CANDACE MARTIN

Martin's heart lies in Y leadership role

By Dawn Medley

On any given day, you might find Candace Martin in the parking lot teaming up with Maintenance Director Danny Williams to fix a failing lamp post, taking a potential new staff member on a facility tour, or on the phone with the concerned parent of an Afterschool Adventure Club child.

For the past year, Martin's official position title at the STAUNTON-AUGUSTA FAMILY YMCA has been Associate Executive Director, but a true description of what her job entails would fill several pages.

"If there's something that needs attention, Candace will be there," says Josh Cole, Executive Director. "She doesn't let anything fall through the cracks. By doing what she does best - taking care of details behind the scenes - she allows each of us [on the staff] to focus on our priorities and do our best work for the benefit of members and the community."

Staffing shortages at the Y - similar to those at many nonprofits and other service sectors since the pandemic - partially explain the wide range of Martin's responsibilities. However, when talking to her, you get the feeling that she would be involved in pretty much everything even if the organization had its full complement of employees.

"I'm the kind of person who likes to be able to switch gears multiple times in a day," she said, intermittently patting stacks on her desk that she has designated for "today," "tomorrow," and "later this week."

"It keeps things moving throughout the day, and gives me a chance to stay in touch with what is happening in different departments," she added.

"She's probably the most organized person I know. I had no doubts that the Y was going to be in good hands when she was named for this position."

That's Rhonda Shinaberry, YMCA Associate Executive Director for 25 years before Martin was chosen for the role. Shinaberry was immediately impressed with Martin while serving as her supervisor when she interned at the facility as an undergrad studying athletic training at Ferrum College. The pair worked closely over the years while Martin gained experience at the front desk, and when she joined the full-time staff as administrative assistant and later worked as membership coordinator.

Martin's logistical skills are usually front and center, but it's her genuine gift as a compassionate leader that strengthens the community at the core of the Y. Her connection to the organization is palpable when she relates stories from her tenure. Tears well up in her eyes when she talks about a woman she worked with to secure a discounted membership so that she didn't need to continue driving more than an hour to another facility just to take a shower once a week.

"It's those kinds of situations where I know that the Y can help; that's when I know I'm right where I need to be," said Martin, who is a caregiver to her mother and grandparents when she's not on the job.

Although Shinaberry is no longer on staff at the Y, Martin still considers her mentor an essential part of her personal "team."

"My goal at the end of every day is to be able to say that I made Rhonda proud," Martin says, her voice faltering just enough to underscore their bond. "I know I can still call on her when I need advice."