Satara's Story

My Y story started when someone believed I would be a good fit for the Northside YMCA board. I completed my board member application and would soon learn that the best kept secret in my neighborhood was less than a mile away. How did I not know this? As a new board member, I toured the building, learned about the many programs, became acquainted with the stellar staff and interacted with the youngest stakeholders, the children.

During my tenure as a Board member, it was apparent the Northside YMCA was not just another gym. The Y rebuilds and strengthens communities. It is where young children find safety in learning how to swim and develop emotional or social skills. Teens learn self-awareness and how to motivate others while ensuring accountability for their communities. Adults learn healthier lifestyles. The Y is where staff build rapport with members to help bridge gaps. It is where Y leaders plan, implement and maximize improvement for programming.

I wanted to be all in; however, there is only so much you can do in a day. My dreams were bigger so I created a gift in my will that will help ensure communities continue to thrive well beyond me. I hope I live a long time to see the amazing happenings of the Y. But after my lifetime, my legacy gift will be there to ensure the Y buildings are filled with many legacies of love, laughter, lunches, lots of learning and a lifetime of stories to tell.