Episodes

  • Ep. 50: Senator Sonya Halpern’s Commitment to the Y & Community

    Ep. 50: Senator Sonya Halpern’s Commitment to the Y & Community
    Oct 23 2024
    We’re honored to have Georgia State Senator Sonya Halpern join us today. Senator Halpern, who leads District 39, which includes neighborhoods in Atlanta, South Fulton, College Park, East Point and Union City. She has built an extraordinary career focused on advancing education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. As the Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus and Chair of the Fulton County Delegation, her leadership extends well beyond the legislature. Senator Halpern's deep community involvement with the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the Andrew J. Young Foundation, and the YMCA of Metro Atlanta—where she's been a long-time board member—has been pivotal in advancing equity and the Y's mission. Don’t miss this conversation with such a dedicated advocate for positive change. IN THIS EPISODE: [4:42] Senator Halpern reveals why she joined the Y’s board and how her work with the Y aligned with her mission to empower underserved communities[7:13] Senator’s perspective on how the Y aligns with statewide initiatives [12:13] The Senator discusses fundamental principles she learned in building partnerships and the need for child care and pre-K learning [22:17] Discussion of Senate Bill 235 to promote growth in the communities around HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and the specific existing needs [30:25] How the Y’s commitment to youth leadership aligns with the Senator's beliefs and initiatives [35:40] The Senator explains how she remains grounded and balanced as busy as she is KEY TAKEAWAYS: The Y played a crucial role in helping to develop state-level legislation on drowning prevention, working closely with lawmakers to shape the bill that is now law. Swimming safety is a daily practice and priority at the Y.The Y’s early learning centers have mobilized volunteers to support Pre-K Reading Week, contributing to a statewide initiative and enhancing government efforts through existing programs.Literacy has been a significant focus for the Y over the past two years, recognizing that early success in kindergarten readiness is crucial for ensuring students can read at grade level by third and fifth grades. This effort is vital for building a talented, diverse, and productive future workforce, and the Y is working to ensure that all young people have the opportunity to reach their full potential through literacy initiatives. RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta Senator Sonya Halpern - Website Senator Sonya Halpern - LinkedIn BIOGRAPHY: Senator Sonya Halpern was first elected in 2020 and serves in her second term in the Georgia State Senate. Representing neighborhoods across five cities, including Atlanta, District 39 is one of the most socio-economically diverse districts in Georgia and the country. Sen. Halpern is a passionate leader blending business and political acumen with a heart for community. She has quickly embraced leadership roles as the elected Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus and Chair of the Fulton County Delegation. She is a proud co-sponsor/sponsor of more than 15 bills, now Georgia state law. Sen. Halpern’s engagement with the community extends beyond politics. She currently serves on the YMCA of Metro Atlanta's Executive Committee, where she co-chaired their $70 million “Here for Good” campaign. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Regents at the University of Hartford. She is a founding co-chair of the Electing Women Alliance/Atlanta, a founding member of the Atlanta School for the Arts Foundation, a lifetime member of the NAACP, a member of the League of Women Voters, and the African American Leadership Council of the Democratic National Committee. Sen. Halpern earned her Master's in Business Administration from the University of Hartford’s International MBA program and a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She lives in Atlanta with her husband and three children.
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    39 mins
  • Ep. 49 - Igniting Imagination: The Y’s After-School Programs Empower Youth

