YLife Birmingham Spring 2013

YLife BIRMINGHAM

April-June 2013 Volume 8, Issue 2

MAKING MEMORIES SUMMER 2013 U O Y R FO E D A M S A W T A H T N SUMMER FU FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FOR HEALTHY LIVING FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILTY

LifeNotes Can you hear that? See it? Smell it? That’s summer

coming around the corner! The school year is almost over, the grass is getting greener, the days are – thankfully – getting warmer, and the YMCA of Greater Birmingham is ready to celebrate the return of summer with you.

As Pelham membership director Leslie Lazaro says in the LifeSkills column on page 5, it’s not summer at the YMCA if kids aren’t running around laughing and singing songs. However, summer at the YMCA is much more than that. For instance, during a typical summer at the YMCA, children can learn canoeing and rock climbing (page 2), learn to play tennis (page 8), learn to build masterpieces with Duct Tape (page 12), and get a jump on the next school year (page 12).

Take a moment to let your kids read this issue and let them find something that excites them, interests them and, hopefully, makes them sing and dance.

To our valued members, Our focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility means that at the YMCA you are part of a great tradition of building a stronger, healthier community. In addition our commitment to the highest standards in program development for all ages, the impact to the communities we serve, and safety for all, we continually invest in facility and equipment upgrades at every location.

To continue fulfilling our mission and vision of a healthier community while meeting the rising costs of high quality programs, there will be a rate adjustment effective April 1, 2013. Here are the new rates.

YMCA Monthly Dues Effective April 1, 2013: Young Adult members must be at least 14 years and less than 26 years Dependent Children must be less than 26 years old Senior members (1 must qualify) must be at least 62 years old Multiple Adults on the same membership must reside in the same household YMCA may request verification of residence Only one form of payment per household

CITYWIDE MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES:

SMALL BRANCH MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES:

Individual

(access to Alabaster, Northeast, Vestavia, Western Area only)

Adult $56 Senior or Young Adult $43

Individual Individual Plus Adult + Dependent Children Senior Adult + Dependent Children

$78 $60

Two Adults Two Adults $78 Senior Two Adults $60 Two/Three Adults Plus Two Adults+Dependent Children $86 Two Senior Adults+Dependent Children $66 Three Adults+Dependent Children $96

SB Adult $45 Individual Plus SB Adult+Dependent Children $64 Two Adults SB Two Adults $64 Two/Three Adults Plus SB Two Adults+Dependent Children $69 SB Three Adults+Dependent Children $78

YLife BIRMINGHAM

April-June 2013 Volume 8 Issue 2

YMCA of Greater Birmingham Officers CHAIRMAN Joseph Mays, Jr. VICE CHAIRMAN David Woodruff TREASURER Lloyd Shelton SECRETARY Greg Weyandt

Board Members Anthony Berryman D. Laurence Blackstone Joseph S. Bluestein Walter Body Cecil Bostany Elizabeth Carpenter William N. Clark Denise Dauphin Sarah Duggan Andy Easterling Courtney French Eric Frye Ann Haas Phyllis Hall Roderick Hawkins Wayne Houston Ann Huckstep Frank S. James, III Lynn Jones Anthony A. Joseph John Lauriello E. James Loop Joseph Mays, Jr. Jazmine McDaniel

Board of Trustees CHAIRMAN Ann Huckstep VICE CHAIRMAN William N. Clark Joseph S. Bluestein Frank S. James, III Allen D. Rushton Scott Vowell President and CEO Stan Law YLife Birmingham is published four times a year by the YMCA of Birmingham.

Copyright 2006 by the Metropolitan Birmingham YMCA. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the YMCA of Birmingham.

YLife Birmingham welcomes letters and story ideas. Please send them to: YLife Birmingham, 2101 4th Avenue North, Birmingham, Alabama 35203 or to ylife@ymcabham.org.

YLife Birmingham Staff

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS David G. Hill COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR Loyd McIntosh DESIGNER Tracy Thomas

Mission: To put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Vision: We will lead our community to become the healthiest in America.

United Way Partner.

Join Me at the Y

4

2013 Summer Camps

Circuit

9 17

Ann D. McMillan Dan Monroe John Ott Rick Player Harlan Prater Emily Rushing Allen D. Rushton Lloyd Shelton Reeves Sims, Jr. Helen Catherine Smith J. Stephen Smith Walker Sorrell Andra Sparks Cedric Sparks Kim Strifert Britney Summerville Scott Vowell Chip Watts David Watts Tommy Wells Greg Weyandt Hunter Williams Sally Hartley Williams David Woodruff

My Mission

23

JoinMe at the Y KNOW WHAT TO DO WHEN THE TIME COMES Lifeguarding Classes Being a lifeguard can be a very challenging and rewarding job. The course content and activities prepare participants to recognize and respond quickly and effectively to emergencies and prevent drownings and injuries, and will certify participants to be a lifeguard for the YMCA.

CPR Classes The American Red Cross Community CPR/AED course provides participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to sustain life and minimize the consequences of injury or sudden illness until advanced medical help arrives. Upon successful completion of this course, participants will hold an adult, infant, child CPR/AED certification valid for two years.

Lifeguard and CPR classes are ongoing throughout the spring at most member branches.

Contact your neighborhood branch or go online to ymcabham.org for details.

On the podcast ‌ LIFESKILLS

Menu Matters

YMCA Greystone Dietician, Suzanne Pirkle, discusses how to avoid common dietary pitfalls when dining out. From learning how to decipher words and descriptions on restaurant menus to passing on the all-you-can eat buffets, Suzanne shows you how to dine out without spreading out.

LIFESKILLS LIFESKILLS

New Experience Member The New The Member Experience Leslie Lazaro, Membership Director of YMCA Pelham expands on her

The YMCA Youth Center kids were recently invited

by Mayor William A. Bell to the Birmingham Crossplex in order to help design the city’s newest playground. Some of their ideas and designs will be incorporated into the new Fairview Park playground to be built later on this year in conjunction with the KABOOM! Organization, PNC Bank, and the City of Birmingham.

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membership YMCA Life Skills column onLeslie pageLazaro, 5, discussing how todirector get theof most out of a Pelham expands on her Life Skills column on pageday YMCA membership. From health coaching and Mobile Fit, to summer 5, discussing howdiscusses to get thehow most out ofcan a YMCA camp and family movie nights, Leslie anyone find a membership.

