Family YMCA staffer and young Y client in matching outfits. Courtesy photoSenior Program Director
“There was a need that drew volunteers together to start a Y in Los Alamos in 1955,” Family YMCA CEO Linda Daly said. “The town was isolated; adults and youth needed healthy activities and opportunities to grow in spirit, mind and body. For the vision of these founding volunteers, and the continuing role the community trusts us with, we are grateful.”
In a recent interview, Daly, who has led the nonprofit charitable organization since 1999, reflected on gratitude and the Y’s role in the community.
“Our work is about strengthening the foundations of community, and that means for everyone, even those who can’t afford to pay. The Y is for all. As we launch ourselves into the holiday season, it’s timely to reflect that we have so many reasons to be thankful here at the Y.
“All year long, we’ve benefited greatly by the generous, caring spirit of our members, our board, our staff, our community partners and businesses, our friends and neighbors in the communities we serve. For them we are thankful.
“We are thankful for our partnerships with Los Alamos County, Rio Arriba County and the City of Espanola who partner with us to operate the wonderful resources and supportive environments found in our Los Alamos and Espanola Teen Centers.
“We are thankful for parents who entrust the safe keeping of their children with us,” she said, “and staff that guide and teach their children.
“We are grateful to the Los Alamos Public Schools for their partnership that guarantees we can care for youth in the gyms after school. We are thankful for all our caring staff who work hard to help all ages get healthy and thrive.
“We are thankful for our many donors who recognize our charitable mission and who believe that together we can change lives … we have over 275 youth and adults on assistance and by the end of 2016, we will serve over 8,300 individuals, and thus thousands of families.
“We are thankful that our Y exists here in Northern New Mexico. As we celebrate the past, work even harder in our community in the present, and plan for the future, we hope others will join us in continuing to change lives every day.”
