YMCA of Tuscaloosa Substack

A New Way to Stay Connected with the Y

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Mon, 31 Aug 2026 15:40:13 GMT

We’re making a change! Beginning October 1, we will no longer be using Substack for our YMCA of Tuscaloosa updates and communications.

We’re excited to be adopting a new program that will allow us to communicate with our members, supporters, and community more effectively and all in one place. If you have already been receiving emails from our new program, congrats! This will be an easy swap for you moving forward.

Are you not currently a YMCA member but want to keep receiving our updates? We’d love to stay connected with you! Simply email Jessica at jfair@ymcatusc.org and let us know you’d like to continue receiving YMCA communications. We’ll make sure you’re added to our new communication list.

And don’t worry, we are not deleting this account and its content. You will still be able to go back and watch existing interviews and impact videos as much as you would like.

Thank you for following along with us here on Substack and for being part of the YMCA of Tuscaloosa community. We’re looking forward to staying connected in this next chapter!

Thank you for being part of our Decade of Impact!

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 16:04:11 GMT

Thank you for being part of our Decade of Impact Week last week! 💙

Our celebration centered around the three areas at the heart of the YMCA’s mission: healthy living, youth development and social responsibility.

We were especially grateful to recognize the City of Tuscaloosa during our kickoff celebration and to celebrate the many donors and supporters who have invested in the Y and helped us reach this milestone.

And we couldn’t have done it without WAR Construction, our incredible sponsor for the week. Thank you for helping us celebrate our community!

As we look back on the last 10 years, we’re also looking ahead. Help us sustain the next 10 years of impact.

Donate

Thank you for believing in the YMCA and for being part of our story. We can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together in the next decade!

Why the YMCA Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Lea Yerby

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 16:00:46 GMT

In our latest interview, Dr. Lea Yerby, YMCA of Tuscaloosa Board Member and a professor focused on community health, shares her perspective on the role the YMCA plays in building a healthier, stronger community.

Her experience in public health and community-focused work offers a unique perspective on why organizations like the YMCA matter and why investing in community wellness creates an impact that reaches far beyond our walls.

As we look back on a decade in our Downtown home, conversations like this remind us that the YMCA’s greatest impact is ultimately measured in people.

🎥 Want to hear Dr. Yerby’s full perspective?

Watch the full interview below and hear why she believes the YMCA is an important part of the health and future of our community.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to bring services to families across West Alabama.

Donate Today

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

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Acceptance in August: Embracing Grace, Community, and One Another

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:02:15 GMT

At the YMCA, our monthly themes are reminders of the values that guide how we serve our members, our neighbors, and our communities. For August, we are focusing on Acceptance, a value that challenges us to look beyond differences, extend grace, and create spaces where people feel welcomed and valued for who they are.

YMCA of Tuscaloosa Board Member Judge Wade Drinkard (Ret.) offers a thoughtful reflection on acceptance through both a legal and spiritual lens. Drawing from his experience in the legal profession, Judge Drinkard explores the idea of acceptance as more than a formal agreement.

As you read this devotional, we invite you to reflect on how we can each practice acceptance in our daily lives: accepting God’s love for us, accepting ourselves with humility, and extending that same acceptance to those around us.

ACCEPTANCE! The YMCA theme for August is ACCEPTANCE. Being a member of the of the legal profession I immediately thought of contract law wherein one makes an offer that is accepted by another giving rise to a contract. But in this devotion I would like for us to consider something much deeper than a legal concept—that is a relational contract that in its simplest form involves our unconditional acceptance of others and them of us for who and what we are. And that starts with us, with ouselves. We all strive for, we seek acceptance by others in our relationships with them, no matter the form of that relationship. Admit it! You do and so do I. We all want to be accepted by others and we may all do strange things to gain that acceptance.

Now I would suggest that in seeking acceptance, we first consider our relationship with God along with our relationship with others. You might ask, why bring God into this? In Matthew 22 a Pharisee asked Jesus in vs. 36: “Teacher, what is the greatest commandment of all?” Jesus replied in vs. 37-38: “Love the Lord your God with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” God has already made us an offer of salvation through grace as we read in Ephesians 2:8-9: “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God.” And we can accept that gift as Jesus told us in Revelations 3:20; “Here I am. I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.” We have an offer and an acceptance and a contract with God.

As important as that relationship with God is, Jesus went further in the Matthew passage we quoted above when he said in vs. 29: “And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” As we seek acceptance from others we must show acceptance of those very people from whom we seek to gain acceptance: we must “Love your neighbor as yourself.” We must as Paul wrote in Romans 15:7: “Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.” This might not be as easy as it may sound. We all have the proverbial “warts and blemishes” that may make us unacceptable to others and them to us; therefore, as we strive for acceptance from others and to accept others we should be mindful of a passage from Colossians 3: 12-14: “Therefore as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have with one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in unity.”