    Ep. 49 - Igniting Imagination: The Y’s After-School Programs Empower Youth
    Oct 9 2024
    Today, we’re exploring the exciting world of youth development, focusing on the Y's reimagined after-school programs and our newly launched middle school clubs. Joining us are two outstanding leaders at the forefront of these efforts: Shauna-Kaye Davis, Vice President of Youth Programs for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, and Tatyana Ferguson, Youth Development Director with the Villages at Carver Family YMCA in South Atlanta. Together, they’re transforming after-school hours into a time for exploration, imagination, and growth. From engaging clubs to career exploration and social-emotional learning, we’ll hear how the Y provides youth the tools they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom. IN THIS EPISODE: [04:41] Explanation of the After-School Initiative [11:05] Programming is built around a monthly theme and discussion of middle school-age kids [21:47] Example of how the program has made a difference in families and what influences programming [29:58] Discussion of “The Island” in the lab [35:26] Tatyana and Shauna-Kaye share why they love the work, and they discuss the legacy left behind [40:39] Parents should contact After-School Directors or the website to find out more KEY TAKEAWAYS: The After-School Initiative program overhauls the after-school programs developed in the 70s. The new curriculum combines programs that interest the kids while teaching them exploration, imagination and growth. The staff of the After-School Initiative program meets the kids where they are. They don’t speak down to them; Kids are humans, and humans are complex. Parents can always know what their child is doing and learning at the Y because there is a virtual bulletin board with a QR code. Parents can scan it while waiting to pick up their kids. RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: After-School Programs BIOGRAPHIES: Shauna-Kaye Davis is a first-generation American with Jamaican roots. She is originally from Cary, NC, and developed a passion for nonprofit youth development after growing up in her local Cary Family YMCA. An international travel enthusiast and new mom of 3, Shauna-Kaye enjoys exposing her family to new international cuisine- even when they don’t want her to! With 24 years of experience in youth development and program design across Georgia and North Carolina, Shauna-Kaye is recognized for her innovative approach and visionary leadership. She has successfully facilitated new processes and crafted creative programs that impact lives. As a former leader and coach for over 20 Boys & Girls Club Directors in Metro Atlanta, she has influenced the lives of more than 3,500 youth and families, driving growth and development across multiple club sites. As the Y's Vice President of Youth Programs, Shauna-Kaye's philosophy centers on empowering youth and community organizations to craft and implement strategies that lead to sustainable success. She excels in big-picture thinking and leverages her strategic planning expertise to tackle challenges while consistently delivering high-quality results. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in Law from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Shauna-Kaye has served as Chairperson for the Guilford County NAACP, United Way of Greater Atlanta's Young Professional Leaders program and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. Tatyana Ferguson serves as Youth Development Director at The Villages at Carver Family YMCA. She began her Y career in 2014 in Albany, Georgia, as a part-time Afterschool counselor while in college, where she discovered a love for youth and developing others. She came to the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. She continued her career journey by leading Afterschool, Camp, and Teen Programming and developing and coaching a successful competitive cheerleading program. She is passionate about leading others and professional development. Her goal is to continue to provide a supportive climate and culture at the Y that is conducive to building relationships and creating a sense of belonging and achievement for this community’s youth and their families. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Services focusing on Child and Adolescent Development and a minor in African American Studies. She considers herself a lifelong learner as she continues to advance her postgraduate education in Human Services with a specialization in Leadership and Nonprofit Management.
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    42 mins
  • Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y

    Ep. 48 - Finding Strength Through Community at the Y
    Sep 25 2024

    Today, on (Y) Connect, we share a touching and inspiring story highlighting the transformative power of community, fitness, and perseverance. Louisa Merchant, a dedicated YMCA member, and Cindy Augustin, a beloved group exercise instructor who has played a pivotal role in Louisa’s journey, are joining us. Recently, Louisa penned a heartfelt letter to YMCA leaders, reflecting on her experience over the past few months and how the Y has helped her regain physical strength and a renewed sense of hope. We’re thrilled to have them here to share their incredible stories and the profound impact the YMCA has had on their lives.

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    • [2:24] Louisa shares what initially drew her to the Y and kept her connected for 15 years, and Cindy responds to Louisa’s heartfelt feelings about the Y, and Louisa discusses the difficulty in reconnecting with her body after the pandemic

    • [9:13] Cindy talks about the atmosphere she creates in her class, and Louisa shares how the diversity offered at the Y built her confidence

    • [18:46] Louisa discusses how the Y helps her in her position as she works with the All Saints Church in their refugee program, and she gives examples of how the Y has helped refugees

    • [24:20] Cindy discusses the collaboration she is looking forward to with her daughter, who was recently hired, and Louisa talks about the importance of human relationships

    • [29:27] Cindy shares her Y story, and Louisa shares how it feels to be a part of an organization that makes such a wide-reaching impact on lives across Atlanta

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • The Y is a safe place. It offers personal safety and an atmosphere of acceptance, no matter what your background

    • Cindy makes her SokaSweat class fun for every age and ability to participate at their level

    • Louisa felt confident about doing a cycling class because she trusted Linda, the trainer, and felt comfortable with her

    RESOURCE LINKS:

    Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    BIOGRAPHIES:

    Louisa Merchant, a member of the YMCA for 15 years, is the director of All Saints Episcopal Church Refugee Ministries and connects volunteers to work in teams to help refugee families adjust to the difficult transition of living in the US. She credits dancing and being in the Y community empowering her to be more present in the world.

