A Lifelong Appreciation for the YMCA

The YMCA of Fredericton is governed by a Board of Directors that is made up entirely of volunteers from the community. Starting in May, 2022, we will be welcoming Erin Smith, the incoming Chair of the Board of Directors!

“I am excited to move into my role as Chair of the Board of Directors this spring. I will be working with the board and Darcy, our new CEO, to figure out how the YMCA can best support the Fredericton community as we move beyond COVID (fingers crossed!).”

Erin comes to the Y with a multitude of skills and a passion for helping out, but we want to know why she has chosen to give back to the Y in this way. Erin tells us, “I moved all across Canada growing up, but was always able to continue my swimming lessons at the local YMCA, eventually earning my Bronze Cross. My mother was a fitness instructor at the YMCA of Greater Moncton, which led to my first volunteer experience as a youth basketball coach through their Leaders-in-Training program. Since moving to Fredericton, my daughter has benefitted from the daycare and early years programming through to after-school care, until she aged out. She will attend the SJ YMCA’s Camp Glenburn for her 8^th summer this year. My family’s relationship with the YMCA is lifelong. The YMCA stands out from other organizations due to its social mission and community outreach. I love that whenever I show up, I am surrounded by people from 6 months old to 96 years old, of all shapes and sizes and from all backgrounds. I appreciate that our membership model allows people to pay what they can, so no one is turned away.”

More often than not, Erin can be found in the Wellness Centre, although she admits that when the weather turns warmer, she will start her fitness routine at the Y and then run through beautiful downtown Fredericton, across the train bridge and back. Pilates classes are also a refreshing way to shake up her regimen and Erin is even considering returning to the pool after a 25 year hiatus!

Erin knows it is the sense of kindness and community that draws people towards the Y as hub for health and wellness. She feels motivated to show up at 6:00 a.m. knowing that she will see friendly and familiar faces.

As Erin moves into her new role as Chair, she looks forward to working with the other members of the board. She also looks forward to getting back to participating in fun community events like the Spin-A-Thon and the community breakfasts.