Community is Our Cause!

Most recently, I had the opportunity to visit our Overflow Shelter on the west side of Columbus.  During my visit, I spent some time getting to know our staff and to speak with some of the residents at the shelter.

Each night, the doors of the shelter open at 8:00 pm to provide a warm place to 130 men seeking refuge from the streets.  The facility closes each morning at 7:00 am and residents are issued a bus pass to return in the evening when the shelter reopens.  At the 7,000 square foot facility, we offer individuals a warm cot or bunk bed and sometimes a bite to eat when resources are available.  Although not considered lavish by most, we provide simple needs to men who otherwise would not have access to food or shelter.  In speaking with the residents, I couldn't help wishing there was something more we could do in addition to meeting their most basic and immediate needs.  However, I recognize our efforts go a long way to these men on a cold winter night.

In addition to meeting emergency shelter needs, the Y offers Residential Services & Supportive Housing assistance to help our homeless and at-risk-of homeless populations regain their independence.  Recognizing the social impact of homelessness in our communities we provide affordable living, supportive services and the conveniences of home to individuals.  Through our housing initiative, residents receive life skills counseling, health and medical care, as well as links to food and clothing resources in the community.  Additionally, individuals receive employment training, assistance with job searches; résumé building, career development and job readiness to assist them in transitioning back into the work force.

As I reflect on our efforts to reduce homelessness in our community, I am extremely proud to be a part of an association that not only provides vital services, but intentionally focuses on supporting change in the lives of those who need us the most.  In doing so, our efforts truly speak to our core mission to service the whole community through programs expressing Judeo-Christian principles that build a healthy spirit, mind and body.  

The services we provide assist individuals in becoming hopeful, self-sufficient and productive members of our society.  Through our collaboration with other agencies, we are working together to reduce homelessness and to provide an atmosphere where people feel healthy, confident and connected to their community.

Living Our Cause

Maya Angelou once said, "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."  When many people think of the Y, they think of a "swim and gym"  What they may not realize is that the Y is much more to many people.  For nearly 160 years, the YMCA of Central Ohio has been strengthening the foundation of our community.  We don't just simply offer services, we change lives.

The Y is a cause-driven organization committed to nurturing the potential of children and teens, improving the health and well-being for all and fostering social responsibility that create positive, lasting personal and social change.

Since our inception, our association has continued to evolve to meet the needs of adults, children and families within our community.  Along the way, we have empowered them through opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.

The Y is a movement, a powerful association of  diverse men, women and children joined together by a shared passion: our community.  In everything we do, we aspire to be something greater.  What we do is our mission and our cause is community.

I encourage you to reflect on your experiences with the Y and share your stories with us.  We would love to hear how the Y has impacted or changed your life. We also hope that you will continue to join us in the movement!

Yours in Y Spirit,

Andrew A. Roberts

President

YMCA of Central Ohio

Living the Dream

Greetings!

Most recently, I was appointed to serve as the 17th president in the YMCA of Central Ohio's 156-year history.  I am excited to lead the association and humbled to carry on John Bickley's selfless service to the YMCA of Central Ohio and to the Central Ohio community.  

For nearly 160 years, the YMCA of Central Ohio has been a guiding force in the Columbus community. Today, we are 12 branches strong and are even more committed to the children, adults and families who count on the Y.

At the Y, we believe that a community is strengthened when we work to develop the skills, relationships and values that people need to be healthy, confident and connected to others.

Today marks the 83rd Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  At a young age, Dr. King was a member of the Butler Street YMCA in Atlanta, Georgia.  It was at the Y that the seeds of courage were planted. As we embark on the celebration honoring his legacy, we are reminded of our commitment to serve through giving back and supporting our neighbors.  

More than ever, there is a need for volunteers at the Y. Here in Columbus, there is a tremendous need for your help as our youth face increased pressures and families and individuals are confronted with significant economic challenges.

With a new era upon us at the YMCA of Central Ohio, we remain committed to our mission to serve the whole community, focusing on Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility.  In order to fulfill our promise to strengthen the foundation of community, it will take hard work, dedication and YOU.  At the Y we believe in the power of collaboration to effect positive and lasting social change.  

As you reflect on the contributions of Dr. King, we hope that you will be inspired to join us in our cause of strengthening our community.  

To find out how make an impact in your neighborhood, please visit: www.ymcacolumbus.org.

Yours in Y Spirit,

Andrew A. Roberts

President

YMCA of Central Ohio