FEATURE

Contact: Gabriella Yaccino

Phone: (815) 671-2221
Email: gyaccin@siue.edu
Target Audience: YMCA Members
Target Publication: YMCA Website/ Online
Peer Editor: Megan Herzing
Vaulting into the Future:
Gymnastics Program Impacts 2nd Generation
ST. LOUIS— The YMCA is more than just a fitness center for our guests, it is a place where
stories take root and futures begin. This is true for our very own member, Jane Doe. Jane’s
journey through the YMCA's gymnastics program has not only shaped her life but has created a
legacy as her daughter, Amy, now follows in her footsteps.
Janes love for gymnastics began in her childhood, where she stumbled upon the joy of
somersaults and handstands. Being an adventurous child who showed no fear, her desire to try
more grew with her age. Little did she know that those initial cartwheels would mark the
beginning of a lifelong passion that would spread through her family for generations. Janes
parents wanted the best for their daughter and her safety. After looking for the best option for her
new passion, they found the YMCA.
“I was 9 years old when I signed up for my first YMCA gymnastics class. I was always
climbing trees, hanging upside down on the monkey bars, and flipping off the top bunk bed, so
finding a safe place to channel my energy seemed like a great idea,” Jane stated.
As Jane advanced through the program, she perfected more than just her gymnastic skills.
The YMCA became a place where new friendships blossomed, confidence grew, and the value
of teamwork was set in motion. The supportive environment of teammates and coaches, which
came to be her second family, encouraged physical strength but also mental toughness. These are
lessons and skills that Jane carries with her to this day and is beyond thankful for.
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Now that Jane has her own family, she is trying to instill the same lessons in her kids she
was raised on. She shared, “Staying active during my youth was so important to me, and I want
my daughter to feel the same. She has been in gymnastics since she was 3 years old and is now 9,
competing at level 6. By participating in this program, her confidence has been boosted and she
has found a love for being active.”
Everything has come full circle for Jane and Amy as they share the same love for
gymnastics. For Jane, witnessing Amy’s enthusiasm for gymnastics at the same place where she
began her own love for the sport is nothing short of heartwarming. The YMCA has become a
shared space for both mother and daughter. As Jane cheers Amy on during competitions and
witnesses her execute new skills, the YMCA's impact extends beyond the gym, as it flows
through their family. The story of Jane and Amy is a testament to the power of community and
the lasting impact of programs that extend far beyond the routines practiced within gymnasium
walls.
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List 1 target (real) media that you intend to send the release to: (from PowerPoint instructions)

1. Publication name: St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Contact person’s name: Amy Bertrand

Title: Features editor
Email address: abertrand@post-dispatch.com
Recent article: https://www.stltoday.com/life-entertainment/local/travel/enter-our-2023-
post-dispatch-travel-photo-contest/article_66600162-8565-11ee-ad3f-
a36719d03d68.html