Member to Volunteer- Sarah’s Story
Sarah Bridges joined the Y because it is affordable, but she explained that she stays at the Y because of the people.
“Joining the Y was one of the best decisions I have made for my health, not only physically, but mentally.”
As a busy student, completing her Masters in Applied Health Services Research, Sarah began researching fitness options that fit her lifestyle and allowed her to reach her personal health goals. She discovered the perfect fit at the Y. Throughout the past 12 months Sarah has exceeded the goals she set for herself, and is now helping others live a healthy life.
“When I began at the gym I was not comfortable going alone,” she said. “Trying to motivate myself to lift weights or run on a treadmill was difficult. It was the variety of classes that were available that ended up being a big deciding factor in me choosing the Y.”
Sarah explained how she joined with her mom, and the Aquafit classes were perfect for the mother and daughter duo to become physical active together.
“From the first day I joined I have felt welcomed and included,” Sarah said. “Even when I first began with no experience or confidence in my physical abilities, I always felt like I belonged in the Y family.”
Besides finding a new support network, which she now considers family, Sarah said the Y has also allowed her gain confidence in her fitness abilities. This confidence has now developed into a new role in her life as she begins to lead others in their health journey.
“I decided to become a Group Fitness Volunteer because I wanted to give back to the community that has given me so much,” Sarah explained during a weekend training to receive her MOSSA Group Power Certification. “Everyone that is involved here has made such a huge difference in my life, and I want the opportunity to do the same for others.”
“Everyone here genuinely cares about your health more than just being a member and paying the fee. The community is extremely welcoming and there really is something for everyone.”