Nate Irving has not been a YMCA employee for very long, but in the short time he’s been at the Whitaker Family YMCA, he’s already left an indelible mark. Nate is always a smiling face and trusted leader for the children enrolled in the Y’s summer day camp and school’s day out programs. He is also expanding his responsibilities into sports. We sat down with Nate to chat about what makes the Y a great place to work and what has been meaningful to him.
So, Nate, you’ve been with us just over a year. Can you talk about what you’ve learned about the YMCA in this time? I appreciate what the Y provides to the community and how we support and embody Christian values in our core beliefs and mission. I love that the Y is focused on our community, welcoming families and offering programming for all ages. I was hired as an assistant director for summer camp and have been a youth coordinator, so I’m seeing firsthand the impact of the Y on kids and the resource we can be for their families.
You’re already experiencing the ways the Y can be a place to try many different roles! Are you enjoying the variety? Absolutely! The Y and some of my co-workers have helped me to become a better professional, as well as a more competent and confident leader. I’ve had opportunities to participate in some of the YMCA leadership trainings, which is helping me develop skills and is an investment in my career.
You even got to attend Campfire in North Carolina this year, right? Yes! The YMCA puts on a camp and youth development conference every year and I was able to go this year. It was two and a half days of learning and growing and it was a ton of fun! It was kind of like camp for camp professionals, which was cool. I appreciated that the staff here sent me.
So…lots of roles, working with kids – we can read between the lines: when you’re at work, you’re probably always “on” and fully engaged! What do you like to do in your free time, when you’re away from the Y? I have a lot of outdoor hobbies, and I like to stay active. I love to hike and camp and take my dog on walks. On the other hand, I also enjoy playing video games and board games!
What do you see for yourself in the future at the Y? I am very excited about the opportunities that the Y is opening up for me. I am also grateful for the experience and the way my supervisors are helping me to keep learning and growing.
We think the future is bright for Nate, and for the Y with him on our team! Even if you don’t have kids in the programs at Whitaker, you might see him at the Welcome Desk covering a shift to greet our members. Be sure and say hello the next time you see him and high five him for the great work he’s been doing.