In closing we always need to be mindful that ACCEPTANCE is a two way street—as we seek to gain acceptance from others we must first show acceptance toward others. And with that said, I would ask that we close with a prayer which is the first lines of the Serenity Prayer that I referenced in last months devotion: “Got grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

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More Than a Summer Camp: Building Brighter Futures with the University of West Alabama

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 17:02:15 GMT

At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. That’s why our partnership with the University of West Alabama is about so much more than providing a place for summer camp, it’s about investing in the future of our communities.

Listen to our interview with Byron Thetford, Vice President for Student Affairs, to hear how his Y story shapes who he is today and how that story continues for his own children in Livingston.

Together, we’re building stronger kids, stronger families, and a stronger West Alabama.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y

Every Child Deserves a Place to Grow

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 17 Jul 2026 17:26:39 GMT

Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow, and belong. Every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes from knowing their child is in a safe, supportive environment. At the YMCA of Tuscaloosa, financial assistance makes those opportunities possible for hundreds of families across West Alabama each year.

When most people think about YMCA scholarships, they think about summer camp—and while camp is certainly a life-changing experience, it’s only part of the story.

A scholarship can mean a child has a safe place to go after school while their parents finish the workday. It can mean learning to swim and gaining the confidence that comes with essential water safety skills. It can mean participating in youth sports, building friendships, developing healthy habits, and discovering new passions. It can even mean access to specialized programs like Camp ELEVATE, where children with low to moderate support needs experience the joy and belonging that every child deserves.

These aren’t just programs. They’re opportunities that shape lives.

This year, we project serving more than 200 children through Afterschool Care in Tuscaloosa and Livingston, giving kids a safe place to learn, play, and thrive beyond the classroom.

Our Safety Around Water initiative continues to equip children with skills that can save lives. Thanks to generous supporters, families who otherwise couldn’t afford swim lessons are able to give their children one of the most important lifelong skills they can learn.

And through Camp ELEVATE, children with diverse abilities are welcomed into an inclusive environment where they enjoy camp activities, build confidence, and create meaningful friendships in a setting designed to help them succeed.

Last year alone, the YMCA of Tuscaloosa provided more than $233,000 in financial assistance to families throughout West Alabama. This year, our goal is to raise $150,000 through our Annual Campaign so we can continue removing financial barriers and ensuring every child has the opportunity to participate, regardless of their family’s financial circumstances.

Together, we can ensure that every child has a place to belong, a place to grow, and a place to become their best self.

Thank you for helping us make that possible.

To give to our annual campaign, you can click the button below or head to our Downtown location to fill out a pledge card and learn more about the amazing programs that donor funds support.

Give Today

The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y

July: A Season of Peace

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:43 GMT

July invites us to slow down and reflect on a gift that can often feel difficult to find—peace. At the YMCA of Tuscaloosa, we believe peace is more than the absence of conflict; it is found in the relationships we build, the encouragement we offer, and the moments we create together. Whether it's parents finding support through The Village, members gathering for Men's Prayer Group, children discovering confidence at summer camp, or individuals taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle, each experience strengthens our community and reminds us that peace grows when people come together with purpose.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7

Happy 4th of July!

In honor of America’s 250th birthday, the YMCA of Tuscaloosa is celebrating with a $2.50 join fee through July 12! There’s never been a better time to become part of a community dedicated to helping individuals and families grow stronger in spirit, mind, and body. Bring a friend to show them all the Y has to offer while this is still available!

Stop by a YMCA of Tuscaloosa branch before July 12 to take advantage of this limited-time offer and start your journey with us!

Summer Camp in Action

Summer is in full swing, and our camps have already been filled with laughter, friendship, discovery, and unforgettable memories. From trying new activities to building confidence and making lifelong friends, these moments are possible because of the support of our community.

As you enjoy this month’s photo gallery, consider making a gift to help ensure more children can experience the joy, growth, and belonging that summer camp provides. Your donation helps us continue creating safe, enriching experiences for every child who walks through our doors.

Give Today

July at the Y

Each week, our Men’s Prayer Group offers a space for fellowship, reflection, and encouragement as men come together to grow in faith and support one another through life’s challenges and victories. It’s a simple but meaningful time rooted in conversation, prayer, and community.

We invite you to join us Downtown at 7:30 AM each Monday as we continue building a strong foundation of faith and connection here at the YMCA of Tuscaloosa. If you have any questions, call (205) 345-9622.

To join the village at the Y, click the button below and call (205) 345-9622 if you have any questions!