From health coaching and Mobile Fit, welcoming and nurturing home away from home at the YMCA. to summer day camp and family movie nights, Leslie discusses how anyone can find a welcoming and nurturing home away from home at the YMCA.

LIFESKILLS

TRX Suspension Training

YMCA Alabaster Healthy Lifestyles Director, Dana Harmon, talks about the new TRX Suspension Training system. A suspension-based fitness system, TRX training allows an exerciser to use his/her own body weight in an innovative program that builds muscle, bone density, and core strength, as well as cardiovascular endurance and flexibility.

LifeSkills HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR NEW YMCA MEMBERSHIP BE QUICK AND MOBILE When you join the YMCA you will receive a QuickStart orientation with one of our health coaches who will sit down and talk to you about your wellness goals, your interests, and your specific challenges.

Your coach will also set you up on Mobile Fit, a computer-based program which helps design a specific wellness plan and also adds an extra layer of accountability.

DON’T GO IT ALONE When you join the YMCA for the first time, we understand there is a learning curve and that it can be easy to become intimated and overwhelmed.

However, one of the Personal Trainers at Pelham is even known to jump in the pool or on a spin bike with new members so they don’t have to go it alone! At YMCA branches throughout Birmingham, personal trainers, health coaches, dieticians, and other staff members are always available to encourage, motivate, and challenge you.

INCLUDE YOUR FAMILY I love summer time because to me, it’s not a YMCA if there aren’t children laughing and singing camp songs throughout the branch. Many families turn to the Y to teach their children skills and character through our Youth Sports programs, swim lessons or child care programs. At YMCA Pelham we offer opportunities every month for families to have healthy, active time together through family nights, free holiday events like Halloween at the Y or pancakes with Santa, and in the summer, every Friday night is movie night where families can enjoy popcorn and a flick by the pool.

Leslie Lazaro, Membership Director, YMCA Pelham

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 5

Excited About the Health of New President/CEO Stan Law says the future is On February 1, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham welcomed new President/CEO, Stan Law. He is the first new association head in 16 years. A native of Charlotte, where he grew up in the YMCA, Law has worked at Ys in Charlotte, Washington D.C., and, most recently, Cincinnati. Law brings to Birmingham 23 years of professional YMCA experience and is excited about the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead.

After a month into his new position, he offered his perspective of our YMCA, the future of the association, and how the YMCA can make an even greater impact in the communities we serve.

New President/CEO Stan Law

What are your initial impressions?

I think the health of our YMCA is really strong in so many ways.

It’s a well-run operation and has been for many, many years. There is a strong volunteer base and our volunteers are committed to what we are about and where they can lead us. And, I’ve been very impressed with the committed staff leadership as well. Our branches are well run, our impact on the people we serve is certainly more than commendable, and I’m really excited about the health of our organization.

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What do you see as strengths of the association?

Our reputation in the community is very strong. I think people understand that the YMCA makes a great impact on the people that we serve. I think our health and wellness initiatives are good. We have a really strong impact in the whole health and wellness area including our Diabetes Prevention Program. We also have an opportunity to serve greater Birmingham because our facilities are so geographically centered. I’m also impressed with our youth and family programming.

Family is a big, important piece of the YMCA; I think programming in that area is a strength.

the Organization bright at the Birmingham Y What do you see as our greatest challenges?

I think our biggest challenge is to help people really understand who we are. I think people perceive us as an organization that serves children and families through health and wellness and through day camp and swimming, but the Y can be so much more. We have so much ability to make an impact on the community outside of our four walls. For instance, how do we address achievement gaps, how do we serve seniors, and how do we really get engaged in this community?

So the Y can make an impact even where there is no building?

I think the Y has an ability to serve communities whether we have a physical facility or not. I remember in Charlotte we did something called “Y In Your Community Days”, where we took vans of toys, sports equipment and activities into the community and had a Saturday full of fun and games in an area where we didn’t have a YMCA. I think that there are so many churches and community centers that may be better positioned physically, but how do we partner with those organizations to bring YMCA services into communities we’re currently not serving?

How do you see the YMCA taking a leadership role in the community?

I think my objective is to meet with every community leader to help me understand where the challenges and opportunities are in the greater Birmingham area. I know the YMCA wants to be a partner in serving this community in new ways. I know that we would love to expand our Diabetes Prevention Program across the greater Birmingham area and other programs. I don’t want to be too specific, but I think there’s an opportunity for the YMCA to partner with other organizations to really make an impact.

OUR BRANCHES ARE WELL RUN, OUR IMPACT ON THE PEOPLE WE SERVE IS CERTAINLY MORE THAN COMMENDABLE, AND I’M REALLY EXCITED ABOUT THE HEALTH OF OUR ORGANIZATION.

(Above), new President/CEO Stan Law and wife, Anita.

Urban impact is a popular phrase now; what kind of role can the Y take?

I think all of our branches—but particularly our smaller/urban branches—really need to get out in the community to better understand where the opportunities are. There is an exercise called asset mapping where an organization plots out where its physical assets are located so that they can begin to understand who’s providing what and where the gaps are so that we can provide new services. The YMCA does not need to be tied to its four walls, and the reality is our smaller branches, particularly our more urban branches, are more of a community organization than just a facility.

How do more traditional branches fit into this picture?

In many ways the YMCA is like a church. We can be so focused on our membership that we may forget we’re here to serve the whole community. I see all of our branches getting out into their community and figuring out exactly how we serve. Each of our YMCAs have great assets and we need to make sure we are utilizing those assets and partnering with other organizations to try to leverage those resources so we can do the mission of the YMCA, which is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

For more of Stan Law’s comments, listen or download the podcast episode “Stan Law Interview” at iTunes, or online at ymcabham.org/ylifepodcasts.

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 7

SERVING UP

SOME SUMMER FUN

Tennis is a game that can be enjoyed for a lifetime but there are no reasons to wait until middle age to learn to play. Three branches of the YMCA of Greater Birmingham – Greystone, Mountain Brook and Trussville – offer spring and summer tennis programs for children as young as five years old. Even if your little one is barely taller than the typical tennis racquet, children of all abilities can develop court skills while making new friends and having a blast in the process.

GREYSTONE

Summer Tennis Program Begins June 3 | Monday-Thursday 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with lunch at 11:30.

