Volunteers at the Y: Linda’s Story
When Linda retired, she wasn’t looking for another job. She was looking for a community. What she found at the YMCA changed her life in ways she never expected.
“The Y was a good fit for me,” Linda says. “It combined the fitness and social connection I was looking for.”
Eleven years later, Linda has become one of the Y’s most dedicated volunteers. At 65, she teaches Aquafit classes from the pool deck, inspiring others through her energy, encouragement, and lived experience.
Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis at just 18, Linda knows firsthand what it means to face physical challenges. When she first began volunteering, she could barely manage a minute on the treadmill. She started by teaching in the water, gradually building her strength and confidence until one day she realized she was leading a full 45-minute class from the deck.
“I am in the best shape of my life,” she says.
But Linda’s impact reaches far beyond her own transformation. Every class she teaches reflects the same encouragement and sense of belonging that the Y once gave her. The pool, she says, is her happy place and anyone who takes one of her classes can see why.
“I love teaching and seeing the changes it makes,” she says. “The social atmosphere is wonderful. Everyone appreciates the class and works hard to get fit.”
For Linda, volunteering isn’t just something she does, it’s something that keeps her thriving. It keeps her physically active, mentally engaged, and deeply connected to the community that welcomed her when she needed it most.
Her advice for anyone considering volunteering at the Y is simple:
“Find your niche. The Y has so much to offer.”
About the YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick
The YMCA of Southwestern New Brunswick is a charity dedicated to building healthy, connected communities where everyone belongs. Through health and wellness, newcomer support, child and youth development, and community programs, we remove barriers, stand against racism and exclusion, and ensure people of all backgrounds have the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Help Us Tell More Stories
If you’re reading this and someone from our YMCA community comes to mind whose story deserves to be told, we’d love to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team and share their story so we can continue highlighting the voices, moments, and impact that make our YMCA so special.