AYP magazine, October/November 2017 by Association of YMCA Professionals

A publication by the Association of YMCA Professionals

Inspired Leadership for the YMCA Professional Vol. 7 No. 5 Oct/Nov 2017

FEATURE AYP Core Values Stood the Test of Time Page 26

FEATURE EAF: A History of Helping Page 30

journey THE AYP

Pathway to Total Transformation

Congratulations to the newest graduates of the 2015 YMCA/JCC CRI Training Coach program.

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Luke Brookner Matt Sallinen Maureen Wilcox Megan Brazill Melanie VanderHorn Melissa McGlynn Melissa Wright Meredith Frazier Patrick McGahan Peta McMillan Peter Christenson Peter Rana Robyn Cohen Santiago Prada

Sarah Faulkner Seth Hazen Shannon Hughes Sharon Allen Shelley McCarty Stacey Hatch Tim Cedrone Tim Lebling Travis Randle Trevalyn Bell Troy Henrich Valerie Prenzlow Victoria MacKenzie Wade Messner

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“The workshop provides the education and training for our staff to be experts for our communities and members.” Bobbi Wiliams Associate Executive Director Merrimack Valley YMCA

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perspective

Focus on Forward AYP has a history of propelling Y professionals toward the future. When I started with Y-USA almost 10 years ago, I quickly became aware of AYP. My staff and other Y-USA team members, as well as Y staff I was meeting across the country, spoke highly of AYP, the opportunities it offered, and the passionate people they were meeting through the association. I didn’t quite get it until I attended a chapter president’s meeting where I was sharing some of the coming changes in the training and leadership development strategies my team was creating in partnership with local Ys. The meeting had so much positive energy and dedication to the mission and participants from all levels of leadership and sizes of Ys. I knew then that this group was special and I wanted to learn more about it. At the same time, I found it hard to wrap my head around a professional association that was specific to a single organization. The professional associations I knew of, and belonged to, always included people from hundreds or even thousands of organizations, with only one thing in common — their profession. And then I went to my first AYP Regional Conference in Albany, New York. I met Natalie Norton, who shared an inspiring story about how AYP had shaped her career and how the Emergency Assistance Fund helped hundreds of Y staff through challenging circumstances. I observed CEOs like George Rommel participating in panel discussions.

Terri Radcliff Senior Vice President of Talent and Knowledge Management, Y-USA, and AYP Board Member

I saw other leaders from many Ys and different roles leading workshops and breakout sessions. I observed the drive and passion of the conference planning volunteer leaders, the chapter leaders, and all of the AYP members attending the conference. It had a different feeling from those other professional organization events I was used to. I think it was because they all were focused on not only benefiting from the professional and leadership development opportunities provided, but they were doing that in service to the Y so they could have more impact in their community. The foundation was their shared love of the Y. As we all prepare for the transition of AYP to a new, exciting future as the Y Professional Network (YPN), we want to take a moment to reflect. In this issue, our colleagues share some of the history of AYP, the things that make it great, and the things that make it special.

It is from these attributes and the dedication of all of you that YPN has such a strong foundation to propel Y professionals even further forward. Talk to just about anyone who has been involved in AYP for years, and they happily share how it has been one of the more influential contributors to their success in the Y. In AYP, there was always something for everyone, for every level, at every point in their career. A first-year fitness instructor could sit next to a 15-year CEO and both would learn. That — and the opportunities to gain leadership experience by getting involved in AYP leadership — are two of the brightest AYP benefits that we’re committed to retaining as we transition to YPN. That tradition will live on. In the December-January issue of AYP magazine, we’ll discuss more of the exciting opportunities ahead in YPN. When staff can come together to learn, develop, and grow their leadership skills, when they can share their stories of challenges and successes, and when there are opportunities for chapter communities to reinforce the values and the promise of the Y, we will become stronger and more consistent in our cause-centered culture and become better able to deliver on the promise of the brand. That is the tradition of AYP and that is what we will take into the future and beyond.

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 1

The AYP Journey Custom Publishing Services provided by Network Media Partners

Advertising Contact: Holly Klarman hklarman@networkmediapartners.com 410-584-1990 AYP magazine is published bimonthly by the Association of YMCA Professionals.

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got a minute?

memories

©2017 by the Association of YMCA Professionals. All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced without written permission. Address copyright queries to ayp_edit@networkmediapartners.com Statement of fact and opinion are the responsibility of the authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of the officers or members of AYP. AYP magazine connects, inspires, and advances the leaders of the YMCA through an exploration in leadership arts, thereby inciting creativity, strength, and strategic thinking.

50,000 or fewer APEX 2014 Award of Excellence, Magazine, Journal & Tabloid Writing 2013 Award of Excellence, Magapaper & Newspaper Writing 2012 Grand Award, Design and Illustration 2012 Award of Excellence, Design and Illustration 2012 Award of Excellence, Magazine & Journal Writing

2 AYP magazine October/November 2017

Y-Shaped Reflections

women in the y

The AYP Journey As AYP continues evolving, a review of its milestones puts the journey in proper perspective

Core Values Stood the Test of Time

feature A History of Helping AYP’s Emergency Assistance Fund has met the needs of hundreds of Y professionals

It’s About Equity

feature

feature A former AYP national executive director reflects on how AYP’s core values have influenced its contributions to Y professionals across decades

Erin Reuland, Specialist for Teen Programs, YMCA of the USA

AYP’s investment in women is paying off

18 Association Media & Publishing 2017 Silver EXCEL Award, General Excellence 2015 Silver EXCEL Award, General Excellence 2015 Bronze EXCEL Award, Design Excellence 2012 Silver EXCEL Award, Most Improved,

perspective

spirituality Aging Gracefully How we want to age as Y professionals

body, mind, spirit Put your stress to rest, and a quote from Steve Jobs

Great businesses are powered by great people.

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October/November 2017 AYP magazine 3

AYP National Board of Directors Chair Sal Cisneros, Channel Islands YMCA Treasurer Kelly Kay, YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City Secretary Kimberly Moser, Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA Immediate Past Chair Sandy Morander, YMCA of Greater San Antonio Theresa Hillis, Kandiyohi County Area Family YMCA Kim Moser, Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA Tracy Miller, YMCA of Metropolitan Washington Michael Bright, YMWCA of Newark and Vicinity Ted Wenta, YMCA of Snohomish County Craig Heinrichs, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Terri Radcliff, YMCA of the USA Lisa Ramirez, YMCA of Greater San Antonio Ebony Young, YMCA of Greater New York

EAF Board Chair George Romell, YMCA of Greater Rochester Secretary/Treasurer Bob Hastedt, YMCA Retirement Fund Immediate Past Chair Eric Ellsworth, YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Teresa Rogers, Volusia-Flagler YMCA Karen Leslie, YMCA of Greater Providence Rig Riggins, YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh Dick Bennett, Lake County (Ohio) YMCA Krystal Canady, YMCA of Eastern Union County Joan Lovell, YMCA of the USA Jim Havlick, Association of YMCA Retirees Tracy Miller, YMCA of Metropolitan Washington Andy Vamis, YMCA of San Francisco Rob Wilkinson, Kishwaukee Family YMCA Sean Elliot, Philadelphia and Freedom Valley YMCA Alan Hostrup, YMCA of Greater Los Angeles

AYP Editorial Advisory Group Kimberly Moser, Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA Theresa Hillis, Kandiyohi County Area YMCA

AYP Mission The Association of YMCA Professional inspires, connects and empowers Y leaders to achieve personal excellence to support the movement.