Head tennis pro, Cain Mashego, has designed this tennis camp for beginner through advanced level players. Kids will get plenty of tennis instruction, play games and compete against players on the same level. Players will also be introduced to Quick Start Tennis, the fastest way for beginners to learn the game of tennis.

CONTACT Cain Mashego at 566-6027 or cmashego@ymcabham.org.

MOUNTAIN BROOK

Summer Junior Tennis Camps Tennis pros, Bob Cianchetti and Joe Lane, teach the very basics of the game for the young beginner as they try to match strategy to the advanced youth player during these summer tennis camps.

Quickstart Tennis Ages 6 and under | Monday and Wednesday, 1-2 p.m.

Lessons focus on basic forehand and backhand strokes and technique.

Quickstart Tennis Ages 8 and under | Tuesday and Thursday, 1-2 p.m.

Lessons begin to focus on advanced stroke technique and play.

Quickstart Tennis Ages 10 and under | Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, 2-3 p.m.

At this age lessons build on the stroke techniques and begin adding instruction on the rules of the game and playing points.

Performance 101 | Tuesday and Thursday, 3-4 p.m.

This program is for the child who would like to begin playing competitive level tennis. Instruction focuses on playing points, game play and serving for points.

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Performance Tournament | Tuesday-Thursdays, 4-5:30 p.m.

A tennis program for an advanced youth player competing in tournaments and other high-level events.

After School Junior Clinics Tennis pros, Bob Cianchetti and Joe Lane, take a different approach to after school education with these youth tennis clinics. Weekdays in April and May beginning at 3:30 p.m.

All youth level instruction at YMCA Mountain Brook is conducted on the indoor tennis courts.

CONTACT the tennis desk at 870-3930.

TRUSSVILLE

Juniors Summer Tennis Begins June 3 | Monday-Thursday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Head tennis pro, Pam Wildt, and assistant tennis pro, Antonia Nugent, have designed specific tennis camps for young children all the way through advanced tournament level players. Kids will get plenty of tennis instruction, drills, conditioning and core exercises, games and competing against players on the same level.

Age 8 and under | 36 foot courts with little nets and low compression balls.

Age 10 and under | 60 foot courts with low compression balls USTA Junior Team Tennis for both age groups.

YMCA Trussville also has two USTA 10 and Under Teams playing this spring, with hopes to build on those for the summer. It’s a great way for young kids to play tennis on a scaled down court. All levels are welcome.

CONTACT Pam Wildt, head tennis pro, at 655-2224 or at pwildt@ymcabham.org.

MAKING MEMORIES… SUMMER 2013

U O Y R FO E D A M S A W T A H T N FU R SUMME

THINGS WE VALUE AT Y CAMP: SAFETY FIRST • • • • •

Low staff to child ratios Campers are assigned a specific leader within camp Monitored sign-in/sign-out Staff training Safety standards

FUN ASSET BUILDING ACTIVITIES • • • • •

Multitude of outdoor activities Field trips Swimming or water activities Special events Positive adult role models

PARENT COMMUNICATION • • • •

WHY YOUR CHILD BELONGS AT THE Y:

•

OUR CORE VALUES. We make our core values—caring, honesty, respect and responsibility—part of everything we do.

•

Parents receive weekly highlight sheets with activity schedule and special reminders Parents can communicate with staff to help each child have a great experience Our staff will let you know about your child’s successes and any problems We conduct evaluations for feedback throughout the summer Leadership team available by phone or email to answer questions We keep your personal information confidential

OUR COMMITMENT. We plan our programs around essential elements to help kids grow up caring and responsible. We call these elements “Developmental Assets.”

OUR STAFF. We are caring, competent and experienced. Our training includes camp safety, activity planning, CPR, First Aid, and more, making your child’s experience both safe and fun.

LOW CAMP STAFF/CHILD RATIOS. 1:10 entering grades K-3

1:12 entering grades 4-9 OUR PROMISE. No child is denied access due to inability to pay.

OUR PLEDGE. We are dedicated to making you and your child’s experiences at the Y extraordinary. At the end of the day, your child will come home with stories of a funfilled and fabulous day.

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 9

OUR CAMP IS PERFECT FOR

YMCA NAME

MAKING MEMORIES BRANCH MATRIX: SUM ALABASTER GREYSTONE

HOOVER

ymcabham.org/hoover

ymcabham.org/northeast

PELHAM

ymcabham.org/greystone

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

A lifetime of friendships

Kids who love to go!

New experiences, adventure, and outdoor fun

Making true friends

Making friends

ymcabham.org/pelham

TOP3

1. NEW FRIENDSHIPS: Amidst the fun of camp games, songs, swimming and talent shows, campers meet new friends.

TOP3 TOP3

TOP 3 REASONS TO COME HERE

NORTHEAST

ymcabham.org/alabaster

Adventure! -We play, swim, explore and travel.

Memories! – You never forget the fun and friendships from summer camp.

Life! – The camp environment teaches you about sportsmanship, working together, health and self-esteem as you explore the world around you.

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1. Field trips, field trips, field trips 2. Children in traditional camp will get to spend one day per week at the movies, one at YMCA Camp Hargis, one at the park, one day a week on a fun-filled field trip.

3. Traditional camp not for you? Check out our sports or specialty camp selections, there is something for everyone!

TOP3

1. Happy, tired campers!

Most fall asleep in the car on the way home, so I hear. They stay active and busy while they’re in our care.

2. Happy and wellinformed parents.

Parent communication is a top priority for us, and attention to safety and low ratios give parents peace of mind to leave their child in our program.

3. New experiences for each camper without the high cost. Our campers travel all over the southeast to visit some of the best field trip locations.

TOP3 2. SELF DISCOVERY: While being away from the routine back home, youth have a chance to learn new skills, and develop confidence and independence by taking on new responsibilities and challenges.

3. CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: Providing service and leadership opportunities for young people fosters youth leadership, builds community, and selfdiscovery.

Designed with kids in mind, Pelham offers everything from Icky sticky Science, to all girls Fashionista camp.

Every camper is known by name, even given silly nicknames!

Camps have a diverse set of kids, from those who are from out of the country, to special needs, to the kid next door. It’s the differences in our campers that make camp fun.

