If you’re looking for us, we’re probably still talking about the Fall Staff Rally!
From the minute we walked in, it was familiar faces, belly laughs, and amazing conversations. Soooo basically, exactly our kind of day!
And to everyone we got to see at the rally and who stopped by our booth, thank you for everything you do! Whether you were on stage, behind the scenes, or somewhere in between, we’re so lucky to know so many amazing YMCA leaders like YOU!
And speaking of amazing people... can we talk about Wendy Bonilla for a second?! She is BLAST to work with and made the whole day so much fun. Wendy, we just have to give you your flowers! You’re such an incredible person, and we loved working with you!
And we have to give a BIG congratulations to the people recognized at the rally! Drumroll please....
Brent Pentenburg of the YMCA of Rock River Valley received the Chief Award for Exemplary Cause-Driven Leadership, Jennifer Coronel of Tri-Town YMCA received the Emerging Leader Award, Cassie DeGuido of Bloomington-Normal YMCA received the Program Excellence Award, and Rebecca Cantu of Two Rivers YMCA received the Professional Achievement Award!
These awards are such a great reminder of what makes YMCA leaders so special: showing up for their communities, creating opportunities for others, leading with purpose, and always looking for ways to make their Y a little better. Congratulations to the winners! And to all the YMCA leaders doing that work every day, we see you, we appreciate you, and we’re cheering you on!
And since we were already celebrating all things YMCA, we had to appreciate one pretty cool piece of Y history: basketball was invented at a YMCA training school in Massachusetts in December 1891.
Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor at the YMCA International Training School in Springfield, created the game to keep students active indoors during the winter. He used a soccer ball and peach baskets, and the rest is history! More than 130 years later, the YMCA is still helping young people get involved in sports, build skills, and find opportunities on and off the court.
That spirit was on full display through the Illinois YMCA “The Dream Starts Here” initiative and statewide 2Ball competition, giving young athletes the chance to “Shoot for State” while opening the door to future opportunities in coaching, officiating, sports administration, and more. We got a sneak peak at the game at the Fall Staff Rally. Reach out to Wendy Bonilla for more information!
Looking for a fun way to celebrate your staff, members, or volunteers? Come hang with us at YShop! From everyday YMCA favorites and custom products to special anniversary merch, we’re always dreaming up fun ways to celebrate the people who make your Y so special.
Until next year! Thanks!