Voices of the Y

Meet Kolton Price McCollins at Benjamin Barnes

This month, we’re excited to highlight one of our newest summer team members serving in our Tuscaloosa summer camp programs, Kolton McCollins. Kolton is a student at the University of South Alabama, where he is studying Information Technology, and is experiencing his first season working with the YMCA of Tuscaloosa.

Kolton brings a positive attitude and a willingness to learn into every day at camp. He enjoys playing sports and working with computers, and he shared that one of his favorite parts of the job is how each day brings something different, which keeps the work engaging and fun. That energy and flexibility make a real difference in a fast-paced camp environment where no two days are ever the same.

We’re grateful to have Kolton as part of our summer camp team this season and appreciate the enthusiasm he brings to creating a great experience for the kids and families we serve.

Meet Rob Lewis at the University of West Alabama Programs

In July we are highlighting our amazing YMCA Summer Camp Director, Rob Lewis. Rob brings passion, energy, and heart to everything he does to ensure every camper has a safe, fun, and meaningful experience. From planning engaging activities and supporting our camp staff to building strong relationships with campers and families, he is committed to making camp a place where kids can learn, grow, and truly belong.

His enthusiasm and leadership help shape each day into an adventure filled with friendship, confidence, and lasting memories. Rob’s dedication to our YMCA mission is felt throughout camp and plays a key role in creating the positive culture our campers experience every day.

We’re grateful for Rob’s leadership and the care he brings to our camp community. If you see him around, be sure to say hello and thank him for all he does to make camp such a special place!

Meet Alexis Crawford at the Downtown Branch

Behind the scenes, Alexis helps keep the YMCA of Tuscaloosa running smoothly, ensuring we can continue serving our community every day. She loves that the Y is a place where people of all ages can come together to stay active, build meaningful relationships, and find the support they need to thrive.

Outside the office, Alexis enjoys spending time with her husband, Sam, and their two children, Christina and Samuel Jr. Whether she’s serving in ministry, planning events, or preparing a meal for family and friends, she loves bringing people together. She also enjoys traveling and exploring new places, foods, and cultures—always looking for opportunities to learn and connect with others.

We’re grateful for Alexis’s leadership and the heart she brings to our mission every day!

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y

The YMCA of Tuscaloosa and University of West Alabama Partnership.

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:15:43 GMT

The YMCA of Tuscaloosa is proud to partner with the University of West Alabama to expand wellness opportunities, youth development programs, and community resources for the Livingston area and the UWA campus.

This partnership represents an exciting new chapter as we work together to better serve students, faculty, staff, families, and the surrounding community. As YMCA of Tuscaloosa CEO Jeff Knox shared:

“We are excited to partner with the University of West Alabama. Together, we can broaden access to wellness opportunities, youth development programs, and community-centered resources that serve students, faculty, staff, and families throughout the region.”

We’re honored to bring the YMCA’s experience and mission to a growing community that is eager for new opportunities to connect, grow, and thrive.

To learn more about the partnership and what’s ahead, click the button below to read the full story.

Learn More

Want to follow along as this partnership grows? Be sure to follow our UWA Facebook page and subscribe to our Substack for exclusive updates, behind-the-scenes stories, and the latest news on new programs and community initiatives coming to Livingston.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across West Alabama.

Donate Today

Finding Peace Beyond Understanding

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 14:30:30 GMT

Each month, YMCA of Tuscaloosa County Board Member Judge Wade Drinkard (ret.) shares a devotional centered on our monthly value. In July, we reflect on Peace. While the world often defines peace as the absence of conflict, Judge Drinkard reminds us that true peace is not found in our circumstances. Instead, it is found through prayer, trust, and the enduring presence of Christ, even in the midst of life's greatest challenges.

PEACE! The YMCA theme for July is PEACE. Peace can be defined in many ways. One of the simplest definitions is that peace is a state of harmony characterized by the absence of violence, hostility and conflict. With that definition in mind we can observe that peace does not, and for that matter has never, existed in the world in which we live. Just look around: Iran/Israel, Russia/Ukraine, regional wars and starvation in parts of Africa, street riots in many so called democratic states including the U.S., and political dysfunction. What about our own personal lives: financial problems, problems with children, problems with parents, with your neighbors, at places of employment, health problems. The list could go on and on, but it is clear that peace in our world does not exist.

BUT, before you despair, please realize that the peace we talked about in the above paragraph is “worldly” peace. There is another kind peace that displaces, supplants and overrides the depressing state of worldly peace. In Jesus’ final days on this earth, he met with the disciples in the upper room and gave them many instructions, among which we find the following in John 14:27: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives.” So then, what is this peace that Jesus gives? It certainly isn’t world peace, social peace, political peace or even personal peace. The key question that we Christians should ask is: what is this peace that Jesus promised and that we should seek. We know what it isn’t—it isn’t anything that the world can give. It is only a peace that Jesus Christ can give.

