“The YMCA has been part of my family’s journey since joining in 2012 and my girls have been on the swim team since 2021. I recently joined the Swim Team Parents Organization as the team’s Community Service Liaison. As a Clinical Psychologist and Girl Scout Troop Leader, I have significant experience in community service and I was excited about the opportunity to apply my skills to help our swimmers grow into well-rounded individuals.

Volunteering can build leadership, teamwork, and communication skills, as well as a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It also helps boost mood and reduce stress, which athletes can definitely benefit from. Swimmers can also learn more about areas of interest and meet people they would not have otherwise encountered. Last but certainly not least, swimmers had opportunities to help during Fanwood Scotch Plains YMCA events, giving back to the organization that has given them so much.

Over the past year, swim team members have made a meaningful impact across the community:

  • Partnered with 908 Visionaries to collect and distribute back-to-school supplies for students in need
  • Collected and donated over 200 Halloween costumes through partnerships with Jersey Cares and the Teen Parenting Program at Plainfield High School
  • Assembled and delivered more than 250 lunches to St. Joseph’s Food Pantry in Elizabeth ahead of Thanksgiving
  • Supported the Y’s MLK Day of Service by creating Valentine’s Day cards for veterans at the Lyons VA Medical Center

None of this work happens alone. We couldn’t have done this without the support of parents, swimmers, coaches, and Y staff. It’s been incredibly rewarding to work alongside such a dedicated group.

Being part of the Fanwood Scotch Plains YMCA and the Swim Team Parents Organization is so much more than the programs. I love being part of a community organization that lives its values every day: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

There’s no greater feeling than watching our kids grow—not just as athletes, but as students, teammates, and people. I hope the values and skills they develop here stay with them for life.”