AYP Fundamental Principles Innovate, Lead, Support — these guide the AYP focus and Its leadership Data Driven, Defined Outcomes, Relevant, Network Plus — these shape the development, delivery and direction of AYP experiences

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A publication by the Association of YMCA Professionals

Inspired Leadership for the YMCA Professional

Vol. 1 No. 1 Feb/Mar 2011

Vol. 1 No. 3 June/July 2011

Vol. 3 No. 4 Aug/Sept 2013

leadership arts Pay Attention— You Have Lessons to Learn Page 8

worklife balance The Team Approach of Collaborative Thinking Page 10

spirituality leadership arts

Everyone’s Entitled Page 24

Leading in Times of Change. Page 11

worklife balance How—and Why—to Manage Your Online Reputation. Page 13

applied ethics Should volunteers get free Y memberships? Page 24

Meaningful Mentoring

REFLECTING SPIRITU LITY How your principled, caring leadership honors the uniqueness of every member.

How to be somebody’s hero— even when you don’t feel like one.

A NOTE ABOUT AYP MAGAZINE

Celebrate AYP Magazine The multi award-winning AYP magazine has been great a vehicle to share information, educate staff, showcase key vendor partners, and demonstrate our colleagues’ writing talents for many years. As AYP continues to evolve as YPN, a new digital communication strategy will be employed starting in 2018. YPN members can expect monthly e-newsletters with informational and inspiring stories from Y leaders. The shift from the bi-monthly magazine will allow YPN members to have more frequent communication. Members may continue to submit articles for the e-newsletter. The final issue of AYP magazine will be mailed to current AYP members in December 2017. As you read this issue and the final issue to come, let’s celebrate the longstanding relationship between AYP magazine and our publishing team at Network Media Partners — and get excited about what’s ahead with YPN. Please email questions to EvolvingAYP@ymca.net. Robert Lowell Manager, Leadership Certification & Bridge Program Talent & Knowledge Management, YMCA of the USA

A YP Magazine Sunsets with a View of the Future While this issue highlights AYP’s impact on YMCA professionals across decades, the next issue of this magazine introduces AYP’s new identity as YPN, featuring interviews with Y-USA leaders who will shepherd the organization forward. Don’t miss this special edition where you can learn more about what YPN will do for you.

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partner program

AYP Partners support our community The AYP Partner Program is designed to help connect Y professionals with vendors and suppliers that have made a commitment to AYP. AYP Partners want to support the Y movement and provide you and your facility with the best products, services, and solutions. You can find AYP Professional Partners featured in AYP magazine, at www.AYPonline. org, and at AYP events throughout the year. Consider supporting the companies that support your association — just look for the AYP Partner logo.

We make it our business to know your business.

When something happens at your YMCA, it may not be a disaster. But no matter what kind of claim you may have, it’s reassuring to know West Bend will handle it with efficiency, professionalism, and compassion. That’s because we understand your business. When a young child lost the tip of her finger after getting it caught in a large metal door at a YMCA daycare, getting good care for her and taking care of the medical bills quickly was important. So that’s just what we did. Your Y is important to you, the people you serve, and your community. It’s also important to us. That’s why we make it our business to know your business.

6 AYP magazine October/November 2017

got a minute?

Erin

REULAND Specialist for Teen Programs at YMCA of the USA

Favorite AYP memory? The leaders I have met from the AYP network have been a lifelong resource for me, especially as I transitioned across state lines early in my Y career. The future looks bright because: I am excited to see the Y continue to get back in touch with our roots in community engagement through volunteerism.

Proudest moment at the YMCA? Being selected out of hundreds of applicants to represent U.S. YMCAs in the Youth Peace Network with representatives from 18 other countries Perfect happiness? Listening to music and dancing all night Greatest fear? Needles Greatest achievement? Leaving everything behind to move to Spain and live completely on my own Historical figure you most identify with? St. Francis of Assisi Living person you most identify with? Amy Poehler (and her TV character Leslie Knope) Favorite fictional hero? Harry Potter Favorite real-life hero? Martin Luther King, Jr Favorite food? Pasta Your greatest extravagance? Traveling Ultimate vacation? Sky diving in New Zealand Tops your bucket list? Going to Carnival in Rio de Janeiro Trait you deplore in others? Pretension Word you

overuse? Woot!

Greatest regret? Not being able to attend my brotherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wedding When and where were you the happiest? When I was teaching English in Madrid after college. Talents you most like to share? Salsa dancing Current state of mind? Optimistic If you could change one thing about yourself? My need to please others Best thing about your YMCA members? The teenagers

give me hope that a better future is possible under their leadership Dream occupation? Cirque du Soleil performer Your most obvious characteristic? I have lots of energy Quality you like most in a co-worker? Collaboration Favorite writer? Mark Twain Favorite movie? Romeo & Juliet (Baz Lurham directed) Dislike more than anything else? Wasting time

What is the most important thing to secure the viability of the YMCA movement? Breaking outside of our facility walls to reach the communities where they are Your motto? We do not stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing How did this interview make you feel? Like I should ask myself these questions more often.

ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY MORROW

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 7

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Y-Shaped Reflections AYP members share memories, successes, and lessons learned through AYP membership.

CHAIRING THE NORTHEAST CONFERENCE GAVE me a leadership opportunity like no other…where I could be creative, take risks, and be supported by an exceptional team of AYP committee members. Impactful, Tenured Career Thanks to AYP I have been involved with AYP for most of my 33-year YMCA career. I believe it is one of the main reasons I have had such an impactful and tenured career with the Y. Over the years, I have worn so many hats connected with AYP, from chapter roles such as recognition chair, program chair, EAR chair, and chapter president to regional conference roles such as program committee, program chair, conference committee, and conference chair. I think my most inspiring and greatest learning experience was chairing the Northeast Conference. The relationships that were formed and the experience I was able to deliver to Y staff for this conference were exceptional. It gave me a leadership opportunity like no other — one where I could be creative, take risks, and be supported throughout by an exceptional team of AYP committee members. It is an experience that I’ll never forget. I am grateful for all the opportunities AYP has afforded me over the years and am so glad these opportunities will continue to exist for future Y staff through the new Y Professionals Network. Andrea C. Vignali Senior Manager, Talent Management YMCA of the USA