Scripture tells us about this peace that Jesus spoke of when we read the words spoken by Paul in his letter to the Philippians at 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to
God. And the peace of God that transcends all understanding, will guide your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.” This is a call to prayer and it emphasizes three things about about prayer: 1) We can take everything to God in prayer, 2) we can pray for ourselves and 3) we must pray with thanksgiving. In thus praying we should remember three things: the love of God, the wisdom of God and the power of God. This means we, with all of the skill and knowledge that God has granted us, can never produce this “peace of God that transcends all understanding.”
It can never be of our own contriving; it is only of God’s giving. The way to this PEACE is in prayer to entrust ourselves and all whom we hold dear to the loving hands of God.

Another word for this peace might be serenity and I would ask that in closing this devotion that you pray what is know as the Serenity Prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things that I cannot change, courage to change the things that I can and the wisdom to know the difference; living one day at a time, enjoying one moment at a time, accepting hardship as a pathway to peace, taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it; trusting that you will make all things right if I surrender to your will; so that I might be reasonably happy in this life and supremely happy with you in the next. Amen

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y

Board Spotlight: Serving with Purpose | Tammy Denson

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Thu, 25 Jun 2026 14:31:09 GMT

As the YMCA of Tuscaloosa County continues to serve individuals and families across our community, dedicated volunteers like Tammy Denson help ensure our mission remains strong.

Tammy serves on the YMCA Board of Directors, providing leadership, guidance, and support as we work to strengthen the foundations of our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Board members like Tammy play a vital role in helping the YMCA fulfill its mission. Through their time, talents, and passion for service, they help make it possible for the Y to continue meeting community needs and ensuring that no one is turned away due to an inability to pay.

We are grateful for Tammy’s leadership and commitment to the YMCA of Tuscaloosa County and for the many ways she helps make our community stronger.

Watch the video above to hear why Tammy’s history with the YMCA as a member, board member, and scholarship recipient shapes her involvement today.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to bring services to families across West Alabama.

Donate Today!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join Now

More Than Swim Lessons: How the YMCA is Helping Keep Kids Safe Around Water

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 16:35:11 GMT

At the YMCA of Tuscaloosa, teaching children how to swim has always been about more than learning strokes or building athletic skills. It is about giving families confidence, helping children develop lifelong safety habits, and reducing the risk of drowning.

Every year, parents prepare for summer by purchasing swimsuits, packing sunscreen, and planning trips to the pool. While those preparations are important, some of the most effective safety measures are often the simplest.

That’s why we are encouraging families to remember four key water safety practices brought to you by Alisha Mulligan:

Four Simple Ways to Stay Safer Around Water

In this video, Alisha highlights four practical steps families can take this summer:

Active supervision is key regardless of ability to swim.
Practice your swimming skills to be prepared for emergencies.
Know your environment because different types of water behave differently.
Choose bright neon swimwear, which is easier to spot underwater than other
colors.

These simple habits take only a little planning but can make a significant difference when every second counts.

The YMCA’s commitment to water safety extends far beyond the pool deck. Through swim lessons and education within our Summer Camp program, we are working to ensure that every child has the opportunity to enjoy the water safely.

These lessons impact children’s lives so greatly in just a few short weeks. As Alisha stated, “It is so rewarding to see a kid that is terrified to get in the water, they don’t even want to get their toes wet, and by the end of the four weeks they are swimming across the pool”.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to bring life saving swim lessons to families across Tuscaloosa.

Donate Today!

Together, we can help make this summer a safe one for every child.

Did you enjoy this post? Like and share so we can continue to provide you with an inside look at the amazing initiatives in your community. Don’t forget to subscribe!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join Now

June at the Y: Where Respect Meets Community

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:31:25 GMT

June brings some of the busiest and most exciting days of the year at the YMCA of Tuscaloosa. As our facilities fill with campers, athletes, families, and volunteers, we are reminded that strong communities are built on a foundation of respect. Respect means valuing one another’s differences, treating everyone with dignity, and creating spaces where all people feel welcomed and supported. Whether it's a child learning teamwork on the court, a camper making a new friend, or a member encouraging someone along their wellness journey, these everyday moments of respect help strengthen our mission and make the Y a place where everyone can belong.

“Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor.”
1 Peter 2:17

No Join Fee!

We still have 2 weeks left of our No Join Fee campaign! If someone you know is interested in coming to the Y, let them know this is their sign.

Come into a branch, or click the link below.

No Join Fee

June at the YMCA

WE’RE HIRING!

Looking for a job where you can make a difference AND be part of an amazing team? Join us at the Hiring Event for the YMCA of Tuscaloosa!

