The Childress Klein YMCA means something different to each person who experiences the YMCA.
To a 2nd grader, it is learning to read at the same level as a peer through participation in the Starfish Academy To an adult who is not fluent in English, it is an opportunity to gain English language skills and enhance opportunities for employment and independence To others it is a great workout before or after work and the opportunity to socialize and make new friends!
To me it is the opportunity to be on the board of managers of an organization focused on the community and ever ready to respond to changing needs.       One such example is when companies began to downsize. The Childress Klein YMCA did not respond by turning members away who experienced job loss but encouraged them to stay and offered financial assistance.  They waived joining fees, thereby making the YMCA more affordable for new members. The Childress Klein YMCA also offered a career seminar to assist community members with job search skills such as interviewing and resume writing. When an organization gives this much to the community and members it serves, it makes me want to respond by giving back to it!  It is an awesome opportunity to volunteer in an organization where friendships and healthy lifestyles are developed, lives are changed, and people are renewed in spirit, mind and body.    Donna Phillips Childress Klein YMCA Board of Managers