Hired 8 Directors Through AYP Connections Harry Rock is my AYP inspiration. Harry branded “Fun, Friends, Fellowship” as the mantra of AYP Chapter 3, rumored to be the best darn chapter on the planet. When I was a new YMCA professional, this wildly energetic man quickly convinced me that having a strong network of colleagues would be the best way to control my own career destiny. Over the past years, I cannot count the number of times I have called an AYP colleague for assistance and support on a project or issue. I can, however, count the number of directors I have personally hired through a career-long commitment to AYP: Eight, unless you count Tony Sharillo, whom I’ve been honored to have join me twice. When Harry wasn’t standing on chairs doing the “YMCA,” leading the crowd repeat-after-me style in chants about the next meeting date, or talking about Camp Hazen YMCA, he was a fervent listener and supporter who continually reminded everyone how wonderful this Y career is. Thank you, Harry, for being the spirit of AYP Chapter 3. Chris Pallatto Executive Director, CEO Valley Shore Family YMCA

OVER THE PAST YEARS, I cannot count the number of times I have called an AYP colleague for assistance and support on a project or issue.

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 9

AYP IS PHENOMENAL for networking.

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Connect with more than 13 million new members

AYP People Have What You Want I credit much of my professional growth to people who have acted as mentors to me — even some who didn’t know that’s what they were doing. AYP is great for that. It is phenomenal for networking. You can talk to your peers, find out what they are doing, what challenges they are facing, and how they are overcoming them. You can look for individuals who have what you desire, for people who can do something you can’t, and ask the simple question, “How do you do that?” AYP members have always been great about helping each other out, and that makes all of us better as well as better able to serve our communities. Scott Lewis President and CEO YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids, Michigan

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AYP Clarified How We All Work Toward the Mission AYP is so great for advancing professionals and helping people grow. AYP offers so many excellent opportunities to take on joint projects, gives you a chance to work with people you wouldn’t otherwise, and show others what you are capable of. These opportunities can also show you what you are capable of. You can get exposure to areas or aspects of the Y you might not otherwise. It’s important to see the pieces of the puzzle. You have to be able to articulate the big picture and that means knowing what pieces go into it. No matter who you are or what level you’re at, what you’re doing is not just about one program, one department, one branch. How we all work toward the mission is important. AYP helps make that easier to see. Ed Philipp Senior Vice President and COO Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges

Taught the Value of Saving for Retirement Early in my career, I attended an AYP meeting as part of the South Texas Chapter. The main program was provided by a member of the YMCA Retirement Fund. While I knew about a Y retirement fund, I wasn’t exactly well versed in the details. This was the first time I heard details about how the retirement plan worked and the first time I received a print-out of my projected annuity, to be received at a date far in the future. I was blown away by the plan and the number, and commented to my co-worker who attended with me. We both agreed that while this was “a huge amount of money.,” we would need to work for the Y until that date, and we wondered whether we would. This began my long love affair with the Y Retirement Fund. I am happy to say that 42 years later, I am enjoying the annuity and continue to be impressed by our YRF. Thanks to AYP, I have taught many young staff the value of our YRF.

I’VE HAD A LONG LOVE affair with the Y Retirement Fund.

Cathi Duchon Retired, CEO Ann Arbor YMCA

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 11

Forever Grateful for AYP Colleagues, Now Called Friends AYP has inspired and empowered me to expand my network and find my true passion. I have had opportunities my current position would not have provided that will continue to further my career. Whether at a leadership summit or a local, regional, or national conference, the connections and people I meet are most valuable to me. I will forever be grateful for the Y colleagues across the country I now call friends. Missy Huppert Marketing Coordinator YMCA Greater Twin Cities in Minnesota

AYP HAS INSPIRED and empowered me to expand my network and find my true passion.

MY PARTICIPATION IN AYP HELPED ME IN every career move that I made. I knew people, and they knew the quality of my work. Relationships do matter. Y World Expanded Through AYP I was fortunate in my 35-year Y career to work in branches that supported AYP and had the resources to pay the majority of each staff personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dues. In 1980, I started attending chapter meetings and receiving the magazine. I admit that I had little real understanding of the organization, but figured it was like other professional membership organizations serving teachers, social workers, etc., and certainly had to be a benefit to me. I quickly figured out that there was significant learning potential from the local meetings, magazine articles, and from all the people I met. I looked forward to gatherings where I could talk with others, especially those who worked at neighboring Ys. At some point in my first five years with the Y, I attended my first AYP conference. Wow! I was impressed by the agenda and the sheer number of attendees from all over the country. My Y world was expanding. The relationships I made through AYP gave me the exposure in the Y that led to my recruitment to do training for the Y locally and nationally. I was also invited to participate in task forces and committees. Over time, I was invited to speak at AYP meetings and workshops. I learned a lot from these opportunities. I served briefly on a local AYP board. I believe my participation in AYP helped me in every career move that I made. I knew people, and they knew the quality of my work. Relationships do matter. I continued throughout my career to encourage others to participate and be supported by AYP. Elizabeth Dubuque Retired Executive Vice President and COO YMCA of the Suncoast

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THE OPPORTUNITIES TO BETTER UNDERSTAND the Y movement have been priceless.

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Expanding an Important Partnership Working with AYP has offered the colleagues of SilverSneakers by Tivity Health many worthwhile opportunities to meet with Y professionals in a relaxed atmosphere with time to truly connect. Our colleagues have attended multiple AYP conferences and engaged with Y staff during sessions, at meal times and at the social events. The opportunities to better understand the Y movement have been priceless. Without our AYP partnership, Tivity Health colleagues would not have the great insights and relationships with our Y partners, and in turn, serve the senior population to live healthy, live long. Thank you, AYP, and the YMCA.

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October/November 2017 AYP magazine 13

women in the Y It’s About Equity AYP’s investment in women is paying off, as female Y professionals continue to advance. By Kathryn Deen

On the road to gender equality, AYP has made a difference. Many members are singing the organization’s praises for helping them rise up in their careers while maintaining work-life balance. Amanda Moore, a 16-year employee of the Y of Greater Indianapolis, is director of leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and global strategies. She met several encouraging women at AYP’s conferences who helped mold her career path. “I don’t think I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for AYP,” Moore says. “AYP has really been able to provide support in that arena by providing outlets for women to come together locally at state conferences, to meet other females in the movement to create intimacy, connection, unity, and fellowship. AYP gives us that outlet to network and learn from other females in the community. That’s huge.” Ys are among the most female- and family-friendly places to work, offering flexible schedules, discounted or free access to children’s daycare, afterschool programs, and camps. And the number of women in top Y leadership positions continues to climb. Moore says the Y’s flexibility gave her and her husband the support to adopt twin boys Jackson and Baden, now two years old, in January.

