Making a Positive Impact

Nate Smith

Honor. Courage. Commitment.

Mission Moments
The loss of his Dad could have derailed Nate Smith, but his commitment to family kept him on track.  Working to help pay the bills, Nate took a pause from school, that he later tackled – full speed ahead – to get his diploma.  This was his first step in pursuing a career that he’d dreamed of
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Janice Coon

"God has given us a Gift."

Silver Sneakers
Admittedly, Janice Coon isn’t a fan of machine workouts.  Instead, this gregarious lady enjoys group exercise including Silver Sneakers, Zumba and Toning at the Firestone Park facility, described by her as a being a “warm Y.”
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Jaiyah Hancock

A Helping Hand

Youth Development
Offering a helping hand is second-nature to Jaiyah Hancock, a student in our After-School program with Akron Public Schools.  The middle child of a blended family, including lots of cousins, Jaiyah’s had practice in being selfless and caring.  She’s been a big help to her mother and her grand
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troy williamson

Steps in the Right Direction

Mission Moments
When Troy Williamson was a kid, he tried all kinds of sports including wrestling, basketball and football. As things moved from neighborhood games to more organized school teams, Troy said he didn’t understand why he just couldn’t do as well as the other boys. “My cousin was an incredible athlete, but I was never very good.
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Giving Them a Reason to Get Up

When you've been active all you life, you want to remain active.  The Y gives members like Mary and Mike a reason to get in gear - every day -- to see friends and be healthy. 

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Get Moving with this Mom

Ashley came to the Y looking for a little time for herself.  But, this energetic Mom found a whole new lease on life -- as well as a new career at the Y. 

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Grandma Penny and her Kids from Karen

Connecting immigrant children to a community of love, strong values and acceptance from all, was a goal of  Grandma Penny and her sister.  Add in gymnastics, soccer, swimming and horseback riding for a result that is life changing for everyone.

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The Wallace Family

Providing a caring place for children has been a core component of the Akron Area Y.  But, when kids love it so much that they want their birthday parties here ... well, that truly IS icing on the cake.

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