“The Y is a much better environment because I’m able to do more with the kids.” -Nicola Preddie
For Nicola Preddie, being a member of the Y means being part of a family. Her family joined the Southtowns Family YMCA in 2015, and they enjoy everything the Y has to offer.
Nicola says what she loves most about the Y is the family atmosphere. “I used to belong to a different local gym, but the Y is a much better environment because I’m able to do more with the kids and it’s more affordable for us. There are so many group and family programs.” Nicola also says she feels comfortable knowing her 7-year-old daughter Jahnila is in good hands while in the Y’s free Child Watch. Jahnila also loves spending time in the Adventure Room. “It’s really fun,” she says. “I usually play games or go down the slide or climb up the mountain.”
Both of Nicola’s children take part in programs that help them stay active and have fun. Her 12-year-old son Jahveer plays in the Y’s Youth Basketball program, and Jahnila loves to swim. Nicola says the Y has positively impacted her family in more ways than one. “I think it’s good because I can take part in group exercise classes like Women on Weights or work with a personal trainer. When it comes to the kids, I really like the fact they are involved in swimming. They really like it a lot and it’s something that they need.” Jahveer says he enjoys playing other teams and has made new friends in the Y’s Youth Basketball program. “My son is able to get more help learning new skills with the coaches,” says Nicola.