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“If it wasn’t for the Y, my husband and I wouldn’t be the proud parents of these babies or have had the support we’ve had, such as maternity leave, and people praying and giving support and food,” Moore says. “You can’t find a better place to work than the Y for a mom who is passionate about her career and serving others but wants her first priority to be her children and her family.” Moore isn’t just on the receiving end of the support. She is encouraging other women to excel in their careers at the Y. About three years ago, Moore helped launch her Y’s chapter of the Women’s Leadership Resource Network, which she continues to oversee. The committee works on professional development, connecting women with networks in their Y, and creating environments for women to network.

“We saw a need for a place for women to voice their concerns, get that extra support that they need, and get mentoring,” Moore says. “The Ys have been very encouraging and supportive of letting us start that. It speaks volumes that our leadership has invested in our Y.” Moore also serves on the national committee for the Women’s Leadership Resource Network. “I feel empowered, and I feel like my voice is heard, and I feel like I can advocate for women,” Moore says. They’re working on the first-ever women’s conference for the Y, scheduled for September 2018. “We’re really excited about seeing it flourish,” Moore says. “We are in the early planning stages with the goal to empower, ignite, and unify the women in our movement.” The AYP also established the Employee Assistance Grant, which has aided women with medical bills for families who are caretakers — a typically female role — as well as new moms struggling financially. “It’s nice to know that assistance is out there, and it’s a huge perk that not a lot of AYP members know about,” Moore says. Having an organization like AYP to support Y professionals is beyond comforting, Moore says. “It’s crucial to have that extra networking avenue as a female in the organization,” she says. Moore has seen females grow, develop, and be lifted up through AYP’s state and national conferences. “Several of our female staff sat on the Indiana Chapter’s AYP planning committee for the conference, and it has given them a chance to step up and demonstrate their leadership,” Moore says. Plus, AYP magazine has inspired her and sparked conversation. “In almost every magazine, there’s been something interesting I’ve connected with and have been able to bring that idea to our Y,” Moore says. One such article was about a teen mentoring program in an underserved population and the role of Rayda Marquez at the NYC Y. “I was so inspired that I called her, and now we’re like best friends,” Moore says. “She’s really inspired me, especially with diversity and inclusion work and anything around that.” Moore also thinks spotlighting women leaders in the magazine will help encourage younger Y employees. “It’s good for our millennial female staff to see their colleagues in a magazine,” Moore says.

AYP HAS REALLY BEEN able to provide support in that arena by providing outlets for women to come together locally at state conferences and to meet other females in the movement to create intimacy, connection, unity, and fellowship. Amanda Moore Director of Leadership Development, Diversity and Inclusion, and Global Strategies Y of Greater Indianapolis

PURPOSEFUL PROGRAMS Recent research shows that about 27 percent of the nation’s YMCA CEOs are women. But they tend to oversee the smaller facilities, says Natalie Norton, who wore the title of president/CEO of AYP from 2014 to 2016, serving from Massachusetts. In fact, far less than 10 percent of the CEOs of the largest Ys in the country are women, she says. “That disparity continues,” she says. She attributes it to the boards of the larger Ys being made up of mostly males. “Women are highly competent,” she says. “Women can do anything that men can do. It’s about equity.”

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 15

THE AYP WORLD IS ALL run by volunteer chapter leadership that provides access to people and opportunities they wouldn’t normally have at a branch…That puts them on the person’s radar, and opportunities for promotion and expansion surface. Natalie Norton Executive Vice President and COO YMCA of Greater New York

Now, she’s executive vice president and COO of the YMCA of Greater New York, but during her time leading AYP, she recalls that AYP was actively discussing how to advance female Y professionals. “It was a topic of conversation around other dimensions of diversity,” Norton says. “I did programs across the country on staff and leadership development, and opportunities arose for staff to be on panels. It was really encouraging to look at not just generic leadership development, but what matters most in the Y movement.” And what matters most includes looking out for women. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my career to have great mentors — male and female — getting me to the position of No. 2 at the largest Y in the country,” Norton says. “I’ve had the opportunity, and I want to pay that forward.” Hence, Norton also has been chair of the YMCA of the USA Women’s Leadership Resource Network since 2012. “Certainly, that bled over to AYP and with my Y job in providing opportunities to make sure women have access to mentors, coaches, and other experiential opportunities to stretch their careers,” Norton says. She witnessed one such success story in which a young woman serving as a chapter volunteer in the Twin Cities area was inspired by her exposure to other female leaders. They helped her realize her career could go further if she got her bachelor’s degree. The Y gave her financial support and flexibility with her hours, and she’s now finishing her degree. “The AYP world is all run by volunteer chapter leadership that provides access to people and opportunities they wouldn’t normally have at a branch,” Norton says, “such as networking and finding keynote speakers and gaining access to CEOs and levels of leadership they wouldn’t have otherwise. That puts them on the person’s radar, and opportunities for promotion and expansion surface.” “Providing women the opportunity to experience, be seen, have responsibilities outside of their day-to-day job, to show them and expose them to successful women is part of the process, and I think AYP has done a nice job providing those opportunities to be seen and to see what’s possible,” Norton says.

Kathryn Deen is a contributing writer to AYP magazine.

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October/November 2017 AYP magazine 17

As AYP continues evolving, a review of this YMCA professional societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s milestones puts the journey in proper perspective.

18 AYP magazine October/November 2017

journey THE AYP

By Norris Lineweaver

ittle Brave Running Crow was my alter-ego name approved by the tribe upon joining with my father and brothers with other fathers and sons long before the brand change to Y Adventure Guides. The tribe provided a fun and adventurous dimension to growing up in a fast-changing, if not bewildering, society.

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 19

Members of the tribe came from different families, schools, and places of worship. Tribal leaders encouraged all little braves to be good citizens of their family, school, and chosen place of worship. The tribe strengthened the positive and constructive messages received by all little braves: Engage the basic elements of society with personal confidence, social responsibility, and awareness within and beyond the tribe. Longhouse gatherings of all tribes took place at the local Y. While tribal groups celebrated their identity, the Longhouse encouraged unity of purpose and family values common to all tribes. All elders led by example with this message, and the young fathers and sons bought into the notion of unity of the larger longhouse. Throughout the many years of AYP (under many different names), Y professionals created similar opportunities for unity, learning, and growth. At its very best, our national Y movement was beneficiary of a special triune of staff affiliation with three essential tribes that supported success in their respective careers. T he first, and primary tribe, is the professional’s family as the basis for personal core values and continued development. T he second tribe is the group of associates employed by the local Y they work with and respect as a team. T he third tribe is a defined network of colleagues near and far away who share common skills and special interests to advance the mission of the local, regional, and national movement. These three groups, in collaboration with the national movement, created a dynamic environment for the common good and growth of all. Seth Godin spoke truth about human nature’s desire to be identified with tribes with strong affiliations throughout our lives. Group identity and learning pays huge dividends when constructively tied to benchmarks of success for personal and professional development. What is a tribe? Godin said: “A tribe is any group of people, large or small, who are connected to one another, a leader, and an idea.” During my first position with the Y in Ethiopia, I learned about the ancient concept of “Habesha.” It is a concept as old as the Bible. Habesha is a term used by northern Ethiopians when referring to themselves. It is a term of pride used to encourage tribal identity as part of a greater whole and to celebrate unity of people from all tribes of the same region. For millions of years, humans have been seeking out tribes, be they religious, ethnic, economic, political, or even musical. It’s our nature. Godin encouraged us to think, “How can you unite people within your realm of influence to become a part of your tribe so you can use the power of a team to make amazing things happen?” All our tribal affiliations in our national Y movement are going through significant, if not extraordinary, change as we speak. With the current transition from the independent professional society we have known as AYP toward an integrated network of professionals managed by YMCA of the USA, it is an ideal time to celebrate a few of the milestones of accomplishment. This is not a eulogy. It is a tribute to the beginning of a great endeavor in our movement’s history for which our remarkable past is preparation.

