“I started working here about four years ago. The YMCA has a special place in my heart. I took swim lessons at the Y as a kid and I’m thankful to the Y for making me a stronger swimmer. As a teenager, I went to sleepaway camp and got my lifeguard certification. When I came back home, it was suggested that I work at the Y as a lifeguard. I like the environment at the Y. I like that no one judges and that it’s a safe space where you can share opinions. It’s a family friendly place and it feels like we all have each other’s back. We all treat each other with respect regardless of religion or background. They also pay well at the YMCA. It meets my needs so I don’t need to go somewhere else to work. The people here are also my friends. When I’m asked who I hang out with, I just say I go to work and I work with people I love. I just click with the people here. Working here has really helped me open up more and talk to more people.”