MER 2013 FUN THAT WAS MADE FOR YOU SHADES VALLEY

TRUSSVILLE

ymcabham.org/trussville

VESTAVIA

ymcabham.org/vestavia

ymcabham.org/ shadesvalley

WESTERN AREA

ymcabham.org/western

YOUTH CENTER ymcabham.org/ youthcenter

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

PERFECT FOR

EVERYONE!

Making and building friendships

The young explorer!

Reaching out in the community

Youth Development at every age

TOP3

TOP3

1. Giving back to the community through service projects.

1. Field trips are our specialty. Campers have lots of choices!

TOP3

1. Summer Learning Program- assists rising third and fourth graders who need enrichment in reading and math. This program is designed in partnership with Better Basics to help students who struggle, to prevent a summer learning loss.

2. Splash & Sports Camps- help kids advance their athletic abilities and develop teamwork and sportsmanship. They also develop skills that help them become part of recreational and school teams.

3. Learn to Swim and Gain the World- Our goal is to ensure that every camper will learn to swim.

TOP3 2. Weekly day camp themes are always popular, because they indicate what activities campers will do every day.

Enjoy discovering clues and artifacts about Birmingham’s past while zip-lining and exploring Red Mountain Park in our NEW Archaeology Camp!

Discover the superhero in you during our Superhero Themed week of Traditional Camp. Campers will create their very own superhero – right down to their special powers and costume!

3. Campers will talk about the unique traditions they learn at the Trussville YMCA.

Learn the basics of the game, enhance your skills, and improve your technique all while having a blast at one of our Sports Camps!

TOP3 2. Campers learn educational life skills like finances, community and family awareness, job skills, volunteerism and service learning in a fun, friendly environment.

3. Y Higher Learning Initiative- Campers are encouraged to set goals for pursuing higher education.

1. Teens enjoy life skill enrichment, mentoring, sports tournaments, and arcade games; as well as weekly fieldtrips catered to their interests.

2. Our 4-year-old “minicampers” experience all the excitement of “big kid” camp in a condensed time frame. This allows them to make a steady transition from daycare to summer day camp.

3. Traditional campers are always excited at the Youth Center’s diverse programming that creates a spark and holds the interest of the young athletes, scholars, and performing artists.

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 11

OTHER SUMMER 2013 PROGRAMS The traditional notion of a typical summer YMCA day camp is swimming, sports and loads of fun. However, the Birmingham YMCA has plenty more to offer your child when school lets out this May. It’s a big, wide world full of interesting people to meet, exciting cultures to explore, and activities to try. Below is just a sample of what your children can experience at the YMCA this summer. For more information, go online to ymcabham.org and click on your neighborhood branch.

CAMP COSBY

NORTHEAST

ARMY RESERVE ENRICHMENT CAMP (AREC) Since 2008 YMCA Camp Cosby has hosted the Army Reserve Enrichment Camp, a five-to-seven day camping experience for the children of deployed or wounded soldiers. Sponsored by the Army Reserve, AREC was started as a way to support and build a sense of community in children and youth during a stressful time in their young lives.

SUMMER LEARNING DAY CAMP A special day camp experience for children in third and fourth grades, the Summer Learning Day Camp is a five-week program that features rigorous instruction in reading and math. Led by certified teachers, children enrolled in the camp spend the morning jump starting their education by developing valuable skills that will help them succeed when school resumes in the fall. The camp includes field trips to significant, educationally important places throughout the summer and all children are tested before and after the camp in order to measure results.

During their time at camp AREC youth participate in activities like water skiing, canoeing, mini-bike riding, and horseback riding, while making new friends who are also dealing with similar life circumstances. The program helps reduce the feelings of isolation common in Army Reserve youth, while helping them enhance their leadership skills, independence, self-esteem and sense of adventure.

“As the child of a soldier with a dad who was deployed, I can honestly say that the Reserve program and Camp Cosby helped me get through the tough year without him,” said AREC camper Lexi Loyd. “I met friends who were going through the same thing I was and I still talk to them very often. Camp Cosby made a huge impact on my life and I love it like crazy.”

ALABASTER COOKING CAMP Campers learn to create healthy and delicious meals and snacks in this camp combining the creativity and artistic fun of being in the kitchen.

GREYSTONE WESTERN TRAILS: HORSE BACK RIDING A new western camp held at a local horse ranch, offering learning experiences on horsemanship such as taking care of horses and ponies, tacking and grooming, and the various techniques of riding.

HARGIS MOUNTAIN BIKING Campers will learn general biking safety, proper mountain biking techniques over obstacles and trails at beautiful Hargis Retreat in Shelby County.

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and

WAIT ... THERE’S MORE!

HOOVER POLYMERS AND POTIONS Campers will make some awesome slimy, goopy concoctions and some powerful potions. Exploring the properties of matter has never been so much fun. Campers will travel to the McWane Center for a portion of their day.

PELHAM DUCT TAPE CAMP Campers will learn to take tape to another level in this camp examining the strong and sticky properties of Duct Tape.

Campers will make crafts like rockets, clothes, and cars.

TRUSSVILLE DO IT YOURSELF CAMP Campers will spend time on our lakes and ponds learning about fishing techniques, conservation, tying flies, and jogs as well as getting plenty of practice fishing. The camp will give children the opportunity to have fun while being educated on local habitats and ethical practices.

YOUTH CENTER SUMMER SPORTS CAMP Children of all ages will get an introduction to a variety of sports during this innovative camp. From team sports like basketball and baseball, to individual sports, such as martial arts and tennis, each child will receive expert instruction by qualified and caring coaches.

VESTAVIA CHEER/ SPIRIT CAMP Children will learn to dance, cheer and support their team in this fun and peppy camp. Campers will learn half time dances, cheers, chants and jumps from professional skills coaches.

WESTERN AREA DRAMA CAMP Drama camp provides young actors an opportunity to experience the wonder and detail of theater performance.

Campers will be introduced to many aspects of theater, including theater games, improvisation, warm-ups, concentration exercises, voice and diction, terminology, acting and stage production.

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 13

FOR YOUTH

DEVELOPMENT

FOR

FOR HEALTHY LIVING

FOR SOCIAL

RESPONSIBILTY

VOLUNTEER

YMCA VOLUNTEERS FROM EVERY BRANCH, TO BE RECOGNIZED FOR THEIR ACHIEVEMENT/IMPACT AT APRIL 16 EVENT. Our YMCA could not be for youth development, for healthy living, and for social responsibility, if it was not for the volunteers who bring our mission and vision to life every day, and at every branch across the association.

