Recognizing our 2025 Staff of the Year

Tom was promoted to the Harrisburg Area YMCA City Relations Director in March 2025 and has since made a significant impact. He has built nearly 200 new community contacts, strengthened partnerships with schools, city government, and youth organizations, and played a key role in the success of programs like Safety Around Water. Tom stepped in to lead major YMCA race events during a staffing gap, trained the new Community Events Director, and continues to support Evidence-Based Health Interventions. He leads the Youth Task Force, ensures programs run smoothly, and creates first-time experiences for youth, including new 2026 initiatives with the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Tom is mission-focused, dedicated to sustaining and improving programs he helped build, and continually develops his leadership and professional skills, including becoming a PA Certified Community Health Worker and Rock Steady Boxing Instructor.

Aundra has made a tremendous impact at Camp Curtin YMCA by creating innovative, inclusive programs that engage youth and foster growth in spirit, mind, and body. He goes beyond managing activities to building genuine relationships with youth, families, and the community, and to mentoring staff and volunteers with professionalism, empathy, and leadership. Aundra champions the YMCA’s values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — by creating a supportive environment, modeling integrity, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging youth leadership. He has expanded the branch’s reach through community collaboration, new programming like dance and Junior Achievers, and the revival of youth basketball, attracting over 200 participants. Committed to professional growth, Aundra pursues training in youth development, mental health, and equity, staying current with best practices. His dedication fosters a safe, engaging, and empowering environment where youth thrive, staff are supported, and the YMCA’s mission is realized daily.

Amy is a dedicated and tireless member of the YMCA Center for Healthy Living team, always stepping up to ensure programs run smoothly and goals are met. She willingly attends events, teaches programs, and meets with community members during events and weekends to support participants in pursuing healthier lifestyles. Amy is a cheerleader for both coworkers and participants, offering encouragement, guidance, and support every step of the way. She is highly organized, adept at multitasking, and ensures all resources and programs are safe and effective. She leads participants through challenges with care, creating a welcoming environment where they can explore success at their own pace. Committed to growth, Amy attends trainings, conferences, and continuing education opportunities to expand her skills and knowledge. Her dedication extends beyond work, reflecting a genuine care for her team, participants, and community. Amy’s leadership, compassion, and organization make her an invaluable asset to YCHL.

John consistently demonstrates excellence as Wellness Director, going above and beyond his core duties. In addition to leading wellness programs, he supports multiple areas of the YMCA, including video extraction, parking lot safety, marketing, and social media engagement. John addresses member concerns promptly, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors. He also contributes to the YMCA’s long-term success by assisting with board member recruitment and strengthening leadership and community connections; his versatility and dedication impact both daily operations and strategic growth. John’s willingness to take on additional responsibilities, combined with his commitment to members and the broader YMCA community, makes him an invaluable asset. His leadership, care, and proactive approach enhance every aspect of the organization, fostering a welcoming and thriving environment for staff, members, and the community alike.

Maggie consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating exceptional dedication to the children and families in our programs. As a leader of the Kindergarten Readiness Program, she brings passion, creativity, and care to ensure children are prepared for the next stage of learning. She also supports the School Age Child Care Program in the afternoons, showing unwavering commitment to both children and staff. Maggie’s positive energy and genuine connections with each child create a nurturing environment where learning and growth thrive. She successfully completed her CDA and is pursuing an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education at HACC, reflecting her dedication to professional development. Her hard work, caring nature, and enthusiasm make her an invaluable member of our team. Maggie’s impact is evident daily, and her continued contributions enrich the lives of the children, families, and colleagues she serves.

Becky, a dedicated preschool teacher, recently celebrated 30 years with our YMCA childcare center. She leaves a lasting impression on every child and family she works with, creating a nurturing environment where children learn, grow, and have fun. Her creative lessons, engaging activities, and love for her work contribute to the success of our programs and the happiness of families. A true team player, Becky inspires colleagues with her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and collaboration. She embodies the YMCA’s core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — and teaches these lessons to her students. Over three decades, Becky has influenced countless children, including multiple generations within families, building trust and confidence with families and the community. She continually seeks ways to enhance her classroom through creative projects, hands-on learning, and professional development, ensuring a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for all.

Tracy has taught Group Fitness classes at the West Shore YMCA for 18 years, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and passion in every class. She is a supportive team member who frequently subbed for others, mentored new instructors, and expanded her skills by learning new formats. Tracy actively participates in special events like Black Friday Fitness Frenzy and Move-A-Thon, encouraging members and fellow instructors while letting them shine. She builds strong connections with members, motivating them in their fitness journeys, checking in on life events, and creating an inclusive, welcoming environment. She contributes to the YMCA beyond teaching, supporting the Annual Campaign, helping improve programs, and bringing creative ideas to events. Tracy stays current in fitness trends, maintains certifications, and ensures her classes remain challenging and accessible. Her reliability, positive attitude, and dedication make her an invaluable instructor and a respected, beloved member of the YMCA community.