    Cindy Augustin has been a Group Exercise Instructor at the East Lake YMCA since September 2022. She and her family became members of the Y in 2016. She teaches Dance parties and Line Dance, but her journey with dance did not start there. Cindy’s curiosity and passion for dance began in high school while participating in a church play. This led to her participation in various genres of dance classes. In 2000, Cindy left her job as a business analyst to start a family with her husband. However, she continued to pursue her passion for dance by creating a Performing Arts company, Vessels Arts and Education, in 2011 with her three daughters as her first students. As her company grew, it led to teaching opportunities at various private and public schools. Cindy now applies her analytical skills to assess community needs. She aims to use her Caribbean culture, arts, and fitness to facilitate creative and fun classes, transforming timid and disinterested students into self-health advocates.
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    37 mins
  • Ep. 47: Fostering Belonging: Welcoming Week at the Y

    Ep. 47: Fostering Belonging: Welcoming Week at the Y
    Sep 11 2024

    Today, we’re celebrating Welcoming Week 2024, a time dedicated to fostering inclusion and building bridges between all members of our community. With the theme "Belonging Begins With Us," we’ll explore how the Y creates spaces where everyone feels they belong. Jamie Day and Rob Wilson who lead membership efforts at the Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA are joining us, and they will share their insights and experiences on making Welcoming Week a powerful expression of community connection.

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    • [0:42] The hosts use their imaginations
    • [3:54] Welcoming Week 2024 and Jamie and Rob give an overview of their positions at the Tull-Gwinnett Family Y
    • [7:04] Discussion of what it is like being a Y member at Tull-Gwinnett. Jamie shares the work that led her to work with Hispanic communities and what the Y5 team has accomplished through the YUSA grant
    • [16:20] Rob discusses why Welcoming Week is crucial for the Y
    • [19:53] Jamie explains how they foster connections between newcomers and long-standing members, and Rob says the success of Welcoming Week is the Y stories they hear
    • [25:07] Both Jamie and Rob share memorable stories from past Welcoming Weeks
    • [28:38] Jamie and Rob share their Y stories

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • The Y has added the ability to translate data on its website into your native language
    • Y5 is a smaller group of professionals focusing on strategically advancing topic-specific goals
    • The Y is free during Welcoming Week. Come check it out

    RESOURCE LINKS:

    Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    BIOGRAPHIES:

    Jamie earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from the University of North Georgia, where she honed her skills in public relations, media, and marketing.

    Starting in 2015 at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, with just a few hours per week, she worked up to the Membership Experience Director position after graduation. In her current role, she leads enhancing member retention, acquisition, and growth, ensuring we provide outstanding service and value to our dynamic community. Outside work, she enjoys tackling DIY projects, playing with her dog, and finding the perfect cup of coffee. With an ever-curious mind and a commitment to helping others, she brings a positive attitude and a smile to everything she does, striving to make a meaningful impact. Jamie is passionate about fostering equitable and welcoming spaces and bridging gaps to create inclusive environments.

    Rob Wilson earned a B.A. in Communications from the University of Louisiana. Through college, he fundraised for NPR, public television and college radio. After earning a degree, he worked in children’s book publishing, and he has

    Twenty years experience in property management with a focus on renovation, construction, and repurposing of town properties. His journey with the Y started in 2008, working part-time at the Y's front desk, then as a wellness coach, and ultimately becoming a Membership Experience Director. Rob's passion is engaging our senior community, as he started Lifelong Learners at the Tull-Gwinnett Family Y and the Fowler Family Y.