They will be recognized at the annual awards event this month; an event hosted by the association’s Junior Board.

Here’s a sneak peek at adults and young people who volunteer from Alabaster to the Youth Center, and who make a difference every day, and who will be recognized at the Birmingham Museum of Art.

ALABASTER

DOWNTOWN YMCA

YMCA HARGIS RETREAT

ADULT VOLUNTEER: David DeLoach Coach DeLoach went into neighborhoods and introduced YMCA youth soccer to new families, who signed up their kids to join the team.

ADULT VOLUNTEER: Mike Emert Long-time volunteer, Mike has devoted countless hours to the Downtown YMCA and its mission, bringing a much needed positive, “can-do” vision to the branch. He has never said, “It cannot be done.” He is the first to ask, “How can we make this happen?”

ADULT VOLUNTEER: Russ Morgan A three-year board member, Russ is Hargis’ 2013 Annual Campaign Chair.

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Madison Bierman After school program volunteer, Madison tutors, plays games and runs “club” activities in soccer, math, and science.

YMCA CAMP COSBY ADULT VOLUNTEER: Mike Sulhoff A Cosby alum, Mike works with the mini-bike program, and helps with building projects.

GREYSTONE YMCA ADULT VOLUNTEER: Peter Glenboski Ambassador for the branch Campaign for a Healthy Community, “Mr. Pete” has a smile and thoughtful words for everyone. Virtually every member knows him; that is why his participation in the campaign is key.

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Victoria Johnson Victoria is a full time summer day camp volunteer, who has become, over the past two years, an excellent role model for young day campers.

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YOUTH VOLUNTEER Tommy Kulkis Tommy spent the summer becoming one of our campers favorite Leaders in Training; his goal was to give the campers the same experience he had when he came to camp.

HOOVER YMCA ADULT VOLUNTEER: Molly McGregor Member of Board Steering Committee, Molly came to welcome us and offer her years of experience and knowledge, while we were still in the “trailer.” She soon became instrumental in helping us Hooverites with one very important task, developing our first Board of Directors.

MOUNTAIN BROOK YMCA

SHADES VALLEY YMCA

ADULT VOLUNTEER: Cecile Franklin Twenty-year member Cecile became an inspirational, spirit filled YMCA cheerleader when she joined the branch board three years ago. Some of her best work has been as a coach with Girls on the Run, an organization that uses running to help teenage girls learn live lessons.

ADULT VOLUNTEER: Dr. Mia Cowan Because of Mia’s volunteer leadership on the branch annual campaign, an additional 100 youth are engaging in programs at the Shades Valley YMCA. YOUTH VOLUNTEER: David King Summer day camp volunteer, David, wanted to

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Bria Dozier Pre-teen Bria has been a part of the YMCA since she was seven years old. Over the years, she blossomed into a beautiful, strong, and talented young lady. Bria was a key volunteer in assisting at the front desk, answering phones, greeting members and parents, and helping with summer camp.

RECOGNITION YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Emily A. Ryan Seventh grader Emily has been a playroom volunteer in ChildWatch for three years. Her motto: “I will not be on the phone or texting...I would rather play with your children!”

NORTHEAST YMCA ADULT VOLUNTEER: Jerenita Leavy Mrs. Leavy had a vision to increase computer literacy for children and adults, but had no place to offer her classes. She came to the YMCA to perhaps obtain some ideas on how to reach out to the community. What she left with was a schedule of classes at three urban YMCA branches and a plan to provide basic and advanced classes to adults and children in YMCA afterschool and summer day camp programs.

ensure that all participants had an awesome camp experience.

TRUSSVILLE YMCA ADULT VOLUNTEER: Sherry Butler For six years Sherry has been the go-to volunteer for the tennis program. She leads two tennis leagues, and works on the annual campaign through tennis members.

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Garret Terwilliger As a summer camp volunteer, Garret helped with parties, events, field trips, first aid, and what he enjoyed most, the kids.

VESTAVIA YMCA

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Randall Grayson A quiet force, 16-year-old Randal decided that in order to be at the YMCA happily, he needed to be a positive leader. As a result, younger campers and counselors have noticed that Randall is the “go-to” guy to get the job done.

ADULT VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR: Elizabeth Newman Coach Lizzy has a son and a daughter on the swim team, so she volunteered to be the assistant coach. She has made swim team fun for the swimmers and played an integral part in building the masters swim program.

PELHAM YMCA

WESTERN AREA YMCA

ADULT VOLUNTEER: Brian Crumpton As a member of the branch board, Brian has a work ethic to envy. He has chaired the branch annual campaign for the past two years, supported the golf tournament, and helped with Toys for Tots.

ADULT VOLUNTEERS: Track Club Parents Building a track club to help stem obesity was the hard part. The easy part: the support and commitment that has been shown by the parents of the runners. They don’t miss a race; they are a living example of the saying: Teamwork Makes it Happen!

YMCA YOUTH CENTER ADULT VOLUNTEER: Dr. Deno Posey One of the Youth Center’s most ardent supporters, Dr. Posey is adept at chairing a board meeting, volunteering his time to community projects we host, or using his comedic talents to drum up support for our programs.

YMCA JUNIOR BOARD Kelli Clarke-Solomon As part of the Junior Board’s first fund-raising effort, a “Corporate Player’s Ball,” Kelly became the “MVP” of the team that built the basketball tournament that would support water safety programs in underserved communities for children at risk of drowning.

YMCA PROGRAM VOLUNTEER Dr. Emily Boohaker, Chair, YMCA Diabetes Prevention Program Dr. Boohaker has offered consistent, clear guidance to the program and has helped build professional bridges between the YMCA and the Birmingham business, charitable, and health care communities.

YOUTH VOLUNTEER: Brittney Bell Volunteer camp counselor Brittney was “office girl,” a self-proclaimed title that kept her working behind the scenes on solutions to make the camp office run more efficiently.

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 15

WE MADE THEM NEW FOR YOU In January the Birmingham Y opened a new facility in Alabaster and celebrated the revitalization of another at Shades Valley, kicking off 2013 in style.