20 AYP magazine October/November 2017

STOKING LEADERSHIP FROM THE START One of the attributes of a professional society experience is joining colleagues somewhere away from the obligations of official duty to imagine new ideas and connect with greater opportunities to advance the Y’s mission. This is how our society began in 1871 when 13 YMCA general secretaries joined each other on a cruise down the Potomac River. This marked the beginning of voluntary meetings of Y professionals, an annual tradition that went uninterrupted for 146 years. During this time, the general secretary was often the only employed person of the local association. The duties of office involved everything that prepared the Y to demonstrate hospitality and access to desirable choices of engagement from Bible classes to a hot bath for a nickel. Staffing committees of lay volunteer leaders and the board of directors required penmanship and attention to detail far above the standard expected of others. Y secretaries were considered men of letters. Historical archives from this early period contain original manuscripts of minutes ranging from cursive writing to high standards of calligraphy as a form of art. The early dialogue invited by continuous meetings of the professional society were carefully chronicled in detail that led to a body of work, 80 years later, edited by Gren O. Pierrel titled“The Executive Role of YMCA Administration.” His work was, in its time, the seminal text for required study at leadership training events hosted by the Association of Secretaries (AOS) in collaboration with the National Council of YMCA state, regional, and national offices. Pierrel first presented the work of his commission in June 1951 at the AOS Triennial Conference in Cleveland, Ohio, attended by 1,037 Y secretaries from around the nation. Administrative practices detailed by Pierrel led to further refinement as redundant practices became more automated through application of new technology beginning in the late 1960s. Suggestions emerged through professional society dialogue that not only did redundant practices at the local level had significant commonality, but that several associations could benefit through cooperative capital investment in software development.

SELF-HELP INITIATIVES: RETIREMENT FUND AND EAF In 1911, 40 years following the first meeting of our professional society, the thencalled Employed Officers Association (EOA) promoted the idea for what we now know as the YMCA Retirement Fund. The root of the idea was formed following another self-help initiative in 1904 known as the Employed Officer’s Relief Fund (later to be known as the AYP Emergency Assistance Fund). While cases justifying grants from the relief fund came from active employees, there was acknowledgment of the need to help colleagues who retired without pension. This trend provoked the professional society, following the experience and model of the relief fund. The YMCA Retirement Fund was incorporated in 1921 by a special act of the legislature of the State of New York. According to the historical record, the fund’s actuary estimated that $3,700,000 would be needed to provide for the accrued liability of Y professionals already employed and likely to participate. A fundraising

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 21

THE YMCA RETIREMENT Fund provides Y staff the benefit of lifetime financial security that followed the mobility of their careers.

goal of $4 million was set. The YMCA professional society encouraged local leaders to answer the challenge. The network of local staff led by example and raised $335,000. Keep in mind that annual YMCA salaries averaged less than $3,000 annually at this time. The record states that Dr. John R. Mott, then the general secretary of the International Committee of the Y, secured pledges of $2 million. Included in these pledges was $750,000 (a conditional matching gift) from the Laura SpellmanRockefeller Foundation, acquired with the help of John D. Rockefeller, Jr. He added another $250,000, for a total Rockefeller gift of $1 million. Over the next 2 ½ years, contributions of $2 million were raised from individual Ys and other donors to meet the conditions of the Rockefeller contributions. The YMCA Retirement Fund provides a benefit of lifetime financial security earned by local professional Y staff that follows the mobility of their careers. The power and influence of the fund to enable mobility of earned retirement benefit fostered career advancement as well as introduction of fresh new ideas and practices to advance the mission and growth of the national movement as leadership moved around. The independence of the fund protected it from the downturn of local Y balance sheets during the Great Depression that began just eight years following its beginning. No losses were incurred by the fund, though many local Ys and the National Council had to cut back to avoid further losses during the economic downturn. The fund remains an extraordinary mutual benefit for staff and their families during their active careers as a source of peace of mind as well as financial security during retirement.

CODE OF ETHICS A common characteristic of all professional societies is adoption of a code of ethics or conduct. Discussion about such a code took the form, modeled after the Hippocratic Oath of the medical society, addressing personal conduct befitting of a Y leader. Details such as no use of tobacco and alcohol received some objection, and so the body of initial work was tabled at the 1951 AOS Triennial. While cash bars at Y meetings were generally taboo until the late 60s, smoking during Y gatherings was not prohibited until that same time. It was a remarkable tradeoff in the Y culture. It was not until the 80s — with the leadership of Michael Graves, Nnational AYP board member and CEO of the YMCA of Delaware — that there was an organized discussion of a code of ethics nationwide. This led to local member association adoption and has since matured into collaboration with EthicsPoint, an outsourced consulting firm specializing in providing a common standard of continuously updating ethics and conduct standards addressing all facets of association work. The AYP Code of Ethics was published in Perspective magazine (now known as AYP magazine) several times in the 1990s and early 2000. (Editor’s note: For more on the code of ethics, see pg 28.) There are three statements in the AYP Code of Ethics that require a continuous journey of spiritual growth and maturity. The Y is not as concerned with the theology of Christian ethics, but rather with universal practices based on Christian principles. The society, especially after members returned from service in world wars, called for interfaith understanding and engagement of staff and members

22 AYP magazine October/November 2017

regardless of religious affiliation. Discernment was consistently encouraged by local chapters of our professional society to openly discuss what it means to put Christian principles into practice through professional conduct as well as leadership in daily membership and program protocols. Beyond the chaplaincy corps of the Y, it is hopeful this discernment will manifest itself in other platforms and forums within the national movement in the future.

CAUSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP GUIDE Space for this article does not permit discussion of all accomplishments of our YMCA professional society, but I saved the best for last because it is the bridge to tomorrow and preparation for what is now before our national movement. Seth Godin, said, “Leadership is the art of giving people a platform for spreading ideas that work.” From the very beginning, our professional society set aside time focused on core leadership competencies that enable Y professionals to succeed locally. The dialogue was always shared in collaboration with the National Council of YMCAs through regional and national offices. This dialogue was enriched at times with the presence of institutions of higher education including George Williams and Springfield colleges. Gary Kuenzli, senior vice president of the Los Angeles YMCA and AYP national officer, developed a comprehensive model based on career developmental stages upon which scaled leadership competencies would be encouraged throughout a Y director’s career. Input for this model came from intentional dialogue between local AYP chapters and Y-USA discussion groups. The footprint of this initiative is evident now in Y-USA’s “Development Guide for Cause Driven Leadership.” The Cause Driven Leadership Model is conceived around 18 defined skillsets organized through four key disciplines: mission advancement, collaboration, operational effectiveness, and personal growth. These dimensions reflect the aims of our professional society of our past well. Capacity building for delivery will draw from leadership assets of local Ys to be known as the Y Professional Network (YPN). Many of these personnel assets are harvested from the best of AYP as well as previous networks developed by Y-USA. The tribal triune of our storied past, built of the Y staff’s own family who nurtured personal growth, the associates with whom the Y staff works with on a daily basis, and the network of colleagues from near and far away who nurtured professional growth, has prepared us for this new platform advocated by Godin.

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Norris D. Lineweaver is chairman of World Fellowship of YMCA Retirees, director general (retired) of Jerusalem International YMCA, and immediate past CEO and president of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. ¨

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 23

AYP TIME TRAVEL 1871 Association formally organized by 11 men on board a steamer on the Potomac River. Called Association of General Secretaries of the Young Men’s Christian Association of the United State and British Provinces, this meeting also marks the first of the annual conferences of the employed officers of the YMCA that have continued in some form uninterrupted to this day. 1888 Gymnasium supervisors admitted to the annual conference by request of Luther Gulick, thus identifying a new type of secretary — the Christian Physical Education Director. 1903 Association’s name changes to the Association of Employed Officers of the Young Men’s Christian Association. 1904 Employed Officers Relief Fund founded — the forerunner of AYP’s Emergency Assistance Fund. 1911 EOA leaders initiate the idea for a YMCA Retirement Fund. 1921 Association publishes Forum, its first professional journal. First available through a subscription, a year later it’s a membership benefit. 1922 EOA leaders initiate idea of a certification process for YMCA secretaries. 1936 Association’s name changes to Association of Secretaries (AOS).

1939 Geographical chapters officially recognized. Association quickly becomes very complex, with section units within chapters and chapter units within sections. 1945 First Conference in Dispersion created because of war-time imposed travel restrictions. About 1,300 secretaries participate in local study groups throughout the country. 1952 Lawrence K. Hall, member of the National YMCA staff, named the association’s first executive secretary on a part-time basis. 1957 Leslie J. Thompkins, also a National YMCA staff member, succeeds Hall as the association’s second, part-time executive secretary. 1966 J. Robert Knight, a member of the National YMCA’s Ohio-West Virginia Region staff, is hired as the association’s first full-time executive. AOS office moves from New York to Columbus, Ohio.

1981 James G. Stooke is hired as the third full-time national executive director of the association. 1988 APD’s national office is relocated from Columbus, Ohio, to Bloomington, Minnesota. 1993 APD’s membership overwhelmingly approves a new constitution and bylaws, thereby eliminating the three national sections (administration, health and physical education, and program), reducing the national board in size from 60 to 30 members, and establishing seven regional councils. 2000 John Coduri is hired as the fourth full-time national executive director of the association. 2001 APD’s National Office relocates from Bloomington, Minnesota, to Westerly, Rhode Island.

1969 Association name changes to Association of Professional Directors of YMCAs in the United States (APD), after Canadians withdraw their memberships to start their own association.

2004 APD’s membership and National Board of Directors approves a new constitution and bylaws for the association, changing its name to the Association of YMCA Professionals (AYP) and adopting a new mission statement: “To advance the YMCA profession.”

1972 Robert C. Goff is hired as the second full-time national executive director of the association.

2010 The Y revitalizes its brand and begins officially referring to itself by its familiar name — the Y.

1975 Forum is renamed Perspective.

2011 AYP magazine launches. 2017 AYP migrates to Y-USA and is rebranded as YPN or YMCA Professional Network.

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OTHER Since 1904, AYP members in need have found financial support and caring through the

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October/November 2017 AYP magazine 25

Core Values Stood the Test of Time

A former AYP national executive director reflects on how AYPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core values influenced its contributions to Y professionals across decades.

26 AYP magazine October/November 2017

By John Coduri

he Association of YMCA Professionals (AYP) has been the professional society for YMCA staff members in the United States in some form since its inception in 1871, when 11 men on board a steamer on the Potomac River established the Association of General Secretaries of the Young Men’s Christian Association of the United States and British Provinces (AGS) — the first of five different association names. It was organized just 20 years after the founding of the first YMCA in America in Boston in 1851. There have been various mission statements for AYP throughout its 146-year history. Its latest statement is simplistic, but direct and powerful in describing the core of AYP’s organizational efforts: To advance the YMCA profession. Its most recent operating principles shed additional focus on the overall efforts of its staff and volunteer leadership: Connect and support AYP members Encourage lifelong learning Enhance personal and career development Advocate on issues of concern to members Promote high ethical standards and Christian values Recognize individual achievement and excellence

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AYP existed to serve the individual Y staff member and was at its most effective at the regional level, among the 36 chapters across the country. In service to its core values and the mission of the Y, there have been many noteworthy contributions by AYP, especially during the first 50 years of its existence. Among the standouts is the creation of the Employed Officers Relief Fund in 1904. This was the forerunner of AYP’s Emergency Assistance Fund, a major benefit of AYP membership. EAF awarded more than $2 million dollars in grants in just the 10-year period of 2000–2009.

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 27

SPREADING THE WORD and sharing what it meant to be a Y professional was as crucial to the early AYP as it is today.

It was the leaders of the Employed Officers Alliance (EOA was AYP’s second name) who in 1911 initiated the idea for a YMCA Retirement Fund. For nearly 100 years, this fund has provided countless Y colleagues with a comfortable retirement. Spreading the word and sharing what it meant to be a Y professional was as crucial to the early AYP as it is today. Forum was AYP’s first professional journal (forerunner of Perspective, which would become AYP magazine in 2011). It began publishing in 1921 and was considered the most valued aspect of AYP membership in a broad survey of all members. Its informative and engaging style provided a forum for Y colleagues to express their views on a variety of issues of concern for the larger movement, as well as extolling the success of a new local Y endeavor for other associations to undertake. AYP was totally run by volunteers for the first 80 years. In 1952, the torch was passed to the association’s first executive secretary, Lawrence K. Hall, a member of the national YMCA staff. He started work on a part-time basis. Five years later, Leslie J. Thompkins, also a national YMCA staff member, succeeded Hall as the part-time executive secretary. It was not until 1966 that the position of executive secretary became full time with the hiring of J. Robert Knight, a member of the national YMCA’s Ohio-West Virginia Region staff. Five full-time national executives followed Knight: Robert Goff (1972), James Stooke (1981), John Coduri (2000), Donna Dunn (2010), and Natalie Norton (2014). At the helm of AYP, these directors saw dutifully to the carrying out of the mission and ensuring adherence to the association’s core values. There is no definitive date for when the AYP Code of Ethics was created, but its relevance and importance has not diminished over the past century.

