Why not ? We are in real danger of losing the operation of the Garrettsville Family YMCA. This is NOT because of lack of activity at the operation, contrariwise, it is more because of the many and varied activities going on there that are, increasingly, more than staffing can support. One person, basically, is being asked to handle, manage, schedule, organize, secure funding, direct and encourage everything that goes on there. That’s a lot; and it cannot go on much longer. We are in danger of losing the whole shebang (to use a technical term), if there cannot be found more employees to assist in maintaining the programs now available. Notifications have gone out–”help wanted” ads, word-of-mouth, pretty-close-to begging & pleading–with minimal response. Are there no individuals out there available for community-service-oriented employment? Does everyone want to see the offerings of soccer, volleyball, basketball,T-ball for kids done away with? Is no one interested in maintaining exercise facilities for all ages? Will yoga classes and practice have to move out to some less-centralized location? Will pickleball be forced to become an outdoor-only activity when the big old building closes (with no restroom facilities except the big blue port-a-potty by the park)? Where will the dance recitals go? Where can anyone rent a big space for a big event? Where can the local QuizBowl or math tournaments or other educational events or competition finals go to find a building with space available during the day? Will the NGCC have to find new digs? What happens to Amish basketball (You should see it; these guys are serious about the game)? Do we want to see all of this come to an end?
Granted, the pay is not great, but the hours are really flexible and can be arranged for individual availability. It is a chance to get to know folks across the community as well as becoming a valued part of this community–a win/win situation. Learn some new skills and polish up some old ones. Be a force for good.
Do NOT complain–contribute. Volunteer, be employed, be both. The current director and her indefatigable crew (Look that one up.) are doing just about all that they can (rummage sale, scheduling, maintenance, etc,) but something has got to give or we’ll have given it all away. You know that saying about, “for want of a nail a horse was lost, for want of a horse, a rider was lost, for want of a rider, the battle was lost, etc…” It’s all about pointing out that small things can have a major effect on big things.
We’re wanting a nail here. Think about it. Start hammering.
