What is your name?
Claudia Mamacas Daley
Where and how long have you volunteered with the Y?
Over 6 years at the Clippard YMCA – Colerain Senior Center
What is your favorite volunteer activity?
I do them all at the Colerain Senior Center! Most recently, I have been calling Bingo. During the pandemic, I was a part of the care team that delivered food to our seniors. I’ve done promos for the parties, hung up quilts and will try most any of the roles they need. It’s hard to choose a favorite.
What hobbies are you passionate about?
My husband and I own a 1931 Model A Ford. We are in an antique car club and we enjoy driving around and riding to shows. We are also avid birdwatchers since 1972 and have been to most of the states to see the wildlife. I never leave home without my purse and binoculars! I’m also passionate about the Senior Center and the people there!
Why do you belong to the Senior Center and what would you tell others about it?
When my husband retired, we were looking for something to do and thought we’d try out the center. The people were so welcoming. They greeted us, gave us a place at the table, and asked us to join in. We did and the rest is history. I would tell others that the Senior Center is a great place to meet new people, truly enjoy people who are around the same age, learn many, many new things and it’s where you can live life to the fullest. It’s definitely a place to have FUN. I’d tell them to they should give it a try and come and see! It’s a home away from home!
Who or what inspires you? Tell us why!
What inspires me is the PEOPLE! Putting a smile on someone’s face and bringing joy to others is what is important. Life is too short. I love to see people laugh and smile and make the most of each moment we have. It makes you happy, healthier and lighter too. I love working with people and helping to put a smile on someone’s face. Helping others to have fun, no matter what is going on in the world (and we definitely needed it this year), is what inspires me and why I do it. You might see me in a costume (Yes, she wore a chicken costume and motivated people to do The Chicken Dance at the social) or delivering meals to shut ins and sharing a moment or ten to chat. It was about not only bringing food for the body, but also about bringing food and fun for the heart and soul. People inspire me every day.
The Y’s purpose is to help people build healthy minds, bodies, and spirits. Who has helped you in your journey and what lesson have you learned that you could share with others?
My husband, dogs and all of the people I meet have helped me on my journey. I cannot name just one. I’ve learned that people need each other and if I can help someone it’s a good day. If we can make something new, make someone smile, share something positive, it’s a good day. If I can bring others along with me… it’s an even better day.