YMCA of South Hampton Roads

At the Y, we believe every child deserves the confidence and safety that comes with knowing how to swim. Earlier this year, WTKR News 3’s Beverly Kidd shared Grace’s story, a young swimmer working hard to gain the skills she needed in our swim lesson program at the Great Bridge/Hickory YMCA. Today, we are thrilled to celebrate her achievement as Grace passed her swim test and got to experience the joy of going down the slide! https://lnkd.in/e6KykPDK Stories like Grace’s remind us why swim lessons are more than just a childhood milestone. They are a life-saving skill, a step toward independence and a gateway to new opportunities. Congratulations, Grace! Keep making waves!?

As we celebrate Women’s History Month, we recognize the incredible women who lead, inspire, and shape the YMCA. Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Hannah Evans, Membership & Family Experience Director, whose journey with the YMCA is defined by her passion for giving back to the community. With two years of experience at the Y, Hannah was motivated to pursue a leadership role because of the organization’s mission and its focus on community impact. “I’ve always had a passion for giving back,” she shares. “Being with the Y has really pushed me to do that through family programs, Open Doors scholarships, and partnering with local businesses.” A moment that stands out for Hannah is her transition from Senior Membership Experience Leader to her current role as Membership & Family Experience Director. “I am grateful for my superiors and colleagues who saw my growth in the Y and trusted me with my current role,” she says. “I feel like my mind is going a thousand miles an hour on ‘How can I give this family the best experience at the Y' or ‘How can I let this child express themselves in a healthy way?' Sometimes it can be a little stressful, but the feeling of just helping one family is why I choose to do my part every day.” Hannah has been deeply influenced by one of her closest friends and mentors, Tiera-Lyn. “Tiera-Lyn has had a huge impact on the woman I have become and am becoming,” Hannah shares. “She’s a strong and fair leader, and I admire how she leads by example, always saying, ‘I’m not going to ask you to do something I won’t do myself.’ She taught me to give 110% to everything I do, whether in my personal or professional life.” For the next generation of women leaders, Hannah’s advice is to “Never be afraid to ask questions and be open to all possibilities. Sometimes it’s hard to be a woman in a ‘man’s world, ’ but finding your voice and trusting your intuition are a couple of things that can guarantee you and your organization's success!” Hannah’s dedication and commitment to creating a welcoming environment at the Y continues to inspire those around her, proving that leadership driven by passion and a desire to serve the community can have a lasting impact. Join us in celebrating Hannah and the incredible women leading the way at the Y.

We’re making a splash! Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we exceeded our goal on YMCA’s National Day of Giving and raised enough to fund Safety Around Water programs for 250 kids! That means more children will gain essential water safety skills, reducing the risk of drowning and building confidence in and around water. Your support is truly lifesaving. Thank you for making waves with us!

As we celebrate Women's History Month, we recognize the incredible women who lead, inspire, and shape the YMCA. Today’s spotlight is on Simone Roseboro, whose journey with the YMCA began nearly 25 years ago. As the Site Director at the Greenbrier Intermediate After-School Program, Simone has built lasting relationships with families and staff, guiding generations of children through their formative years. For Simone, leadership is about more than overseeing a program, it’s about leading by example and making a meaningful impact on others. “My role allows me to inspire people and make a difference,” she shares. “The greatest moments of pride come when families thank me for all I’ve done for their children. Hearing a parent ask, ‘Will you still be here when my child starts school?’ always puts a smile on my face.” Simone sees the YMCA as a place where she can continue to make a difference, offering inclusive programming and community service that align with her personal values. “The Y is a great place to make a social impact. The community service and programming are important to me, and they keep me dedicated to my work here.” Throughout her career, Simone has been deeply influenced by her mother, whose love, encouragement, and resilience shaped her approach to leadership. “She has always taught me to be positive, humble, and resilient. to have a strong sense of self-worth, and to be passionate about what I believe in,” she says. As a seasoned leader, Simone encourages the next generation of women to trust themselves and embrace their inner strength. “Love and believe in yourself,” she advises. “Trust in your highest faith and live with integrity because this will allow you to be the best version of YOU!” Simone’s work continues to inspire others, proving that leadership rooted in love, humility, and service can create lasting, meaningful change. Join us in celebrating Simone and the incredible women shaping the Y.

