Y Heroes: Sarah Smith, Eastern Shore Family YMCA

Sarah Smith Joined the YMCA in 2011 soon after retiring. Since then, the Y has given her a place not only to exercise but to belong to a group of people and have fun every day. She joined the Y with a goal to lose weight and stay fit and she got so much more. From the time she joined the Y, Sarah has been a steady presence in the facility. She is known for her sense of humor and is beloved by staff and members alike.  Whether it’s a fitness class, walking the track, or working out in the fitness center, hardly a day goes by when we don’t see Sarah at the Y. Because of the Y, Sarah has not only gained the confidence, the health, and the fitness she deserves, she has also built many friendships with a great group of people. Sarah is one of those people that you notice when she is not there. She is always ready with a smile and her smile is infectious.

When Sarah Joined the Y she was over 200lbs and wearing a size 20. In the years since she has dropped 6 sizes to a size 14 and reduced the amount of medication she has to take.She is very representative of the active older adult community that makes the YMCA a second home. Without the YMCA and the open doors program, many retirees like Sarah wouldn’t have a place on the Eastern Shore to exercise and make connections. It is through the generosity of people in our community that we are able to do the great work we do on the Shore to help our friends and neighbors.

As a part of our 2017 Annual Giving Campaign, we are showcasing a different person (or family) at each of our family centers. We are calling this our Y Heroes project. This video platform is a way for us to highlight people and/or program areas that have been positively impacted by the dollars we raise as a non-profit organization and relate back to each community our Association serves.

When you give to the Y, you continue to strengthen our community and move us all forward. As the nation’s leading nonprofit for youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y uses your gift to make a meaningful, enduring impact right in your own neighborhood. Your gift ensures that the Y’s programs and services will be open to all. Consider making a gift today. www.ymcashr.org/GIVE

For more information about how you can help, contact Annie Vogt at (757) 962-5519.