Monday, June 18, 2007

Celebrating 20 Years at the YMCA

Clare McKenna held many positions before becoming executive director of the Yorba Linda/Placentia YMCA.

By CAROLINA RUIZ-MEJIA

The Orange County Register

YORBA LINDA - Clare McKenna, executive director of the Yorba Linda/Placentia YMCA, began her career at the club 20 years ago as a camp leader earning $3.35 an hour.

In her two decades at the club, McKenna has held many positions, including overseeing aquatics and family programs, before becoming director in 2003.

"I want the YMCA to be seen as a cornerstone for the community, where we embrace all ages, races and incomes," said McKenna who plans to be around for as long as the club keeps her.

Question:Can you describe your experience at the YMCA?

Answer: My experience has been spontaneous and exciting. It has been a learning experience for me, having learned from the members in the community. I look forward to challenging opportunities and trying to meet set expectations. I have come to realize how the YMCA really strengthens the community.

Q:What have you enjoyed the most in the past 20 years?

A: I love being an integral part of the lives of people of all ages in the community. I hope that I have had as significant an impact on our members as they have had on me.

Q:What has been the most challenging thing you've faced in your time here?

A: Learning that the YMCA is not who I am, it is what I do. I learned that lesson the hard way when I lost someone very dear to me, making me realize that life is so fleeting and at any moment we may be gone. It made me realize that it's not about what you do, but who you are.

Q:How has the YMCA evolved in the two decades you've been around?

A: The YMCA has expanded from offering only day camps, aquatics and parent/child (programs) to adult sports, youth sports, senior fitness, and phenomenal fundraising events such as the Kid's Classic Golf Tournament, La Vie en Rose Brunch and Casino Night. This year our fundraising will reach an all time high of $400,000. We have expanded programming through partnerships with PYLUSD, Placentia-Linda Hospital , apartment complexes, Home Owner's Associations and back yard pools, serving our members at more than 40 sites in the community.

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