Giving Thanks for Community: How the YMCA Fosters Connection and Belonging During this Season of Gratitude

Dear YMCA Community, 

As we approach Thanksgiving, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the YMCA of Greater Seattle staff, volunteers, donors, members, participants, partners, and our entire Y family. This season is our opportunity to reflect on the connections, care, and compassion that bind us as a community. At the Y, we strive to create a community where everyone is welcomed and belongs. 

While we celebrate togetherness this holiday season, we recognize that it can also be a lonely time for some. Loneliness can affect health and have a lasting impact and its effects are more pronounced during the holidays. Research from U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy highlights that loneliness can be as harmful to our health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, contributing $6.7 billion in excess Medicare spending annually. Though technology makes it easier to connect, devices can often leave us feeling more isolated and disconnected, making human connections all the more important. Amid this challenge, there is hope: we can tackle loneliness together through simple connections and the power of community. Thanks to everyone who creates a welcoming Y community, we’re able to provide safe spaces and places of belonging where people feel seen, affirmed, supported, and accepted.  

To everyone who makes the Y special and welcoming, please accept our deepest appreciation for your dedication and passion. Your commitment to caring for your neighbor, serving our community, advancing equity and justice for all, and supporting our youth and families is inspiring and necessary, especially in this moment.  

During this season of gratitude and giving, let’s be intentional about reaching out to those who are disconnected and isolated and let them know they are not alone.  Invite them to join you for class, a workout, or a cup of coffee at the Y.  Let’s be intentional about living and sharing this message of community and belonging with those around us, especially those who are need us most.  

As you take steps to make this holiday more joyful and connected for others, may your holiday be filled with warmth, connection, and gratitude.  

In Community & Gratitude,  

Loria Yeadon  
President & CEO  
YMCA of Greater Seattle