Every day, our YMCA staff impact hundreds of lives in Harrisburg and across the state. We asked our teams to choose one coworker from each location to be recognized for exemplary service to the YMCA this year. Please help us to recognize and thank our staff for their incredible work!
Association Office: Sue Newman
Sue Newman, Senior Director of Membership Experience, is the heart of the YMCA’s membership operations, managing everything from apparel and training to data entry and reporting. Since joining the Harrisburg Area YMCA in 1995 from the YMCA of Central Maryland, Sue has contributed across programs, membership, and aquatics, mentoring countless staff members along the way. In her current role, she focuses on streamlining processes to boost organizational efficiency, and her remarkable attention to detail and can-do attitude are highly valued across the association. Sue’s dedication to quality and her ability to consistently produce results make her an essential part of the YMCA team. Through her efforts, she has set a high standard for member service, and her role as the association’s “go-to” for information reflects her vast knowledge and unwavering commitment.
Camp Curtin Branch: Mike Roy
Michael “Mr. Mike” Lee Roy has been a central figure at Camp Curtin YMCA, leading maintenance and janitorial efforts since 2020 with an unmatched commitment to creating a clean and safe environment. Fondly called “Mr. Mike,” he goes beyond the standard scope of his role, making spaces welcoming and comfortable, especially for the children who adore him. His friendly demeanor, constant smile, and attention to detail make him a beloved part of the YMCA community. Mr. Mike is known for his genuine interactions, answering questions and ensuring every safety measure is in place, providing peace of mind to staff and families alike. His dedication and willingness to help create a positive atmosphere where kindness and responsibility are always present. Mr. Mike’s impact is evident daily, as he fosters a sense of belonging and safety for everyone at Camp Curtin. His work ethic and joyful spirit make him invaluable, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for his continued contributions to the YMCA.
East Shore Branch: Christy Beaver
Christy Beaver exemplifies the YMCA’s mission with her warmth, dedication, and leadership, creating a true “home away from home” for members and staff alike. She goes beyond expectations, remembering names, celebrating birthdays, and fostering a close-knit community atmosphere that is cherished by all. In her leadership role, Christy brings creativity and enthusiasm, readily stepping into tasks to support others and set a positive example of collaboration. Her adherence to the YMCA’s values—caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility—is clear in every interaction, establishing an inclusive space where everyone feels supported. Christy’s influence goes beyond the YMCA, as her holiday decorations uplift spirits, and her community involvement reflects her deep compassion. Her commitment to enhancing front desk operations and the Residential program demonstrates her initiative and organizational dedication. Working toward a degree in Drug and Alcohol counseling, Christy continually seeks growth to better serve the YMCA community, making her a truly deserving awardee.
Friendship Branch: Jessica Mattern
Jessica Mattern transitioned this year to Senior Program Director at Friendship YMCA, taking on membership and program oversight with enthusiasm and diligence. Rising from her former role as Childcare Director, Jessica has embraced her new responsibilities, supporting all program areas and working varied shifts to meet the YMCA’s needs. Her leadership quickly became evident as she addressed staffing needs, set operational standards for the front desk, and earned the trust of her colleagues. Involved in the Annual Campaign, Jessica inspired her team to contribute through her dedication, reinforcing her strong relationships and commitment to the YMCA’s mission. Her positive energy and engagement embody the core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility as she connects with members and participates in community events like Healthy Kids Day. Jessica continuously seeks to improve member experience, exploring innovative solutions and providing valuable consistency at the front desk. Her impact on the YMCA is truly remarkable.
Northern Dauphin County Branch: April Hoke
April Hoke exemplifies excellence and commitment at the YMCA child care center, arriving at 6:00 AM to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for children. Her dedication is evident in her long hours and her readiness to assist wherever needed, creating a positive space for both families and staff. April is a true mentor, fostering professional growth among her team and maintaining strong relationships with families, who deeply trust her with their children’s care. She embodies the YMCA’s values through her actions, ensuring honesty, integrity, and responsibility guide her daily work. Her proactive approach in maintaining compliance with childcare standards, working closely with Keystone STARS and DHS, reflects her commitment to excellence. Recently completing the Presidium Guardian training, April also promotes her team’s development through organized training and support, continually raising the childcare center’s quality. Her unwavering dedication benefits everyone involved, making her an inspiring leader.
West Shore Branch: Jahmier Wadsworth
Jahmier Wadsworth is an invaluable leader at West Shore YMCA, excelling as a Member Services Lead and handling responsibilities from managing collections to creating marketing materials with a positive, proactive attitude. Working evenings and weekends, Jahmier’s calm, inclusive leadership promotes a cooperative environment among his team and enhances the YMCA experience for all members. Known for his friendly demeanor, Jahmier goes out of his way to help staff and members, fostering a welcoming atmosphere and encouraging others toward their fitness goals. He recently took on the task of expanding his skills in marketing, producing effective promotional materials that improve community engagement. Dedicated to professional growth, Jahmier has completed his YMCA Leader Certification and plans to further his education at Camp Kwon-O-Kwee, showcasing his commitment to excellence and future leadership within the YMCA.
YMCA Center for Healthy Living: Ryan Long
Ryan Long demonstrates exceptional dedication, professionalism, and a positive spirit in his role at the YMCA, consistently bringing quality work and friendliness to every interaction. Known for his dependability, he excels in his role with HWYC, creating engaging, tailored activities that resonate with children and parents alike. Ryan’s creativity and attention to the unique personalities of his participants highlight his commitment to their growth and enjoyment, embodying the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. As both a leader and team player, Ryan sets a strong example for his peers, handling tasks with respect and reliability. Though early in his career, Ryan is dedicated to personal development, completing CATCH training and actively seeking further learning opportunities. His eagerness to grow underscores his commitment to excellence, making him a valued and respected member of the YMCA community.