SV SHADES VALLEY: For over 40 years, the

SV

SV

Homewood-based branch has attended to the community in numerous ways from its beginning providing little more than youth sports programs on vacant plots of grass around town. Today, the new complex has something for everyone, including a beautiful new outdoor swimming pool with an accessible zero-depth entrance, a new fitness center with an amazing view of Highway 31, new colorful locker rooms and a new entrance and front desk that is warm and inviting. “We’re thrilled that we’ve been able to reinvest in this important asset,” said Dawn Pilleteri, membership director, “so the Shades Valley YMCA can continue providing life-changing programs and serve the needs of more kids and families in the area.”

ALABASTER: After serving the children of

AL

AL 16 | www.ymcabham.org

Alabaster for over 30 years in a small one-level building on 7th Street, the Alabaster YMCA has finally said ‘goodbye’ to the old and ‘hello’ to the new. On January 30 adults and children were introduced to the new YMCA Alabaster for the first time. The expansion to the facility on Plaza Circle acquired in 2010 brought adult fitnessoriented programming and children and youth programs under the same roof in a bright, fun and flexible new complex. The expanded branch now has new locker rooms, a new gymnasium/multi-purpose room, and, soon, a new swimming pool that will be the focal point for the new branch.

AL

CIRCUIT CONNECTING YOU TO THE BIRMINGHAM YMCA BRANCH BY BRANCH

YMCA Shades Valley

APRIL-JUNE 2013

205.870.9622

3551 Montgomery Highway Birmingham, AL 35209 ymcabham.org/SHADESVALLEY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Cham Norman

Circuit has always been about connecting you to the programs that are for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. We hope that connection is even easier now. By connecting you directly to the areas on our website—ymcabham.org —you can find all the details, all the dates, times, and branches for those programs, along with direct links to online registration. Look for ymcabham.org/ … and then the name of the program. Type it into your browser, and you’re there!

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Dawn Pilleteri

YMCA Trussville 5920 Valley Road Trussville, AL 35173

256.655.2224 ymcabham.org/TRUSSVILLE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Jerry Wang MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Wendy Newland

YMCA Vestavia 2086 Columbiana Road Vestavia Hills, AL 35216

205.823.0144 ymcabham.org/VESTAVIA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Susan Becker MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Clay Coleman

YMCA Western Area 1195 Bessemer Road Birmingham, AL 35228

205.923.1195

Directory YMCA Alabaster 117 Plaza Circle Alabaster, AL 35007

205.663.7240

ymcabham.org/WESTERNAREA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Terri A. Harvill

YMCA GREYSTONE

YMCA Mountain Brook

5414 Highway 280 Birmingham, AL 35242

2401 20th Place South Birmingham, AL 35223

205.981.0144

256.870.0144

ymcabham.org/ALABASTER

ymcabham.org/GREYSTONE

ymcabham.org/MOUNTAINBROOK

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Rhonda Elmore

Pat Tate

Michelle Oliver

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Carol Hamilton

Kristin Harris

Kristie Nix

YMCA Camp Cosby

YMCA Hargis Retreat

YMCA Northeast

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road Alpine, AL 35014

256.268.2007 ymcabham.org/CAMP COSBY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Casey

YMCA DOWNTOWN 2101 Fourth Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203

205.324.4563 ymcabham.org/DOWNTOWN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Christian Rieseberg MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Caroline Bundy

928 Hargis Drive Chelsea. AL 35043

628 Red Lane Road Birmingham, AL 35216

205.678.6512

205.833.7616

ymcabham.org/HARGISRETREAT

ymcabham.org/NORTHEAST

PROGRAM EXECUTIVE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kim Sharp

Terri A. Harvill

YMCA Hoover

YMCA Pelham

2250 John Hawkins Park Hoover, AL 35244

205.682.1399 ymcabham.org/HOOVER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Julie Broday MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Cindy Reams

YMCA YOUTH CENTER 2400 7th Avenue North Birmingham, AL 35203

205.324.1643 ymcabham.org/YOUTHCENTER PROGRAM EXECUTIVE

Anthony Sparks

ymcabham.org

2610 Pelham Parkway Pelham, AL 35124

205.664.9622 ymcabham.org/PELHAM EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Lane Vines MEMBERSHIP DIRECTOR

Leslie Lazaro

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 17

CIRCUIT YOUTH SPORTS:

EVERYBODY PLAYS, EVERYBODY WINS

YMCA Youth Sports emphasizes teamwork, good sportsmanship, self-esteem and a respect for one another. YMCA Youth Sports leagues are different from competitive club leagues in that everyone receives equal practice and play time. Parents and coaches support our kids with positive reinforcement.

Greystone, Pelham, Alabaster

SUMMER BASEBALL & SOFTBALL Registration, April 29-June 1

Hoover YMCA

CHEER SKILLS CLINIC

Three cheers for the Hoover Y-M-C-A! Learn basic cheer technique, cheer dance moves, jumps and light tumble (cheernastics) in a structured and FUN environment.

Check online for upcoming sessions or contact Kelly Kidd, kkidd@Ymcabham.org Northeast

YOUTH ALL SPORTS CLINIC

Sports include basketball, soccer, and flag football.

Contact Micah Hudson mhudson@ymcabham.org or 833-7616.

PELHAM YMCA

Tamara Harrelson 685.6505 or tharrelson@ymcabham.org

GREYSTONE YMCA George Becker 981.0144 or gbecker@ymcabham.org

ALABASTER YMCA

Trenae Leonard 663.7240 or tleonard@ymcabham.org Pelham

CHALLENGER SOCCER ACADEMY Registration, April 29May 25 Soccer camp led by professional British coaches.

Camp to be held week of June 10.

Contact Tamara Harrelson at tharrelson@ ymcabham.org

18 | www.ymcabham.org

WESTERN AREA YOUTH BASEBALL AND T-BALL

Currently registering boys and girls ages 4-15.

Contact Travis Stoves at tstoves@ymcabham.org or 923-1195

SUMMER SOCCER CLINIC

June 15, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Covering the techniques and fundamentals of soccer.

Each child will receive a YMCA T-Shirt.

Contact Travis Stoves at tstoves@ymcabham.org or 923-1195

YOUTH TRACK AND FIELD

PARENT’S NIGHT OUT ALABASTER YMCA

Third Friday of each month.

YMCA Members and Non-Members welcome April 19, Splash Party May 17, Hat Day in celebration of the Kentucky Derby June 21, First Day of Summer celebration

VESTAVIA YMCA

Second Friday of every month.