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    34 mins
  • Pathway to the (Y) - Jeff Beckham and Clark Dean

    Pathway to the (Y) - Jeff Beckham and Clark Dean
    Sep 4 2024

    Today we are highlighting Jeff Beckham and Clark Dean’s Pathway to the (Y) stories. We learn that both of our guests became involved at the Y at a young age and their families both were active participants in sports and youth programs throughout the years. Because the Y has made a lasting impact on both of their families, which is a big reason they choose to serve the Y and their community.

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    • [1:00] Jeff learned how to swim at his local YMCA at a young age. When he became a father and it was time for his children to learn how to swim, Jeff enrolled his sons at the Y.

    • [2:18] Clark also swam at his local YMCA when he was a young boy, when his swim team would use the Y’s pool. He then became a lifeguard at the YMCA.

    • [2:50] When Clark and his family moved to Atlanta, he and his family became involved with the Y. Clark’s son started playing soccer and fell in love with the sport. He went on to play 4 years of college soccer.



    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • When parents have such great memories of their childhood experiences at the Y, they likely want to give their children the same opportunities.

    • The Y is a welcoming place that helps make a lasting impact on people.

    • The sports program at the Y has a lasting impact on participants, whether they play for a year or all the way through college.

    RESOURCE LINKS:

    Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    YMCA Atlanta Membership - Website

    BIOGRAPHIES:

    Jeffrey Beckham is Head of Portfolio and Asset Management and a member of GID’s Executive and Investment Committees. He is responsible for leading the multifamily and retail asset management team, overseeing the multifamily, industrial and credit portfolio management teams, guiding the ESG effort across GID, and supporting the development of new investment products for the company.

    Previously, Mr. Beckham worked at Jamestown, where he served as Head of Institutional Investment Management and Fund Manager for Jamestown’s flagship open-end vehicle, the Premier Property Fund. Before Jamestown, Mr. Beckham worked at Tishman Speyer in New York and Atlanta, focusing primarily on acquisitions and development deals. Before Tishman Speyer, Mr. Beckham worked at Hines in London, England, focusing on development projects and Morgan Stanley Real Estate in New York, London, and Tokyo, focusing on principal investing and advisory assignments.

    Mr. Beckham is married and is the father of two boys who play basketball and learn how to swim at the YMCA. He received a BBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

    Clark Dean helped direct Transwestern’s Tenant Representation and Workplace Solutions business and founded the company’s Transaction Sciences Group, which operates across asset classes and service lines. Clark is a Transwestern Board of Directors member and its National Tenant.

    Representation and Workplace Solutions Steering Committee. He also helps lead the company’s global partnerships with BNP Paribas Real Estate and Encore Advisors. With a background in biomedical engineering, management consulting, and financial structuring, Clark is known for being a disruptive innovator. His Transaction Sciences Group helps build businesses, grow non-profits, and enrich communities by structuring better solutions for real estate occupiers and investors. Clark and his wife have three children, all of whom grew up going to the Carl E. Sanders at Buckhead YMCA. He graduated cum laude with an A.B. in Engineering and Biological Sciences from Harvard University, where he played varsity football, served as a class officer, and delivered the Harvard College oration as a graduating senior.
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    7 mins
  • Ep. 46: Passing the Torch: A Conversation w/ YMCA Board Leaders Jeff Beckham and Clark Dean