Tuesday, June 2
1 PM – 3 PM
2300 13th Street

We will be hiring for both Tuscaloosa locations. Positions include:
Personal Trainers
Group Fitness Instructors
Front Desk Staff
Child Watch Staff
Day Camp Staff

Come grow with us! Click the link below to apply if you cannot attend our hiring event and you want to apply.

Job Openings

Last week marked the exciting start of Camp Level Up and Camp Elevate in Tuscaloosa, where campers are already making new friends, exploring new activities, and creating lasting memories. This week, we're thrilled to welcome campers to our YMCA Summer Camp at the University of West Alabama as the fun expands.

Due to overwhelming demand, our Tuscaloosa camps are currently operating with a waitlist. Families interested in enrolling should visit the Benjamin Barnes YMCA or call 205-759-4284 for the latest availability.

Throughout the summer, we'll be sharing camp highlights and photo recaps right here on Substack, but for weekly updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and the latest camp news, be sure to follow our Facebook and Instagram accounts.

The YMCA Mommy and Me program, The Village at the Y, launches THIS WEEK and will be meeting weekly this summer.

Due to forecasted rain Monday, we have rescheduled our first meeting to Wednesday, June 3rd, at our Downtown Branch from 9:30 to 11 AM.

There is still time to sign up! Click the link below.

Click Here!

This week kicks off Summer Volleyball Clinic at the YMCA programs at the University of West Alabama! Summer Basketball at our Benjamin Barnes location launches next Monday, June 8th and there is still time to register. Click the link below.

Summer Basketball

Did you know the YMCA invented Father’s Day? And we want to celebrate it with you! Stay tuned on our social media for more details on the Father’s Day fun to come.

Follow our Socials!

Faces of the Y

Downtown Staff Spotlight: Marquita “Quita” Lavender

Since joining the YMCA of Tuscaloosa in March 2026, Marquita “Quita” Lavender has become a friendly and familiar face at our Downtown YMCA, serving members in both Child Watch and at the Front Desk.

When asked what she loves most about the Y, Marquita shared, “I love the Y because of the wonderful children I meet daily and their amazing parents. I also love that the Y is always giving back to the community and hosting events with everyone of every age in mind.”

Outside of the Y, Marquita is the proud mother of three beautiful and intelligent children. She is also a breast cancer and stroke survivor whose resilience and determination continue to inspire those around her. Currently, she is pursuing her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education at Shelton State Community College, with hopes of becoming a teacher in the near future.

We are grateful for the positivity, compassion, and dedication Marquita brings to our YMCA family each day.

Benjamin Barnes Staff Spotlight: Maddie Brasche

As one of our Summer Camp Coordinators, Maddie plays an important role in creating a fun, safe, and enriching experience for campers throughout the summer. Although she was officially hired on May 15 and began working at the YMCA just recently, she has already become a valued member of the team.

What stands out most to Maddie about the YMCA is the people. “Every staff member is like family and is so welcoming and always there for you whenever you need it. They are also extremely supportive and helpful no matter what and are constantly wanting to get to know you.”

Maddie’s passion for camp comes from the opportunity to make a lasting impact on young people. She loves helping children grow, learn, and become the best versions of themselves while watching their unique personalities shine. For her, summer camp is about helping shape the future leaders of our community.

Originally from Connecticut, Maddie has been an Alabama fan since she was just nine years old. She is currently a senior at the University of Alabama, where she is pursuing a degree in Sport Management with a minor in Advertising and Public Relations.

We’re excited to have Maddie leading our summer camp efforts and helping create memorable experiences for campers all season long!

The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join Today

June's Devotional: R-E-S-P-E-C-T

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 14:03:38 GMT

June’s theme at the YMCA is respect. Respect is a daily choice in how we treat one another. Respect shows up in patience during difficult moments, kindness in our conversations, and the willingness to see value in people whose experiences may differ from our own. At the Y, we believe strong communities are built when every person feels seen, heard, and welcomed. This month’s devotional from Judge Wade Drinkard (ret.) challenges us to live out the Golden Rule in both our actions and attitudes, reminding us that respect is often most meaningful when it is given freely, consistently, and without condition.

R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Aretha sang about it. Rodney Dangerfield lamented that “I don’t get no RESPECT.” The YMCA theme for June is RESPECT. So what is this RESPECT that is sung about, lamented about and declared as a theme? It has been defined in many ways, one of which is that is a foundational behavioral and emotional concept defined as a feeling of deep admiration or deference toward someone. It involves valuing others feelings, beliefs and boundaries regardless of differences. I might suggest that this is a two way street: not just respect for others, but other’s respect for us. Now, this somewhat convoluted definition might be simplified by another definition of respect as found in the Holy Bible at Luke 6:31: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” That’s right! It is the Golden Rule.

