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In the beginning...

shonnamurphy0702

Updated: Jul 11, 2024

In 2005 at the Guelph Ontario YMCA/ YWCA I was recognized in the Annual General Report that was mailed out to all of our members. This was the first time I had ever had an article written about me. I also had a video interview that was showcased at the Women of Distinction Awards that year. It's mentors like Crystal Aitkenhead, who build future leaders of tomorrow. I am thankful every day that she saw something in me, and thankful to my community's Y for integrating their core values into my life: Honesty, Caring, Respect, Responsibility. I began volunteering at the Y when I was 12 years old, had my interview on my 16th birthday as you had to be at least 16 to work there, and continued to work for the YMCA in 3 different cities for more than 10 years. In that time I ran the Leader Corps program for the Sarnia and London YMCA for four years while I was attending college. It's so cool for me to have this artifact almost 20 years later to see Crystal's comment, " I have learned a lot from Shonna and will always be inspired by her dedication and drive to achieve high levels of skill." At 16 years old I had a growth mindset. My supervisor recognized this in me, and helped me to grow. When you invest in your people, they will feel connected, apart of something bigger and in turn, give you all they've got. I am grateful to Crystal and the Y for embedding these deep routed values into my work and approach to my daily life. #YKid4Life Click here to learn about, "My Philosophy on Developing Connection and Leadership."

Shonna's Story... Year: 2005 "Being a teenager is tough. It's the middle stage between childhood and adulthood. Finding a place to fit in and feel accepted can be difficult.

As a kid I used to attend summer camps at the Y. I have fond memories of crafts, outdoor activities and inspiring leaders. This was the stepping stone for me towards the Leader Corps program at the Y. It was a perfect place for me to interact with people my own age, learn new skills, and build my self confidence. Also, working with kids has been great. I love being a part of their lives and helping them grow, just like the leaders did for me. The Leader Corps program has given me opportunities I may not have had otherwise. I was able to shadow other leaders, get advice and learn first hand how to work with young children. I've attended education programs such as Asset Development, and I've been taught how to interact with children who have special needs. Looking back, I'm not sure where I would be without the Y and Leader Corps. I definitely would not have the confidence, friends and direction I do today. I know I want to work with kids, and now I feel confident that I have the skills to further my education in this field. As for the friendships I've developed, I will always cherish them. I still keep in touch with fellow Leader Corps associates past and present. I am proud to recommend the program to other teenagers looking for a place to belong. " From Crystal Aitkenhead, Supervisor, Youth & Preschool Services...

"When I first met Shonna it was after a series of presentations on children with special needs, she was eager to get involved. I matched her with a child who had autism and required one-on-one supervision. They immediately bonded and played together that afternoon. She quickly agreed to attend Club Sunday with the child throughout the winter. Through my involvement with the Leader Corps program, I have gotten to know Shonna quite well. She has grown during her time at the Y. She has evolved as a leader and created relationships with staff and fellow Leader Corps associates that have extended beyond the Y. Anyone who knows her is aware of her love for country music and Alberta, and last year she excitedly attended the Leader Corps trip to Lethbridge, Alberta. One of the best aspects of building relationships at the Y is the opportunity to teach and learn from others. I have learned a lot from Shonna and will always be inspired by her dedication and drive to achieve high levels of skill."

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