According to Associate Executive Director Nick Dorazio, “the ‘Rejuvenate Reston Y’ project reflects our community-focused YMCA, beginning with the gathering spaces that provide a wide range of communitybuilding opportunities.” For the kids, offerings include youth conditioning classes, sports programs, youth leagues, interactive games and board games. Membership Director Josh Askew states, “Our vision is to create a better everyday life for our community by creating an engaging environment – not just staff to member but also member to member.” Michael Kelloff, a young professional and Reston resident who has been a Y member for the past year, says that with the new gathering areas, he can see the Y as a hub for young people who have outgrown the teen center. “There really isn’t a place right now to hang out in before or after a workout. With the renovations, the Y might be the place,” he says.
Already, the rejuvenated Reston Y has shifted to high gear in its outreach. Community organizations that have used its new multipurpose rooms include Reston Historic Trust & Museum, Leadership Fairfax, and Richey Property Management & Metrowest Realty. Revitalized programming has seen the Y widening its doors at events such as Halloween at the Y Parade, YMCA Chili Cook-Off, Breakfast with Santa, and more. Exciting rejuvenation continues as more new equipment and features are being installed. Meanwhile, David and his team are staying on course as they pursue various avenues to “work collaboratively with individuals and organizations to open our doors to community events. We hope people will see the Y as a resource and place to gather for a wholesome, lifeenriching experience.” www.ymcadc.org
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