my 8-year-old son Nathaniel, and 15-year-old, Orlando. Before the Y came into our lives, I was inconsistently working out at home. And because our neighborhood has few kids that play outside, Orlando and Nathaniel spent most of their time around electronic devices. 

This all changed when we walked through the doors of the Y. Health is now a priority in our household. The Y challenges us not only to be fit, but to continuously step out of our comfort zones. I’ve tried different classes like aerobics and yoga. My absolute favorite class is spin, and Orlando even tried it with me. I’ve also taken a family stretch class with Nathaniel. It's so important to share experiences like that with your children.

Most importantly, Orlando and Nathaniel have both been able to experience the Y in their own way, participating in afterschool programs, summer camp, and more. As a single mom living in New York City, it’s wonderful to know my kids are in a safe, enriching place learning new skills. 

There are many benefits you get when you come to the Y, but the most impactful have been the friendships we’ve formed and the amazing families we’ve met. Now, when we see the Y sign, we see family. We are not only there for our own benefit, but also to support the other families in our community. When people you know ask you how your day has been, you know you're in a place you belong.

FIND YOUR WAY AT THE Y