This Women’s History Month, we are recognizing the incredible women leading the way at the Y, including Missy Swoope, Division Vice President at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. With 13 years of dedication to the Y, Missy has strengthened our organization and mentored countless young professionals, shaping the next generation of leaders. Missy’s journey with the Y began as a parent, watching her children grow through Y sports. That deep connection to family and community led her to pursue a career with the Y in 2013, starting as a Business Director. Through years of leadership in operations, budgeting, and strategic planning, she has gained the expertise and confidence to make an even greater impact. One of Missy’s proudest moments was receiving the YPN Developing Others Award, which recognized her passion for mentoring. “Seeing those I’ve mentored thrive has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career,” she shares. For Missy, the Y is more than just a workplace. It is a place where women can thrive. With flexible schedules, family-friendly policies, and a culture of inclusion, the Y empowers women to lead with confidence. Her leadership style has been influenced by strong women like Margaret Thatcher, whose unwavering commitment to her principles inspired Missy to lead with strength and integrity. Her advice to the next generation of women leaders is to be authentic and stay true to who you are. “Your unique perspective is your strength.” Join us in celebrating Missy and all the incredible women making an impact at the Y.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, we recognize the incredible women who lead, inspire, and shape the YMCA. Today, we’re highlighting Beth Swanson, Senior Membership Director at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. With 10 years of service, Beth has played a key role in building strong connections within the community and helping members experience all the Y has to offer. Beth’s drive to make a difference and help others has fueled her journey at the Y. She began by helping staff find shift coverage and assisting members in creating lasting memories through birthday parties. Today, she is out in the community, sharing the Y’s mission and showing people how the Y changes lives. Whether she’s talking with individuals about membership or connecting with local organizations to expand access to Y programs, she is passionate about ensuring everyone knows the Y is here to support them. One of Beth’s proudest moments was being recognized by her peers with awards for being the most supportive and kindest cheerleader for the membership team. “To be seen that way by other leaders, directors, and executives meant so much to me,” she says. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads is an employer of choice for women because it values hard work, dedication, and leadership while providing opportunities for career growth. “The Y recognizes work ethic and qualifications while creating employment opportunities for people to rise up and become leaders,” Beth shares. Beth credits many within the association for her growth, but her most influential mentor has been VP of Membership Experience Julie Crowley. “Julie is the kind of leader who inspires and pushes you to develop the leader within yourself,” Beth says. “She coaches, teaches, and supports you every step of the way, finding your individual strengths and helping you grow. She doesn’t just inspire those she directly supervises, her impact reaches every center, department, and role.” Her advice to future women leaders is to follow their dreams and passion. “Never give up or give in,” she says. “Your dreams may change over time, but they help define you, inspire you, and, eventually, allow you to inspire others.” Join us in celebrating Beth and the incredible women shaping the Y.

As we celebrate Women's History Month, we recognize the incredible women who lead, inspire, and shape the YMCA. Today, we spotlight Vicki Coleman, Director of Aquatic Quality and Standards at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. With 23 years in the Y movement and 17 of them with our association, Vicki has dedicated her career to ensuring safe, high-quality aquatic programs while mentoring the next generation of leaders. Vicki’s passion for aquatics and community impact led her to pursue a leadership role at the Y. She has witnessed firsthand how strong leadership changes lives, whether through teaching lifesaving swim skills or guiding young staff members. Her journey has shaped her leadership philosophy, centering on servant leadership, lifting others up, leading by example, and fostering an environment where both staff and members thrive. One of her proudest moments was receiving the Professional Excellence Award, but it is the everyday moments that mean the most, like running into former swim lesson families and hearing how those lessons made a lasting impact. “Hearing kids say they remember me or parents share how grateful they are for the time I spent teaching their children, that is what truly matters,” she says. The YMCA of South Hampton Roads provides opportunities for women to grow and lead, something Vicki has experienced firsthand. “The Y embraces different leadership styles and provides the tools to develop and improve,” she shares. “It is a place where women are encouraged to lead, learn, and make a real impact.” Vicki credits several women for inspiring her leadership, including her mother, former supervisors, and her 15-year-old daughter. “Watching her balance school, sports, and challenges with such determination reminds me what true dedication looks like,” she says. Her advice to future women leaders is to be confident, be persistent, and be passionate. “Leadership is not about having all the answers, it is about showing up, learning from experiences, and lifting others up along the way,” she says. “Find mentors, embrace challenges, and never underestimate the impact you can make.” Join us in celebrating Vicki and the incredible women leading the way at the Y.

A child’s first swim lesson could save their life. Today, your gift during YMCA Day of Giving makes these moments possible. Together, we can build stronger, safer kids. #YMCA #DayofGiving #ForABetterUs ymcashr.org/dayofgiving

Today’s the day! Your gift to the Y can help kids learn lifesaving swim skills and build confidence in the water. Give today and make a difference for a child in need. #YMCA #DayofGiving #ForABetterUs ymcashr.org/dayofgiving

In celebration of Women's History Month, we highlight the inspiring women who make an impact at the YMCA. Scherasade Wynn Hose, who has dedicated 10 years to the Y, is one of those exceptional leaders. Early in her career, Scherasade discovered her passion for membership. She found fulfillment in helping others and being a resource for both members and staff. As a Senior Membership Experience Leader (MEL), she took on new challenges and developed systems that continue to benefit her team today. Throughout her journey, Scherasade has seen the value of mentorship and how leadership growth can come from within. She’s been supported by other women who have helped her progress in her career, and she, in turn, encourages those around her to pursue their own goals. Outside of the Y, Scherasade is inspired by her best friend, who built a daycare and academy from the ground up, setting high expectations for her team and fostering a culture of service and safety. This entrepreneurial spirit resonates with Scherasade and shapes her leadership approach. This Women's History Month, we celebrate Scherasade and the impact she has made at the Y, in her community, and beyond.