Embody the standards of conduct so perfectly exemplified by the life and ministry of Jesus in one’s personal life, which will reflect honor and credit on the profession. Accept responsibility for the quality of one’s own professional competence. Maintain loyalty to the employing YMCA and support its organizational objectives. Commit one’s professional leadership to the achievement of the YMCA’s Christian mission and purpose. Conduct one’s personal and professional affairs in a manner that will avoid any exploitation of, or embarrassment to, the YMCA. Seek opportunities for personal and professional development for self and colleagues. Manage information and preserve confidentialities gained through professional relationship in a responsible manner. R ender fair and just considerations in work assignments, employment practices, decision-making processes, and programmatic endeavors. Understand and accept persons with different beliefs and behavior, and serve each one respectfully and impartially. Be honest and truthful.

28 AYP magazine October/November 2017

Going forward, I am confident that the YMCA Professional Network, in concert with Y-USA, will continue to provide many of the services, activities, and programs that were previously under the guidance of AYP. I wish the future leaders of this new network alliance much success in the betterment of the movement’s staff. Previously, I offered the following articulation of our professional society and its relevance to the larger Y Movement: “AYP is much more than a monthly journal, much more than an Emergency Assistance Fund, much more than periodic regional and national conferences. It is a connecting place, a learning place, a commitment place, a gathering place that reinforces our call to serve children, families, and communities throughout the country.” As we turn now to YPN to maintain these places, we do so with the knowledge that the spirit and values that made AYP great will live on in all of us.

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John Coduri was the AYP national executive director from 2000–2009.

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A HISTORY OF HELPING AYPâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Emergency Assistance Fund has provided crucial help for many Y professionals over the years. Here are some of their stories.

30 AYP magazine October/November 2017

n 1904, E. E. Sheldon, the secretary of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad YMCA, came down with inflammatory rheumatism, which prevented him from working. Unable to sit by and see a 22-year veteran of the Y and a valued friend and colleague succumb to such a fate, W. H. Morriss, secretary of the Baltimore YMCA, got an idea. He sent a letter to 100 YMCA secretaries from around the country, asking each to contribute $3 per year toward Sheldon’s expenses. The Baltimore YMCA would match donations dollar for dollar. The appeal worked and provided Sheldon and his family $50 per month for the rest of his life. Morriss’s idea took root, and in a meeting of the Conference of Employed Officers in Omaha, Nebraska, on June 5, 1909, the Employed Officers Relief Fund was created and a committee was appointed to oversee its operations. The fund later became known as AYP’s Emergency Assistance Fund. More than 110 years later, the EAF is still providing grants to Y professionals in their time of need, with hundreds of thousands awarded to date. Here, some EAF recipients share their stories and gratitude for the support of their YMCA colleagues.

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 31

Financial Aid When a Father Passed Suddenly One day before our summer began at YMCA Camp Sloper, my father, Mark Hubeny, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 56. He had heart failure while driving; however, he was able to pull over, causing no harm to other drivers on the road. This is just the kind of man my father was. His sudden passing was a shock to me, my brother Alex, his partner Patty, her children Victoria and Daniel, and the entire Hubeny family. His unexpected death left us all very confused and not knowing where to turn emotionally. We had a lot of new responsibilities, and many financial worries. Then, like an angel sent from heaven, my family and I were awarded a grant from the Emergency Assistance Fund. The Emergency Assistance Fund grant helped my family and me in our time of need. With this gift, we were able to pay the mortgage we were left with along with several other unexpected bills. This generous and selfless donation helped our family out greatly. We were honored and blessed to receive such a gift, and it is difficult to express our overwhelming gratitude in words. The grant from EAF made it a little easier to come to terms and deal with this sudden tragedy, as we did not have to worry about the financials right away. Again, thank you, EAF and AYP Chapter 3, as well as anyone who had anything to do with granting this award to me and my family. This act of kindness and generosity will never be forgotten, and it makes me proud to work for such an amazing organization. God bless. Justin Huben Outdoor Center Program Director, YMCA Camp Sloper

32 AYP magazine October/November 2017

Meeting Expenses When the Diagnosis is Cancer In October 2010 at the age of 42, I detected a mass in my left breast. After screenings and tests and a biopsy, I was diagnosed with triple-negative, poorly differentiated, ductal carcinoma. This is an aggressive form of breast cancer, and of the 15 types, I was told this type had the highest recurrence rate. Also, because it was non-hormonal, there would be no post-treatment drug therapy to lower my risk of recurrence. I had surgery to remove three lymph nodes and had a Mediport inserted in my chest to receive chemotherapy. In December 2010, I began the first of six chemotherapy treatments. On April 27, 2011, I underwent a bilateral mastectomy and removal of the Mediport device, followed by 28 radiation treatments. Throughout the course of the year, I was prescribed 16 different prescriptions. I concluded the year in September 2011 with a 9-Â˝-hour Diep flap reconstruction surgery using tissue from my stomach to rebuild my breasts. My journey is no more significant than that of any other cancer survivor. But what is different is that I had the opportunity to apply to the AYP Emergency Assistance Fund. The grant helped cover insurance deductibles and insurance out-of-pocket deductibles, as well as a host of prescription medications. If not for the financial assistance, I would still be paying back medical expenses today. I am grateful for the EAF grant and encourage every Y professional to consider making a donation to this most unique and worthwhile fund. You never know if a crisis will occur, but it sure is nice to know that EAF is there. May God bless each and every AYP EAF contributor. Connie Chapman Director of Social Responsibility Luter Family YMCA, Virginia

Recovery After Child Born with a Heart Defect Truth be told, I never thought I would be that guy. I guess no one ever does. Our fourth child was born with a heart defect. I will forever be grateful to AYP and the wonderful Y professionals that support our EAF fund year in and year out. It is because of the kindness and generosity of all of you that my family was able to recover both financially and mentally through one of the most traumatic and painful experiences of our lives. Sean Elliott Group Vice President Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA

Help in a Hurricane

Support When an Everyday Surgery Went Wrong

Words cannot express the massive devastation we encountered from Hurricane Sandy. In the past, I’ve applied for grants for other colleagues, always hoping I would never need one. After almost five years, work was still ongoing to repair our home. It was more than four years before we could even set foot in the house. Just knowing that so many people cared and sent well wishes — and receiving much needed financial support — meant the world to us. While still dealing with the loss of our home and so many personal belongings, no power, no heat or hot water, so much uninsured loss, we were devastated by something far worse. Our youngest son, Kevin, was attacked and underwent emergency surgery on his birthday in the same hospital where he was born 25 years before. We are thanking God that he even had a birthday. The YMCA is such a wonderful organization, and I have always been proud to be part of AYP. I have personally supported EAF over the years and have asked others to do the same. In August, my husband put a check in the mail to help the people affected by Hurricane Harvey. I can’t believe other people will have to go through what we did. EAF is a godsend. It means so much that there are people who care. This is a feeling of warmth that I can’t describe (even when we had no heat, hot water, electric, or belongings from Hurricane Sandy — we were still feeling the warmth). It’s overwhelming. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!