Registration Deadline, May 15 Ages 5-12. Season runs from May–August Contact Keesha Nelson at knelson@ymcabham.org or 923-1195

FOR YOUTH

HEALTHY LIVING Hoover YMCA

ACROBATICS/TUMBLING CLASS

FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHT TO PARTY

Learn basic acrobatic jumps and moves for dance and gymnastics, tumble that is skill appropriate-including but not limited to, rolls, cartwheels, round offs, back walkers-- and if ready, handsprings and flexibility exercises. Check online for upcoming sessions or contact Kelly Kidd, kkidd@ymcabham.org

VESTAVIA YMCA KIDS IN MOTION

VESTAVIA YMCA

Pool, party room, & Zumba parties

Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5-6 p.m.

Ages 5-13.

ALABASTER YMCA

Pool, Gymnasium, & party room parties

PELHAM YMCA Y ACTIVE YOUTH FITNESS PROGRAM Ages 7-13

Youth participate in sports, games, and general fitness activities.

KIDS LOVE FOOD CLASS

Free monthly nutrition class. Kids will learn basic nutrition in a fun interactive class lead by staff dietician, Kristen McManus. YMCA Members only.

Contact Kristen McManus at kmcmanus@ymcabham.org

DEVELOPMENT April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 19

CIRCUIT YMCABHAM.ORG/ GROUPEXERCISE Then use the online search, or click on your neighborhood YMCA link, to see complete offerings and to register online (when available).

Ask your friends to come back home to the Y! Tell them April is Alumni Month at the YMCA; we want to see all of our old friends again. We will waive the join fee for all returning Y members, whether they were a Y member in Birmingham or another city.

ADULT SPORTS

DOWNTOWN HOOPS FOR A HEALTHIER COMMUNITY April 5-7 Men’s Basketball Tournament to benefit 2013 Campaign for a Healthier Community Contact Jessica Morrison at 801-7235 or jmorrison@ymcabham.org

Northeast & Western Area

MEN’S BASKETBALL LEAGUE Games begin April 7.

Deadline to register April 1 Northeast: contact Micah Hudson at 833-7616 or mhudson@ymcabham.org Western Area: contact Travis Stoves at 923-1195 or tstoves@ymcabham.org Pelham Adult Men’s and Women’s Basketball Registration April 29-June 1 Games held on weekday evenings. Eight regular season games with a tournament for advancing teams.

Contact Tamara Harrelson at 685.6505 or tharrelson@ymcabham.org.

TRX SUSPENSION TRAINING

Alabaster, Greystone, Mountain Brook, and Pelham TRX Suspension training utilizes body weight exercises that build full-body strength, flexibility and your core all at the same time.

TRX FOR TENNIS: GREYSTONE Contact Megan Marquet at 981-0144.

BEGINNER TRX : MOUNTAIN BROOK Contact Lisa Hart at 445-2823, lhart@ymcabham.org.

SWIMMING

Mountain Brook, Trussville, Greystone

MASTERS SWIM RACE TO THE COURTHOUSE

Contact your local branch for schedules and pricing.

Alabaster

WOMEN ON WEIGHTS:

Saturday, June 22, 8 a.m.

New route for 2013. Register at www.Active.com or sign up at the Downtown Y.

GET READY FOR THE RACE: COUCH TO 5K TRAINING PROGRAM Program begins May 6 Seven-week program to prepare you to run the 2013 Race to the Courthouse on June 22. Led by certified running coach Danny Harralson.

Contact Amanda Reid at 801-7232 or areid@ymcabham.org.

Designed for beginner and intermediate exercisers.

Try It Thursday: 8:30 a.m. every week; try a different group exercise class.

EXPRESS BOOT CAMP: Tuesdays & Thursdays

BARREWORKS Available at Hoover and Mountain Brook and coming soon to Greystone.

FITNESS & GROUP EXERCISE NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING

Sessions with registered dieticians available at many YMCA branches.

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KICKBOXING WATER AEROBICS The pool is now open!

Contact Dana Harmon at 663-7240 or dharmon@ymcabham.org

DOWNTOWN SUMMER BOOT CAMP Registration begins June 3. Classes begin end of June.

Contact Amanda Reid at 801-7232 or areid@ymcabham.org.

FOR H

GREYSTONE YMCA Watch the schedule for upcoming changes: Barre classes and kids classes for the summer. ymcabham.org/gsgroupex

YOUR FIRST PILATES REFORMER CLASS IS FREE! We constantly add groups, introductory classes, and up the challenge level. ymcabham.org.gspilatesreformer

HOOVER Check online for upcoming sessions or contact Kelly Kidd, kkidd@ymcabham.org

ADULT NUTRITION CLASS: Free monthly class for YMCA members and their guests.

Contact Kristen McManus, kmcmanus@ymcabham.org

PERSONAL TRAINING: Achieve your goals in the shortest time possible.

ADULT CROSS TRAINING: Small groups use a variety of equipment including TRX straps, heavy bag, sand bags, kettle bells, heavy ropes and medicine balls.

TAI CHI: Fridays at 8 a.m.

MOUNTAIN BROOK CONTACT Lisa Hart: 445-2823 or lhart@ymcabham.org

MASSAGE THERAPY

fitness evaluation consisting of body fat, flexibility and strength analysis.

SELF DEFENSE: Learn the basics of self-defense from former police Sergeant Steve Young. Sessions begin on May 7 and July 9.

FRIDAY BOOT CAMP: Join Kerry Foster for Boot Camp every Friday at 8:45 a.m.

KINESIS ORIENTATION: Kinesis introduces a new way to exercise in gravity with resistance, exalting balance, and flexibility within a movement progression system.

KINESIS PHASE II: Intense fusion of strength & mobility training. Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m.

KINESIS MID DAY: Thursdays, 12:30 p.m.

NORTHEAST/WESTERN AREA ONSITE GROUP EXERCISE CLASSES Let’s bring fitness, wellness, and health experts to business or church! Zumba, Kickboxing, Cardio Energy, Boot Camp, Toning Classes and Walking/Running Groups are all available. Contact Keesha Nelson at 923-1195

PELHAM HOOP FOR FITNESS: Mondays at 9 a.m.

April 8 - 29

LES MILLS LAUNCH April 6, Body PUMP 8:10, BodySTEP 9:10, a.m., and BodyFLOW 10:15, a.m.

