Making a Positive Impact

"The Heart of the Matter" with a photo of John Baisden

The Heart of the Matter

Heart Health
John Baisden worked hard his whole life, including the last 20 years working outdoors, in all conditions, as a cable guy. (Cue the jokes!) But no one was laughing on the day that John discovered that his lungs were filling up with fluid due to bout with poison ivy that had gone internal.
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Two older women holding balls with the title of the article on the right

"It's finally time to care for me."

Silver Sneakers
At 75, Beverly Grubke (pictured above, right) who spent much of her life being defined as a caregiver, now proudly describes herself as being fine, foxy, and vivacious. Those who see her at the Y – almost every day – would certainly agree.
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Nate Smith

Honor. Courage. Commitment.

Mission Moments
The loss of his Dad could have derailed Nate Smith, but his commitment to family kept him on track.  Working to help pay the bills, Nate took a pause from school, that he later tackled – full speed ahead – to get his diploma.  This was his first step in pursuing a career that he’d dreamed of as a boy.
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Janice Coon

"God has given us a Gift."

Silver Sneakers
Admittedly, Janice Coon isn’t a fan of machine workouts.  Instead, this gregarious lady enjoys group exercise including Silver Sneakers, Zumba and Toning at the Firestone Park facility, described by her as a being a “warm Y.”
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Giving Them a Reason to Get Up

When you've been active all you life, you want to remain active.  The Y gives members like Mary and Mike a reason to get in gear - every day -- to see friends and be healthy. 

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Get Moving with this Mom

Ashley came to the Y looking for a little time for herself.  But, this energetic Mom found a whole new lease on life -- as well as a new career at the Y. 

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Grandma Penny and her Kids from Karen

Connecting immigrant children to a community of love, strong values and acceptance from all, was a goal of  Grandma Penny and her sister.  Add in gymnastics, soccer, swimming and horseback riding for a result that is life changing for everyone.

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The Wallace Family

Providing a caring place for children has been a core component of the Akron Area Y.  But, when kids love it so much that they want their birthday parties here ... well, that truly IS icing on the cake.

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