Now, this may sound an easy thing to do—do unto others as we would have them to do us—but, as we all know, we are all human and we all can be “difficult” with others and others with us from time time in our daily interactions. So as we strive to show respect for others and in turn receive respect from others we might be mindful of The Paradoxical Commandments. They are as follows: People are illogical, unreasonable and self centered. Love them anyway. If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish ulterior motives. Do good anyway. If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies. Succeed anyway. The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway. Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable. Be honest and frank anyway. The biggest men and women with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest men and women with the smallest minds. Think big anyway. People favor underdogs but only follow top dogs. Fight for a few underdogs anyway. What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway. People really need help, but may attack you if you do help them. Help people anyway. Give the world the best you have and you may get kicked in the teeth. Give the world the best you have anyway.

With these thoughts about respect in mind, let’s close with this short prayer: Lord, help us to be ever mindful of your words to “do to others as you would have them do to you.” And may we do all the good we can, in all the ways we can, in all the places we can, in all the times we can, to all the people we can and do it all with respect. Amen.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

Together, we can continue to create a stronger, healthier community—for everyone.

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The Everyone Belongs Place: De'Aysia and Carter find a home at the Y.

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 29 May 2026 14:31:17 GMT

Summer camp should be a place where every child feels welcomed, supported, and excited to grow. At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves that opportunity.

For De'Aysia Taylor and her son, Carter, the YMCA Summer Camp has become exactly that: a place to belong.

This summer, the YMCA launched Camp Elevate in partnership with New Heights Community Resource Center. This is a camp experience designed for children with low support needs. With smaller groups, a less overwhelming environment, and trained instructors, Camp Elevate creates a space where children can thrive.

De'Aysia shared how grateful she is to return to the YMCA this summer knowing her son has an environment designed to help him thrive. At the YMCA, we know every child is different. That’s why we are committed to expanding programs and services that make our Y a place for everyone.

No matter your background, your story, or your ability to pay, there is a place for you here.

The YMCA will always be The Everyone Belongs Place.

🎥 Watch the full interview with De’Aysia to hear their story and learn more about Camp Elevate.

📱 Be sure to follow our social media pages to see highlights from our campers’ first week of summer camp.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

Together, we can continue to create a stronger, healthier community—for everyone.

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Dan Tidwell: “The Luckiest Guy in the World” | May #YCON

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 22 May 2026 15:03:07 GMT

For Dan, the YMCA has always been more than just a place to work out. It has been a constant source of support, belonging, and opportunity throughout every stage of his life.

Growing up in Tennessee, Dan’s first experiences with the YMCA came through scholarship programs that helped his family access summer camp opportunities. Those experiences left a lasting impact on him and helped shape his understanding of what the Y represents for families and children in the community.

Today, Dan continues that legacy of giving back as the current president of the Y’s Men’s Club at the Downtown YMCA. Through weekly fellowship and fundraising efforts, he works alongside others to help provide scholarships and subsidies that make YMCA programs accessible for kids, seniors, and families throughout Tuscaloosa.

Dan also remains committed to his own health and wellness journey through the YMCA fitness center, something he values deeply as he continues to prioritize healthy living.

As part of this month’s theme of gratitude, Dan reflects on the blessings in his life: His family, his faith, and the opportunities God has provided him over the years. In his words, he considers himself “the luckiest guy in the world.”

Having seen the YMCA of Tuscaloosa grow and evolve through many different phases, Dan remains passionate about ensuring future generations can benefit from the same programs and opportunities that once impacted his own family.

🎥 Watch the full video below to hear Dan’s story and learn why giving back to the YMCA continues to mean so much to him.

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

Together, we can continue to create a stronger, healthier community—for everyone.

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More Than a Gym: Why the YMCA Matters to Board Member Dave Berney

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 15 May 2026 14:01:11 GMT

For Dave Berney, Wealth Advisor at JMF Capstone Wealth Management and dedicated YMCA board member, the Y has always been more than a fitness facility.

As a young person navigating a season when life felt uncertain and upside down, Dave found stability and belonging at the YMCA. Years later, the Y continues to play an important role in his life through the friendships, wellness programs, and sense of community he experiences every day.

This month, as the YMCA focuses on the theme of gratitude, Dave reflected on the many blessings in his life and the importance of giving back to organizations that create lasting impact. His passion for the YMCA is rooted not only in personal experience, but also in seeing firsthand how YMCA programs, scholarships, and community outreach opportunities help individuals and families across our area every single day.

Dave believes deeply in the YMCA’s growth mindset and encourages others to join him in investing in the future of our community.

We are grateful for leaders like Dave who continue to pour into the mission of the YMCA and help strengthen our community through service and support.

