Y Stories

If you think the Y is only a place to swim and exercise your body, you’re missing out on the many other fun activities to explore.

Being back at the Northwest Family YMCA has been full circle for Virginia Cross. Virginia, better known as Ginny, was a member of the branch back when it first opened its doors 50 years ago.  

Perseverance comes in all shapes and sizes. Even at age 5, Jack Cotroneo is a clear example of not letting your circumstances bring you down.   

One thing about the Y is we’re more than just a gym. We also love to play games that don’t involve you working up a sweat - ones that can exercise your mind. Take Fred and Dyzio for example, longtime members of our Westside Family YMCA. If you happen to be at the branch from 8–10:30 am on Tuesday mornings, you’re more than likely to see the two duking it out on the chessboard.

Camaraderie is one of our favorite parts of our Y community. Just ask the morning crew at our Thurston Road YMCA Neighborhood Center. 

All athletes are welcome here at the YMCA of Greater Rochester. So, let’s take time to highlight one of our very own: Amanda Vito.

If you were ever having a tough day, talking to Brandon Glass-Neismith might be the boost of energy you needed. Despite battling with Cerebral Palsy throughout his life, Brandon brings a winning attitude to everything he does each day.

Have you ever wondered what it’d be like to be a lifeguard? Lana’s here to explain! Lana works at our Canandaigua Family YMCA and has been lifeguarding there since September. While taking a gap year from college, she figured she’d lean into her love for the water.

If you haven’t picked up on it by now, here’s another reminder: the YMCA is all about community. One way one we keep our community together is through group exercise classes, which range from cycling to yoga, TRX cardio to Zumba, Tai Chi, and beyond.