The empty spaces and echoing hallways make us sad--- just last week, we could hear children's laughter as they learned to swim in the pool, squeaky sneakers as members played basketball, hopping music as packed group fitness participants got their sweat on and sweet conversations as members connected with their friends in the lobby.
It's quiet at 2055 Patterson Street.
Y staff who are working in the building are spread out
--- per public health protocols. Just like you may be, everyone here feels a bit nervous, a bit out of sorts because of the disruption in their routines.
But we are working because it matters. It always has and it does now more than ever.
We are deep cleaning so members are welcomed back to a shiny, clean, ready-to-be used facility.
We are filming fitness videos with your beloved instructors and connecting you to other Y videos so you retain your strength, balance, coordination and cardio health.
We are pulling together to call ALL members to connect, check-in and record any needs of our members. We started with our older adults--- those most at risk for coronavirus, social isolation and depression. But we won't stop there. Every member in our database will get a call.
We didn't do it so you would send us love or kudos. But, as the kind, generous, warm individuals that you are, you poured your hugs, smiles, gratitude and love into written words.
Below is just a sample of what you said. So many more than this responded.
Thank you. You showed the strength of our relationships. It's not simply about what the Y does for its members, it's about the bond created between and among members and staff within an organization whose mission is to serve.
We are inspired and hopeful and calmed
because of these messages. We hope reading your fellow members' words helps you too:
"I moved to Eugene just a couple of years ago and joined the Y right away. All I could do was jog in the pool because I was waiting for a hip replacement. I immediately found community with the staff and the other exercisers, particularly the folks in the pool during the aqua jogging hour. I had just expected a good place to exercise, not a community. But the Y is all that and more. Thank you for really taking the concept of wellness to heart. Stay well yourselves and we'll see ya when this too has passed!"
"(Your message about calling members) brought tears to my eyes. You guys are doing an awesome job. I appreciate how you are handling it."
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"I had my children signed up for summer break camps next week. Regardless of your refund policy during this crazy time, we want you to know that we want you to keep our payments. We value the Y and the wonderful staff who run the childcare programs. We're fortunate to be able to work from home right now and want your staff to also be able to take care of your families. Stay safe and healthy."
"Thank you for the information. Your note provides one more reason to know
the Y is the best for exercising and friends."
"I appreciate you taking your time and energy to protect me. I really miss not exercising and interacting with Y employees and members. But I know you are doing what's best for my health. Thank you, and you have my support to do what's best for the majority. If there is anything else I can do to help, please let me know."
"Thank you for this encouraging and heartfelt (e-mail) message. Delighted that you are keeping staff employed and not without a paycheck. I hope more businesses will follow your example and have a heart when it comes to their workers. Attention needs to be paid to the millions who will be thrown (out) onto their own, unless employers step up to the plate."
"Thank you for making the decision (to close) for the members. I probably would have self-opted to stay away, but certainly was conflicted and it was actually a positive thing that in the interest of many, I did not have to make it. Please keep my dues and, if there is a way to relay a message to the yoga teachers: I miss my practice with them incredibly. I don't know what you are doing to help them with interrupted income but if there is a way I could contribute to a fund for that, please let me know. I love the Y."
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"I don't want any refunds. While I'm totally bummed out not to be there, I totally understand why it has to be like this. What we get is way above and beyond the monthly fee. I hope others will feel the same and do the same. Stay safe."
"I love that you're fielding phone calls. What a wonderful way to stay connected and remind people that their community is still there for them. Thanks for this message-it brightened my day!"
"Just a quick note from a former member who is still receiving Eugene Y emails--- your response to the COVID-19 epidemic has been the epitome of thoughtful, quality leadership. I am so impressed with your outreach and communication, as well as the ways you are continuing to advocate for the mission of the Y. While I am no longer a member for geographic convenience reasons, I am grateful for your outreach and hard work. Thank you!"
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Melissa and all your Y staff
send you love! |
"I've been out and about on the bike paths. I miss the Y and all the smiling faces and hugs. Looking forward to the return of our community."
For more warm, fuzzy feelings, click HERE to
read a letter from one of your fellow members.
Thank you for filling our hearts!
Love,
