This year, we are proud to formally introduce Beacon in the Desert, our bold strategic plan designed to guide the future of the Valley of the Sun YMCA. The Beacon represents our commitment to shine as a source of light, leadership, and hope across the communities we serve, ensuring every individual and family has access to the support they need to thrive. Anchored in our call to Be Well. Do Good. Lead Change., this vision aligns our efforts around measurable impact, expanded access, and lasting community change.

On January 28, we gathered at our Southwest Valley Family YMCA for a press conference that reflects what it truly means to Be Well. Our Chief Operating Officer, Garrett Brolsma, announced a new partnership with Government Employees Health Association to expand access to lifesaving swim instruction, and we were honored to have the moment highlighted on 12News.

Through this partnership, 250 students will receive swimming and aquatic safety lessons at no cost to their families. In a state where water safety is critical, this investment is about more than lessons. It is about protection, confidence, and care. By removing barriers and bringing the right partners together, we strengthen families, safeguard futures, and ensure every child has the opportunity to be safe, grow strong, and truly be well.

We recently kicked off our 2026 Access for All Annual Campaign, and the energy in the room was extraordinary. Doing good is intentional and collective, fueled by people who believe access and opportunity should never depend on circumstance.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and reaffirmed our shared commitment to helping individuals and families thrive. Special thanks to Jeff Scudder, Malia Sperling, Michele Grisez, Eric M. Bailey, David Verwer, Marie Davis, Lizzy Bunyard, and Gabe Legaspi for bringing the mission to life through powerful storytelling, and to Jim Pitman for hosting us at the Player 15 facility.

Access for All is more than a campaign. It is a commitment to equity, dignity, and belonging, and together we will do even more good in 2026.

During the same week, we hosted national leadership events that brought YMCA professionals from across the country to our community. Through the Executive Director Institute (EDI) and MECA programs, leaders strengthened their skills, expanded their networks, and developed clear plans for growth and operational excellence.

Thank you to board member John Ramirez for hosting the MECA gathering at the University of Phoenix campus. Your leadership and partnership made this experience possible.

Investing in leaders at this level is how we continue to Lead Change with clarity, courage, and purpose.