Going to the North Orange County YMCA is an important part of my family’s daily schedule. From the cheerful greeting by the front desk staff, to the status reports on my kids’ activities in Kid Zone, our time spent here is very fulfilling. My husband, Rey, and I take many classes together including Body Pump and Zumba. We have gotten to know the instructors very well and they often ask about us if either one of us is sick or not at class.
My kids look forward to going to Kid Zone and never want to leave when it’s time to go. Kelsey is my oldest daughter and she has special needs. The Kid Zone Staff are very patient and caring with her. She has grown tremendously with her social skills and loves to paint-thanks to their encouragement. In addition to reading stories and helping with homework, Kid Zone staff even does face painting for the kids. Kelsey especially enjoys that.
My other daughter, Whitney, and my son, Zachary, have both been taking the Karate classes for about a year. They have since gone from white belts to yellow belt 2 stripes. They are not only learning Karate, but self discipline and how to respect others. I am so thankful that the classes are included in the membership, otherwise, this is something they never would have been able to experience.
Our family is also very involved in the youth basketball program. Both Whitney & Zachary have been playing for over a year and have received many accolades for the skills they have gained, like Sportsmanship and Most Improved Player. My husband has been a volunteer coach with both age groups and has been able to bond with our kids over their love of the game.
All of my kids also went to YMCA Day Camp during the summer. I worried how expensive it was going to be for 3 kids, but luckily the YMCA has special scholarships they can offer to families in need. We were fortunate to receive one of those scholarships. The kids had the best summer ever, going on field trips, swimming at the Y, and making new friends! We often see some of the camp counselors at events and the kids run up to them and give them all hugs.
The North OC YMCA has an outstanding reputation for community outreach. Without any hesitation, Gaby Milan agreed to provide face painting, crafts, snow cones, and popcorn at my kids’ school carnival. The beautiful and talented Malia Ingarta also performed some Polynesian dancing entertainment. I found it rewarding to work along side these two dedicated volunteers.
In my own personal experience, I have gained a Zumba Sisterhood. The instructors are so welcoming and encouraging to students of all different levels. They will often stay after class and show students how to do moves, or just chat. Lots of friendships have been made in those classes. I always knew the YMCA staff and YMCA members were great people to be around, but it was not until I needed surgery, did I find out just how special everyone is. Lori Maier, the original Zumba instructor, and Lizzette, a friend from Zumba class, formed a support group for me and established a website so people could bring my family meals and wish me well during this stressful time. Words alone cannot fully express how thankful I am for this act of kindness. It gives us comfort knowing that everyone always looks out for each other through sickness and in health.
Being members of the YMCA has helped my family grow closer together and gain life long friendships. We especially enjoy the family events like Family Movie Nights, Trick or Treating, Parents Night Out, and Dinner with Santa. We are so proud to call the North Orange County YMCA our home away from home and the staff our extended family. Thank you for providing my family with an all around healthy lifestyle change!
