Perspective: Learning to Swim Boosts Confidence

Darlene Stalmach always wanted to know how to swim. She took lessons more than 25 years ago but never finished. A recent knee replacement motivated her to enroll in adult swim lessons.

“I was looking for a total-body and low-impact exercise,” said Darlene. “Swimming has given me the confidence and motivation to go to the Y, try different activities and meet new people.”

Darlene is afraid of heights. Diving into the water from the diving block required Darlene to overcome an additional fear. “I attempted it twice and backed down. My instructor Brandi encouraged me. Eventually, I did overcome my fear and I dove it! It was a definite milestone for me.”

“I have a 13-year-old granddaughter and she doesn’t know how to swim either. I hope I can be her role model and maybe someday teach her,” said Darlene.

THROUGH THE YEARS, A FAMILY GROWS TOGETHER

When Ken Nickson was 14, playing pick-up basketball and lifting weights at the YMCA, he never imagined how the Y would be part of his

‘I’M SO GRATEFUL TO HAVE THIS TIME.’

Michele Nowacinski loves being a stay-at-home mom to her three young children, but with no family in the area and a homeschooling routine to maintain,

FEMALE FRIENDSHIP FORGED AT THE Y

When I wanted to write a story about the connections that can be made at the Y, I thought of Lindsay and Sabrina. The bond

OUR MISSION

At the YMCA of Greater Erie, we put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA of Greater Erie is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization.

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Perspective: Learning to Swim Boosts Confidence

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THROUGH THE YEARS, A FAMILY GROWS TOGETHER

‘I’M SO GRATEFUL TO HAVE THIS TIME.’

FEMALE FRIENDSHIP FORGED AT THE Y

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OUR MISSION