April 8 BodyATTACK 4:45 p.m.

TIME FOR MEAL PLANNING SEMINAR: April 9, 6 p.m.

by Appointment (at the fitness desk)

May

TACTICAL STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING: Be trained in

May 14, 6 p.m.

the same manner police and fire fighters are trained for the job utilizing sleds, fire hoses, ropes, tires, stair climbers and other functional equipment.

FUN RUN: Weekly 5 mile run from the branch on Mondays beginning at 5:30 p.m.

BODY COMPOSITION: Body fat test to determine your ratio of lean muscle to fat.

90/80 FITNESS SESSION: For $80 receive 90 minutes with a personal trainer. Session includes Polar

HEALTHY BACK CLASS: WATER BOOT CAMP: Demo May 4 9 a.m.

Contact Jennifer Dick at jdick@ymcabham.org June

JUNE JUMP ROPE CHALLENGE: Who jumps the longest?

June 1-16

VESTAVIA HEALTH COACHING: Trained staff will help you set goals, create action steps and advise you along the way. Register at the front desk.

FITNESS APPOINTMENT: Personal Trainers will teach you how to use equipment correctly and safely. Register at the front desk.

EAT SMART Nutrition Consultation: one on one Weight Management: group setting ymcabham.org/vehealthyliving

INTENSIFY YOUR WORKOUT: Ready for a new challenge? These offerings are guaranteed to intensify your workout: personal training, small group training and group exercise. ymcabham.org/vegroupex

YOUTH

Alabaster, Greystone, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Shades Valley

YOUTH FITNESS PROGRAMS Allows youth as young as 11 (depending on the branch) to learn how to safely use the fitness equipment. Upon completion of the program, participants are allowed to use the equipment with a parent present.

GREYSTONE SPEED, AGILITY AND STRENGTH CAMP

June 1-22, Mondays, 9 a.m.

June 3-24, Wednesdays, 6:30 p.m.

Children work in a small group with personal trainer, Tristen Pearson, in a one-hour workout that will help improve overall speed, agility and strength that are both safe and effective for this age group.

TAKE A RIDE: “S’IL VOUS PLAIT”

SHADES VALLEY KIDS-N-ACTION

HOOP FOR FITNESS

June 29-July 21 – All spin classes. Instructors take you on a unique cycling trip via the Tour de France from right here in Pelham. Train for a three-hour Spin-a-thon on July 20 to finish the tour.

KIDS YOGA: Wednesdays , 11:35 a.m.

Kids between the ages of 8-13 develop active, positive lifestyles while integrating knowledge and activity. Each day the instructor will introduce fun activities such as jumping jacks, scavenger hunts, and Wii Fit games.

EALTHY LIVING

April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 21

CIRCUIT

BIRMINGHAM YMCA SPONSORS LANDMARK CULTURAL PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBIT The Birmingham Islamic Society, along with the YMCA of Greater Birmingham; working in partnership with the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, the Birmingham Museum of Art, and Birmingham Holocaust Education Center have come together to bring the photographic exhibit “BESA, Muslims Who Saved Jews in World War II,” continues through June 30, 2013 in the David Vann Gallery of the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.

In Albania and Kosovo during World War II, Muslims sheltered, at grave risk to themselves and their families, not only the Jews of their cities and villages but also thousands of Jews fleeing the Nazis from other European countries. Presented here courtesy of Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion Museum, the exhibit is by renowned JewishAmerican photographer Norman Gershman.

For information on the exhibition, visit www.bcri.org

22 | www.ymcabham.org

MAKING SUMMER MEMORIES … FOR ALL YMCA Pelham will now be a fun, safe and special place for even more children this summer. The Pelham branch recently received a $10,000 grant from the National Inclusion Project, providing funding for children with special needs to be able to attend summer day camp. The funding will provide $1,000 in financial assistance for children with special needs and $9,000 for additional staffing to provide oneon-one care for these new campers. “I am so excited to see the vision the camp staff had of better serving children in our community who have nowhere else to go become a reality,” said Gabby Tyson, Pelham Childcare Director.

BIRMINGHAM YMCA PARTICIPATES IN DRUG TAKE-BACK DAY YMCA Greystone is an official drop off location for the 2013 Shelby County Drug Enforcement Task Force, Pelham Police Department and Shelby County Drug Free Coalition take-back day. The annual program’s aim is to collect any unused or expired over-the-counter or prescription medications for proper disposal.

Bring any over-the-counter or prescription medication for free disposal. No information is required at drop-off.

Saturday, April 27, 2013 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

FOR SOCIAL

MyMission:

Ed Coberly

YMCA Birmingham Pioneer

At the boys’ branch Coberly participated in youth sports and activities until he joined the military.

“I came out of the service and went to Howard College, majored in physical education and all that time I was a member of the YMCA as a resident,” Coberly said. “There were six floors of residence in the men’s building and all the years that I was in college I lived at the YMCA and served as assistant physical director.” There he worked under physical director, Joe Johnson, organizing basketball

‘‘

leagues and other activities for the Downtown Y members.

After graduating from college, Coberly worked briefly for YMCAs in Mississippi and Virginia, before returning to the Birmingham YMCA as the Metropolitan Program Director in the 1950s. It was during this time that Coberly oversaw the founding of what would become known as the Northeast YMCA in Roebuck, organizing a growing handful of small, independent YMCAs operating in communities such as East Lake, Huffman, Woodlawn and Tarrant into a unified branch.

“I took all of the YMCAs in the Eastern Section and I organized the Northeast Branch from the community Ys in that area,” said Coberly. “We worked the branch first out of a little office in East Lake and then out of a house that they used for the community YMCA in the park.”

‘‘

In 1923, a ten year-old Ed Coberly joined the Downtown YMCA’s boys’ branch. Eighty years later Mr. Coberly still makes his way to the Downtown Branch several days a week to exercise and visit with old friends. During the eight decades in between, Coberly – 90, and retired from the federal government less than a year – watched the Birmingham YMCA grow exponentially both as a member and an employee; he is the embodiment of ‘living history.’

I was founder of the Northeast Branch. I take pride in it.

RESPONSIBILTY April-June 2013 | YLife Birmingham | 23

YMCA OF BIRMINGHAM

2101 Fourth Avenue North Birmingham, Alabama 35203 www.ymcabham.org

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 1072 Birmingham, AL