In the fall of 2009, I had what the surgeon called “an everyday procedure” to place a spinal stimulator in my spine and my left foot at an outpatient medical center. The process was to take approximately one hour. After 90 minutes, the surgeon informed my husband they were having a problem, and the surgery would take longer to perform. Three hours later, I was taken into recovery. When I started waking up, I was in severe pain that could not be contained with medication. The doctor was called back in, and after assessing the problem, informed my husband that I needed to be transferred to the hospital. The following day, I had emergency surgery because I could not feel my right leg, my blood pressure had dropped dangerously low, and the pain in the spine could not be controlled. After three hours of surgery, the diagnosis was grim: My L-1 and L-2 nerves had been damaged during the original surgery. I remained in the hospital for nine weeks due to a number of complications, including the inability to use my bladder and a number of infections. I have been in a wheelchair since November 2009 and have had seven surgeries, three stays in rehab centers, and numerous hours of therapy. My medication alone well exceeds what my medical insurance covers. The EAF grant has been a tremendous help to my family. Everything you read about EAF is true. You just can’t believe it until it does happen to you. I came home from the hospital in January 2010. Starting January 1, I had to meet a new deductible of $4,000. I was back in the hospital in mid-January while still paying the deductible. If it weren’t for EAF taking the burden off of my family at a time when so many other decisions needed to be made and bills had to be paid, I’m not sure how it could have been done. My family can never be more thankful to an organization that is built solely on gifts from peers around the world.

Donna Boyle Executive Director, Patchogue Family YMCA/ Brookhaven Roe Y Center, New York

EAF: HOW TO HELP Your contribution — no matter how large or small — will directly help a Y colleague in need. Visit ayponline.org/emergency-assistance-fund/donate to make a donation to the Emergency Assistance Fund.

Suzanne Zanella Senior Project Director YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh-Allegheny

October/November 2017 AYP magazine 33

spirituality

Aging Gracefully Whether we welcome the aging process or not, the truth is that we are all getting older. The years seem to slip by more and more quickly without any regard for our desire to slow it all down. Father Time is the ultimate reality, moving forward with a precision and cadence that belies even the most ardent of youth seekers. Maybe the essential question when it comes to growing older is whether we are getting wiser, more centered, and more loving as we age. As we look back at the successes of AYP over the years and look ahead to future successes of YPN, it’s an important time to ask how we as Y professionals collectively want to age. At the risk of oversimplifying, let me suggest that there are two paths available to us as we age professional and personally. We will label the first path denial and disdain, and the second path we’ll call the path of acceptance with grace. Let’s describe both of these so we have a clear image in our mind of what each path looks like. It may be helpful to attach actual names and faces of people you know as you read these descriptions, although I would do this discreetly.

The Path of Denial and Disdain The path of denial and disdain can look pretty ugly. These are people who become more cranky, more ornery, and

Bruce Tamlyn Chaplain and Director of Spiritual Life Silver Bay YMCA, New York

more negative as they age. They let life’s little frustrations drive them crazy. They become less forgiving of themselves and of those around them. Their day-to-day existence shows evidence of the constant struggle that life is for them. Their constant negativity and critical nature is off-putting to others, and their ever-present complaining is a drain on their energy and on the energy of everyone else. These people are not fun to be with. What I find interesting is that most people on this path don’t realize how negative and ornery they are. They are just being “themselves.” Let me suggest that at the center of this path is a disdain for the aging process, and moreover, a lack of sincere self-acceptance and genuine self-love.

The Path of Acceptance with Grace The path of acceptance with grace looks

very different. Here, there is a welcoming and an embracing of the aging process — one might even say there is a sense of gratitude for the passing years, seeing each newyear as a gift. As part of this path, there is a growing appreciation of the inner and outer beauty that comes with age. We become wiser, more patient, less judgmental of ourselves and others, more forgiving, and more peaceful. In a general way, we take on a more loving nature that permeates our relationships and our day-to-day disposition. There is a humility and a gratitude of the heart that is evident in the lives of those who are aging gracefully. This second path is summarized beautifully in Galatians 5, where it speaks of the fruit of the spirit as one of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self -control. In the end, it is the recognition and acceptance of God’s love for us that places us firmly and squarely on the road of this second path. Aging gracefully is the process of letting go of our self-centeredness and replacing it with the divine grace that comes in a relationship with the holy. Aging with grace is a sacred journey, and one that should not be traveled alone. May the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob travel with us. And may our journey — and AYP’s — be a long, healthy, and loving experience.

AS WE LOOK BACK AT AYP AND LOOK AHEAD TO YPN, IT’S AN IMPORTANT time to ask how we as Y professionals collectively want to age. 34 AYP magazine October/November 2017

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BODY

Put Your Stress to Rest

oo much stress can undermine a good night’s sleep. And poor sleep can lead to even more stress, which can lead to more trouble sleeping the next night, creating a vicious cycle. So, what can you do about it? Take control of your stress, especially as bedtime draws near. ample some calming scents. Simply breathing in the scent of lavender can S instantly ease anxiety and help you feel calmer. Slather on some lavenderscented lotion, put essential oils in a diffuser, or put a few drops into the water when washing your face. Listen to soothing tunes. Music has a powerful ability to counteract the body’s stress response by slowing the pulse, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing the amount of stress hormones. Nature sounds like rippling water might be even more effective. Write in a journal. If a racing mind keeps you up at night, the answer could simply be getting it all out of your head. One tangible way to do that: Spill it onto paper. Write down what happened during the day, what’s on your mind — whatever feels right to you. Do some yoga. Yoga is a great way to relax your body and your mind. From its gentle stretches to its vigorous flows, yoga incorporates breathing exercises and meditative practices to reverse anxiety and get you ready for slumber.

“You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward. So, you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something — your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down.” — Steve Jobs

MIND

What phrase is represented?

SIGH_ Answer: No end in sight.

For more information on healthy sleep, visit the National Sleep Foundation at sleep.org.

36 AYP magazine October/November 2017

Courtesy www.braingle.com.

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October/November 2017 AYP magazine 3

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4 AYP magazine October/November 2017

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