Empowering Youth Through YMCA Programs
Representatives from the YMCA of Greater Houston attended the YUSA Boys and Young Men of Color (BYMOC) National Convention in Washington D.C. last week. Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris, addressed the delegation to provide her inspiration and appreciation for the work of the initiative. https://youtu.be/JrJJM38KWcE The BYMOC strategy is preparing and empowering these youths to be our nation's next generation of leaders and thinkers. #YBYMOC #YMCA #BYMOC #WEAREMBK
Lead Like Jesus — Truth and Honesty
The extension of Grace is one of the most profound concepts to fathom. Unmerited favor from God seems hard to reconcile in our human mind. It is not conditioned but freely given despite our failures or shortcomings. This extension of grace is only possible because the love of Christ is relentless. Grace is the expression of God’s incredible love. We are given a deep pure and undying love as God’s children which shows in the nail pierced hands of Jesus. Stretched east to west. So, the question we have as believers is, where do we integrate honesty? Honesty is often [...]
Personal Growth Through YMCA Summer Day Camp
Embracing the Importance of Personal Growth through Summer Day Camp Experiences Author: Detra Alton, MBA Summer has a magical way of bringing children joy, adventure, and the chance to create cherished memories. For our family, this summer was particularly special as our two daughters, aged 10 and 8, embarked on their first-ever summer day camp journey with the YMCA of Greater Houston Summer Day Camp program. With a mix of skepticism and excitement, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of summer day camp experiences in shaping young minds and fostering personal growth. From the moment my girls set foot [...]
YMCA of Greater Houston Appoints Rick Cruz as COO
YMCA OF GREATER HOUSTON APPOINTS RICK CRUZ AS NEW CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Cruz to strengthen YMCA offerings and expand reach to more individuals and families across Houston HOUSTON (July 18, 2023) – The YMCA of Greater Houston is pleased to welcome Rick Cruz as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Cruz will work directly with President and CEO Stephen Ives to oversee the varied impactful programming the YMCA offers the community, including health and fitness centers, youth programming, swimming, childcare, camps, refugee resettlement and services that strengthen the community. As a member of the leadership team, Rick Cruz will support the YMCA [...]
Impact in Action — YMCA Miracle League
Impact in Action - Joshua's Story I remember the day I got a note from Joshua’s Kinder teacher in 2012 – it said, “Ms. Lima take a look at this sport opportunity for children with special needs. I think Joshua would do great at baseball!” Joshua has Down Syndrome and was 5 years old back then. He was and eager and curious to learn all about sports. I was excited to see an organization create a program where my child wouldn’t be judged and be given the opportunity to grow, socialize and learn about America’s favorite pastime! I clearly remember [...]
YMCA Camp Cullen Alumni — Memories Made at Camp
Memories Made at YMCA Camp Cullen – Thoughts from an Alumni Author: Detra Alton, MBA As the summertime approaches, many parents are trying to make summer decisions for their children. There are so many options to choose from, such as summer day camps, educational camps, summer school and hanging out at the grandparents’ house all summer. Have you ever thought about sending your child/children to a weeklong overnight summer camp? The YMCA of Greater Houston has been committed to enriching the lives of youth and families through camping at YMCA Camp Cullen for almost 50 years. The living history of [...]
Five Tips for Getting Your Heart Healthy
Five Tips for Getting Your Heart Healthy During American Heart Month February is American Heart Month, and with recently published research indicating blood pressure control has worsened in both men and women since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to use this month to get a blood pressure screening and focus on becoming heart healthy. Below are tips for the whole family to become heart healthy this February. 1. Get Moving: Being physically active every day is not only fun, it can also improve the function of your heart. Plan and schedule opportunities for active play; for example, [...]
Out With the Old Habits, In With the New
Out With the Old (Habits) & In With the New (Habits) The start of the new year is a great time to take a look at all of your current habits. Are there any habits you currently have that can be tweaked, even just a little bit, in order to turn them into healthy habits? We’re happy to share at least four healthy habits you can begin today to make sure your 2023 is off to a great start! 1. Stop hitting snooze. Snooze, sleep, repeat. Studies have shown that the fight against getting out of bed as soon as your alarm [...]
5 Tips for a More Mindful Holiday Season
5 Tips for a (More) Mindful Holiday Season The holiday season is here! Between twinkling lights, festive meals, and spending time with loved ones, this time of year can bring much warmth, joy, and love. But, with it can also come stresses like finding just the right gifts, preparing the house for company, cooking holiday meals, or perhaps even managing difficult conversations around the dinner table. Mindfulness—or bringing your attention fully into the present moment—can help alleviate some of this stress, so you can experience more happiness yourself as you seek to bring holiday joy to others. Here are 5 [...]
The Miracle League — A Parent’s Story of Hope and Belonging
The Miracle League - A Parent’s Champion of Hope, Belonging and Acceptance By Detra Alton, As the announcer calls the next batter’s name the crowd begins to clap and cheer, and the batter’s choice of walkup music begins to play in the background as she approaches the plate. She is a little hesitant at first as loud sounds can sometimes be a sensory barrier for her, but the volunteer buddy reassures her that all is well while giving her a little nudge towards the plate. The volunteer buddy takes a second to ensure the tee is the right height [...]