    Ep. 46: Passing the Torch: A Conversation w/ YMCA Board Leaders Jeff Beckham and Clark Dean
    Aug 28 2024
    In this episode of Y Connect, we have the privilege of sitting down with Jeff Beckham, the esteemed Board Chair, and Clark Dean, the Vice Chair of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. As Clark prepares to step into the role of Board Chair, we reflect on Jeff's impactful tenure and look ahead to the future under Clark's leadership. With a combined wealth of experience, Jeff and Clark discuss the challenges, successes, and milestones that have shaped the YMCA's 166-year legacy in Atlanta. From navigating the onset of COVID-19 to fostering community partnerships, including a significant collaboration with the Atlanta Hawks, this conversation offers a deep dive into the meaningful work of one of the city's oldest and largest nonprofit organizations. Join us as we explore how the YMCA continues to build a lasting impact, guided by visionary leadership and a commitment to serving the community. IN THIS EPISODE: [2:53] Jeff and Clark reflect on how they each became connected to the board of the YMCA of Metro Atlanta [7:08] Jeff reflects on the challenges the Y faced with the onset of COVID and the purpose behind the board [10:17] Clark shares the 165-year history of the Y and discusses community engagement [13:24] Jeff and Clark look back on significant milestones and accomplishments and discuss the partnership with the Atlanta Hawks [21:25] Jeff shares some of the biggest challenges the board has faced, and Clark discusses his vision for the future [30:20] Discussion of getting outside the walls of the Y through the existing strategic plan, and Clark shares what he sees as the biggest hurdles in the coming years [36:38] Discussion of the Shepherd Center and 95-year-old Alana Shepherd [41:26] Jeff and Clark discuss how the community and stakeholders can best support the YMCA, and they encourage membership and participation [46:45] Jeff and Clark share their Y story KEY TAKEAWAYS: For 165 years, the Atlanta YMCA has been the largest nonprofit in the state of Georgia, providing a legacy that will endure through the next generation The Y is a paid membership-driven program that allows others who cannot pay to participate in the programs The board is looking for future leaders, young professionals and executives who will contribute their time and energy to their communities to help fulfill their potential RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta Jeff Beckham - LinkedIn Clark Dean - LinkedIn BIOGRAPHY: Jeffrey Beckham is Head of Portfolio and Asset Management and a member of GID’s Executive and Investment Committees. He is responsible for leading the multifamily and retail asset management team, overseeing the multifamily, industrial and credit portfolio management teams, guiding the ESG effort across GID, and supporting the development of new investment products for the company. Previously, Mr. Beckham worked at Jamestown, where he served as Head of Institutional Investment Management and Fund Manager for Jamestown’s flagship open-end vehicle, the Premier Property Fund. Before Jamestown, Mr. Beckham worked at Tishman Speyer in New York and Atlanta, focusing primarily on acquisitions and development deals. Before Tishman Speyer, Mr. Beckham worked at Hines in London, England, focusing on development projects and Morgan Stanley Real Estate in New York, London, and Tokyo, focusing on principal investing and advisory assignments. Mr. Beckham is married and is the father of two boys who play basketball and learn how to swim at the YMCA. He received a BBA from the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Clark Dean helped direct Transwestern’s Tenant Representation and Workplace Solutions business and founded the company’s Transaction Sciences Group, which operates across asset classes and service lines. Clark is a Transwestern Board of Directors member and its National Tenant. Representation and Workplace Solutions Steering Committee. He also helps lead the company’s global partnerships with BNP Paribas Real Estate and Encore Advisors. With a background in biomedical engineering, management consulting, and financial structuring, Clark is known for being a disruptive innovator. His Transaction Sciences Group helps build businesses, grow non-profits, and enrich communities by structuring better solutions for real estate occupiers and investors. Clark and his wife have three children, all of whom grew up going to the Carl E. Sanders at Buckhead YMCA. He graduated cum laude with an A.B. in Engineering and Biological Sciences from Harvard University, where he played varsity football, served as a class officer, and delivered the Harvard College oration as a graduating senior.
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    53 mins
  • Pathway to the (Y) - Saba Long and Tommy Pearce

    Pathway to the (Y) - Saba Long and Tommy Pearce
    Aug 20 2024

    Today’s Pathway to the (Y) features Saba Long, the Executive Director of Atlanta Civic Circle, and Tommy Pearce, Executive Director of Neighborhood Nexus. Join this laughter filled episode as we hear how the Y community and rec soccer have impacted their lives.

    IN THIS EPISODE:

    • [0:50] Saba reveals how her friends’ involvement with the Y throughout her youth was the beginning of her Y story.

    • [1:30] Saba’s personal Y story began today, through her conversation with Allison, Robert, and Zarinah.

    • [1:40] Tommy’s story began earlier in life through soccer. Though he didn’t grow up to be a professional soccer player, he still remembers his time playing and his early years at the Y.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS:

    • The Y community doesn’t just impact the lives of Y members, it also reaches into the lives of their family and friends.

