MY WINDOW ON THE WORLD: THE THINGS I SEE

By Julie Callaway, Senior Wellness Director Floyd County YMCA

My name is Julie Callaway and I am the senior wellness director at the Floyd County YMCA. I have been with the YMCA for 11 years and spent a majority of my career at the Clark County branch before Floyd County opened. During that time I was able to see how many people’s lives have been impacted through our programs and services.

In November of 2008, the Floyd County YMCA opened and I had the opportunity to be a part of this exciting time for the Y and the community. Everyone joked that I had the best office in the building because of the beautiful view, but I have come to realize it’s the best office for another reason. I get a different view because I get to see our mission at work each day. My office sits on the second floor and I have an entire wall of windows that overlooks our atrium and all the people that come and go. So, what do I see…?

I see a young child coming in to take her first set of swim lessons, all dressed up in her suit with her parents, not far behind, carrying a video camera ready to catch it all on tape.

I see a blind person coming in to use our indoor track because it’s safe and easy to navigate.

I see a new mom bringing in the baby, to stay in our child watch area, so that she can have some adult time and work on getting back to her pre-baby body.

I see a single dad bringing in his three children so they can play in the gym together.

I see a young, overweight boy come in to play in the XRKade, walk the track and participate in the youth fitness program, because he knows how important it is to lose some weight.

I see the high school athlete who lifts weights to stay in shape during the off-season.

I see an older gentleman coming in to perform his calisthenics and shoot a few hoops so he can try to recapture his youth.

I see a little ballerina twirl through the door showing off her new pink tutu she has on for her ballet class.

I see a group of teens come in ready to spend the evening at the Y for teen night.

I see 60 third graders come in to swim, climb the rock wall and take a nutrition class for their school fieldtrip.

I see a group of executives come in for a day of team building.

I see a family who thought they were going to have to give up their membership because dad lost his job, but instead they were able to keep it because of a scholarship provided by our Strong Kids Campaign.

I see a lady with a walker come in to use our warm water therapy pool because she’s able to walk without it in the pool.

I see a married couple walk in to take a group exercise class together.

I see wheelchair bound folks coming in to use our strength and cardio equipment because it is wheelchair accessible.

I see nearby workers come in for a quick 45 minute lunch time workout and stress reliever.

I see 10 kids come in, each one carrying a gift, excited to celebrate their friends 8th birthday.

I see my mom meeting new friends, doing water aerobic classes and trying to find a way to move on with her life after losing my dad.

I see a community, so full of diversity, coming together in this great building full of so many opportunities for all.

Even after 11 years I continue to see how important the YMCA’s work is to our community. We are continually changing with the times to meet the ongoing needs of our community. Maybe one day I’ll see you walk through our doors. I’d love to meet you and find out what a difference we can make in you and your family’s lives.