When the YMCA of Metro Atlanta was first founded in 1858, the operation was solely run by volunteers. Today, 165 years later, volunteers continue to be the backbone of the Y. One of the most remarkable examples of this happens every week in Cobb County. A core group of volunteers led by Gayle Battersby, Community Engagement Director of the McCleskey Family Y, bring groceries and resources to nearly 900 families each week at a variety of locations. Joining Gayle are two volunteers Kim Harrison and Chris Hartley, who delve into this remarkable initiative, detailing its execution, and the personal impact volunteering has made on their lives.
IN THIS EPISODE:
[3:37] Gayle describes the scope of what she and her volunteers do on a weekly basis.
[5:51] Kim shares how she became involved in food distribution through the Y.
[7:47] Chris explains how she began working in the food distribution program.
[12:17] Gayle describes how to get involved as a volunteer and why volunteering matters.
[15:36] Kim relates how this program relieves the school system of the burden of feeding all the children. They have a partner in the Y.
[16:46] Gayle shares that what she does is a team effort.
[17:46] Chris discusses the video she created at the Brumby School.
[22:25] Gayle, Kim and Chris outline the most significant challenges they face as they serve and what is most fulfilling.
[29:04] The panelists share their Y stories.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
The food distribution program could only exist with volunteers. If this episode has touched your heart, contact Gayle and volunteer your time to this worthwhile cause.
The Y is not just a swim gym. The Y is intricately involved in the community, and food distribution is just one of the ways the Y serves neighborhoods.
Volunteering doesn't just help the people you begin to serve. It changes who you are. What could be better than that? Why not volunteer at the Y?
RESOURCE LINKS:
The Y at Brumby Elementary Youtube Video
