Dee is truly the heart and soul of our Member Experience team, radiating warmth, dedication, and a personal touch in everything she does. Twice a week, without fail, she greets every member by name, creating an atmosphere of belonging and community that makes each visit special. Whether it’s offering a welcoming tour to newcomers or meticulously organizing our filing system, Dee’s attention to detail ensures that our YMCA runs smoothly. She’s so dedicated to keeping everything in order that she jokingly asks the staff not to touch her files while she’s on vacation—she’ll gladly set them straight when she returns!
Recently, Dee went above and beyond by completing Daxko training, further expanding her skill set to help members update their accounts and ensure seamless operations behind the scenes. Her proactive approach and love for our YMCA family don’t go unnoticed. Both staff and members feel her absence deeply when she’s not here, often checking in just to make sure everything’s okay.
Dee believes that volunteering is one of the best ways to connect with her community, and it shows in every interaction she has. Through her role, she gets to engage with her neighbors, the staff, and even the college students at the front desk—who help keep her young at heart! She finds joy in interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds, embracing the diversity of our YMCA family. The smiles of the children especially brighten her days, and she loves celebrating alongside members when they achieve their personal goals.
For Dee, volunteering is a two-way street. While she gives so much to the YMCA, she also feels she’s gained so much in return—whether it’s the relationships she’s built, the laughter she shares, or the deep sense of purpose that comes from making a difference in the lives of others. Her love for the community and her joy shared reminds us of the personal fulfillment that volunteering can bring. Her passion for giving back, combined with the deep friendships and memories she’s created, make her an irreplaceable part of our family.
Congratulations Dee on being selected as R.C. Durr YMCA’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year!