We encourage you to watch the full video interview above to learn more about Dave!

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

Together, we can continue to create a stronger, healthier community—for everyone.

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

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Our Old Social Pages Are Now Officially Retired

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Mon, 11 May 2026 15:02:21 GMT

Over the past several weeks, we’ve been in the process of migrating our social media presence to new, updated Facebook pages. As part of that transition, our old Facebook pages have now been fully deleted.

If you previously followed or interacted with those pages, we want to make sure you’re still connected with us. All future updates, announcements, and community highlights will now be shared exclusively through our new official pages.

Why the change?

This update allows us to:

Centralize communication across programs and departments
Improve how quickly we can share important updates
Better highlight stories, events, and community impact
Create a more consistent experience for families, members, and partners

Most importantly, it helps ensure you’re always seeing the most accurate and up-to-date information.

YMCA Social Media Pages

We appreciate everyone who followed along with us on our previous pages over the years. While those pages have now been retired, our commitment to staying connected with you hasn’t changed.

We’re excited for this new chapter—and we hope you’ll continue to be part of it with us.

Thank You, Michael

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:01:29 GMT

Six years ago, Michael walked into the YMCA after moving here from Michigan. On his very first day, someone asked if he was a personal trainer. That simple question sparked a journey that would leave a lasting impact on our community.

Over the years, Michael became much more than a trainer. He served as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and leader of our Parkinson’s wellness program at the downtown branch. Through every class, conversation, encouragement, and early morning workout, Michael helped create a space where members felt seen, supported, and cared for.

If there’s one thing made clear by his goodbye celebration, it’s just how deeply loved Michael is by our members and staff. The room was filled with people whose lives he touched, not only through fitness, but through friendship, kindness, and genuine connection.

The YMCA is about more than wellness equipment and exercise classes. It’s about people. Michael embodied that every day he walked through our doors. He built relationships here that will continue far beyond his time at the YMCA, and the impact he made on this community will not be forgotten.

While we are sad to see him leave, we know Michael will thrive in this next chapter just as he has here. We are incredibly grateful for the years, energy, and heart he poured into our YMCA family.

Thank you, Michael. You will always be part of this place. 💙

Summer Starts Here

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Mon, 04 May 2026 16:37:49 GMT

May at the YMCA of Tuscaloosa is a season grounded in gratitude and filled with momentum. As we launch summer camp and tip off summer basketball, we’re reminded that every moment of impact is made possible by a community that shows up. With our Annual Campaign continuing, we’re especially grateful for the generosity that fuels our mission and opens doors for so many. As we also step into a new chapter with our social media, May is a time to reflect, give thanks, and continue building a stronger, more connected community, together.

“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
James 1:17

Summer Camp

Our YMCA summer camp programs are designed to give every child a place to belong, grow, and thrive. From traditional day camp to our School-to-Camp program and Camp Elevate, each experience is built around fun, friendship, and meaningful development in a safe, supportive environment. With engaging activities, caring staff, and opportunities for every child, there’s something for everyone this summer. Click the link below to learn more and find the right camp for your family.

Explore our Camp Options!

What’s Happening in May?

New group Fitness Classes

Power Tread:

Power Tread is a high-energy, total-body workout that combines bikes and rowers for intervals with dynamic free weight training for maximum results. This class is designed to build strength, boost endurance, and torch calories. Whether you’re pushing your speed, climbing inclines, or powering through strength circuits, Power Tread keeps your body challenged and your mind engaged. Suitable for all fitness levels, participants can adjust speed, incline, and weight selection to match their goals. Get ready to sweat, build strength, and leave feeling stronger. Join us on Thursday’s at 5:45 PM in Studio 2!

Mixxed Fit:

A people-inspired dance fitness program that combines explosive, high-energy dance movements with boot camp-style body weight toning. It is designed to be easy-to-follow, using repetitive choreography set to popular music, ensuring it is accessible to all fitness levels while providing an effective, full-body workout. Join us on Saturday’s at 10:30 Am in Studio 2!

Social Media Migration

Don’t forget, some of our social media pages are moving! If you follow our pages on Facebook, you may want to double check what page you follow. On May 8th our old pages will be deleted, and our new pages will be in full swing! Click the link below to follow our updated pages.

The Village at the Y

Beginning Monday June 1st, The YMCA will launch “The Village at the Y”, a Mommy and Me program designed for moms of children 0-PreK. For $25 per month, this program will include…

Weekly Focuses and Gently Structured
Community Development
Light movement for Mom and activities for the children
A Safe & Fun Environment
Stroller Walks and Play ground Fellowship
Walks to a local coffee shop for treats and chats
Friends that last a lifetime

To join, click the link below! Whether you are a member or nonmember, the Y is where moms are supported and children belong.