    • Rec sports can make an early impact in people’s lives, one of the many reasons these programs are so important.

    RESOURCE LINKS:

    Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

    Atlanta Civic Circle - Website

    Neighborhood Nexus - Website

    Atlanta POV - Website

    BIOGRAPHIES:

    Saba Long is the Executive Director of Atlanta Civic Circle, a nonprofit news outlet dedicated to informing the public on the most critical issues facing metro Atlanta by providing in-depth reporting and presenting possible solutions with opportunities for civic engagement online and in the community. She has served on numerous local nonprofit boards and provided communications expertise to Georgia-based political campaigns and ballot initiatives.

    Tommy Pearce

    Mission-driven organizations should have access to actionable insights to inform their decisions—our communities depend on it. As Executive Director of Neighborhood Nexus, Tommy Pearce is working to do just that. With a background in research, strategic planning, and nonprofit management, he has worked with hundreds of Georgia organizations to maximize their impact with data. Tommy has an MSW from the University of Pittsburgh and a BA in History from Georgia Southern. He’s a lifelong Gwinnettian, and he currently resides with his wife, two daughters, and a growing stack of books he will never finish. Connect on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tommypearce.
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    4 mins
  • Ep. 45: Sharing Your Voice with Atlanta’s Leaders

    Ep. 45: Sharing Your Voice with Atlanta’s Leaders
    Aug 14 2024
    Many say they join the Y because of a shared passion for strengthening the community. With our vision of building communities where everyone belongs, it’s vital that the people in our communities feel understood and heard. Recognizing we can’t do this work alone, two organizations join (Y) Connect today to talk about how they’re capturing the voices of Metro Atlanta to better understand our communities’ priorities, opinions, and values. IN THIS EPISODE: [3:26] Saba Long shares the background of Atlanta Civic Circle and explains how they report news [5:26] Tommy Pearce explains what Neighborhood Nexus does, and he describes how Atlanta POV came together [7:29] Saba gives the specifics of how Atlanta Civic Circle and Neighborhood Nexus work together for the community [10:06] Tommy gives an example of how citizen input can impact initiatives and outcomes and what insights and trends they have discovered since Atlanta POV was initiated [17:11] Saba explains how data collected brings the stories to life [22:16] Discussion surrounding how the work of the Atlanta POV aligns with the Y’s emphasis on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility [24:12] Saba gives an example of focus group concerns [27:44] Discussion regarding issues of different demographics, racial divide and how those play into data obtained, future planning for Atlanta POV, and incentives for respondents completing surveys [34:11] The guests explain their Pathway to the Y KEY TAKEAWAYS: The Atlanta Civic Circle takes a different approach to news. They dive into the issues, explain them, and give the reader tools to engage with them if they desire Studies show that the burden of summer childcare impacts the family income because parents have to work fewer hours to care for their children, or work more hours to afford the extra childcare. Many families need help using or finding appropriate and affordable child care Neighborhood Nexus collects data from thousands of people immediately. That is why they conduct surveys about summer programming or childcare at the beginning of summer; the issue is relevant, and leaders can use the data to solve immediate problems RESOURCE LINKS: Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta Atlanta Civic Circle - Website Neighborhood Nexus - Website Atlanta POV - Website BIOGRAPHY: Saba Long is the Executive Director of Atlanta Civic Circle, a nonprofit news outlet dedicated to informing the public on the most critical issues facing metro Atlanta by providing in-depth reporting and presenting possible solutions with opportunities for civic engagement online and in the community. She has served on numerous local nonprofit boards and provided communications expertise to Georgia-based political campaigns and ballot initiatives. Tommy Pearce Mission-driven organizations should have access to actionable insights to inform their decisions—our communities depend on it. As Executive Director of Neighborhood Nexus, Tommy Pearce is working to do just that. With a background in research, strategic planning, and nonprofit management, he has worked with hundreds of Georgia organizations to maximize their impact with data. Tommy has an MSW from the University of Pittsburgh and a BA in History from Georgia Southern. He’s a lifelong Gwinnettian, and he currently resides with his wife, two daughters, and a growing stack of books he will never finish. Connect on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tommypearce.
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    37 mins