Charlene Dickens

During the COVID-19 closure of the Saint John Regional my life was effected in more ways than one. Having a Y membership means more than just a place to work out. The Y is my safe place. I can walk in the doors and feel completely at home and confident in my own skin.

Not having my happy place to go to or seeing all the smiling YMCA staff was really challenging for me. A large part of me joining the Y was to help me cope with my anxiety, when the doors reopened I was beyond grateful to walk in and be greeted by all the familiar faces.

The Y taught me how to love myself, how to see my worth and the importance of being humble. I am where and who I am today because of the Y. Because of the Y I am a better mom, friend and person.

When I signed up for a membership I didn’t know that I would be signing up to change my life completely. It’s not just a gym, it’s a place where the staff know you by name and are happy to see you everyday. Joining the Y was the best thing I’ve ever done and I am so happy to be part of the Y family.