Summer Basketball Registration

Summer basketball is right around the corner! We provide a structured, fun, and competitive environment for the kids while continuing to build their skills and love for the game. Check out the registration details below!

Age Groups: U6 – U12
League Dates: June 8th – July 18th (approximately 6 weeks)
Registration Opens: May 1st
Player Fee: $85 per participant

Women’s Small Group Fitness Class

Our women’s-only 6-week small group training is designed to strengthen your core where it matters most—abs, lower back, glutes, and pelvic floor. With focused coaching and intentional programming, you’ll build stability, confidence, and real progress in a supportive, small-group setting.

May 12 – June 18
Tuesdays & Thursdays at 12:15 PM
Limited to 6 participants
$99 for 12 sessions

Spots are limited—don’t wait.

Voices of the Y

Meet Mr. Johnson and Henry!

Mr. Johnson and Henry are two valued employees at the YMCA of Tuscaloosa. Mr. Johnson has dedicated years to serving our Benjamin Barnes branch.

“At 69 I have learned the Joy and Fulfillment of this life is not found in who you are or what you have Achieved and accumulated, but in how we serve in our Church, home, workplace and community.”
Mr. Willis Johnson.

Henry is pretty new to the Downtown team, but he has been a YMCA employee since he was in high school in Birmingham. He loves the community, family oriented nature, and Christian values we have at the Y.

Be on the lookout on our social media pages to hear more about these two wonderful staff members!

Why I Love the Y

“My daughter Kennedi loves being here at the YMCA. She loves meeting new students and the staff here are great. I, as a parent, feel that Kennedi is in a safe environment. Even though she has her days, the staff at the Y will always find a way to solve the problem.”
Mychiel Knighten, Afterschool parent

We are Hiring!

We are hiring for multiple positions across all 3 locations! Working at the YMCA is more than just a job, it’s an opportunity to make a lasting impact in the lives of others while growing as a leader and a member of your community. Click the link below to explore our job openings, or contact us to learn more!

Explore Here

The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y!

Devotional for the Month of May: A Heart of Gratitude

YMCA of Tuscaloosa — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:26:35 GMT

As we enter the month of May, we are centering our focus on gratitude; A simple yet powerful reminder of the many ways we are supported, encouraged, and uplifted each day. At the YMCA, we see gratitude lived out through our community: in the relationships we build, the generosity of our donors, and the everyday moments that shape who we are. This month’s devotional from Judge Wade Drinkard (ret.) invites us to pause, reflect, and recognize that even in life’s challenges, there is always something to be thankful for.

GRATITUDE is the YMCA theme for May. Gratitude can be defined many ways. One way is to say that gratitude is an emotion and a state of appreciation for the positive things in life.
It involves recognizing the goodness we experience and acknowledging that it comes from outside ourselves, fostering a sense of thankfulness—in spite of life’s challenges that we encounter daily.

As we experience life’s journey we might encounter things that make it difficult for us to
show gratitude and to even question God’s love for us. And that brings to mind a poem that I found that means a lot to me and I hope will help you to truly appreciate God’s love and allow for proper gratitude:

I asked God to take away my habit. God said, No. It is not for me to take away, but for you to give up. I asked God to make my handicapped child whole, God said, No. His spirit is whole, his body is only temporary. I asked God to give me patience. God said, No. Patience is by product of tribulations; it isn’t granted, it is learned. I asked God to give me happiness. God said, No. I give you blessings; happiness is up to you. I asked God to spare me pain. God said, No. Suffering draws you apart from worldly cares and brings you closer to me. I asked God to make my spirit grow. God said, No. You must grow on your own! But I will prune you and make you fruitful. I asked God for all things that I might enjoy life. God said, No. I will give you life, so that you may enjoy all things. I asked God to help me LOVE others as much as He loves me. God said…Ahhhh, finally you have the idea.

YES, God’s love is what enables us to experience gratitude. In closing, I would ask that you get your Bible and read Psalm 100 and then join me in this simple prayer: Thank you, Lord, for the blessings you have bestowed on my life. You have provided me with more than I could ever have imagined. You have surrounded me with people in my “Y” community who always look after me and have given me family and friends who bless me every day with kind words and action. So with GRATITUDE I say—thank you. Amen

If you feel inspired, consider supporting our annual campaign and helping us continue to serve individuals and families across our community.

Donate Today!

Together, we can continue to create a stronger, healthier community—for everyone.

Did you enjoy this post? Like and share so we can continue to provide you with an inside look at the amazing initiatives in your community. Don’t forget to subscribe!

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The YMCA of Tuscaloosa serves Tuscaloosa and surrounding counties, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Join the Y!