We’re extremely excited to continue our Y’s Cause-Driven Leader initiative to recognize staff members who manifest our cause-driven culture in their character and attitude. These employees further the Y’s mission through exemplary service to the Y, our community, and/or their fellow employees. They live our cause each day and are welcoming, genuine, hopeful, nurturing and determined.
Please join us in honoring and congratulating the following Y employees for their service to our community in 2023:
Deb Isidro, January 2023
Deb started at the New Canaan YMCA in 2016 in a part-time capacity – where she has been of incredible help in multiple departments and various roles including administrative support and member relations. She was nominated by multiple co-workers, who tell us:
“Deb is always willing to offer back-office support. Her broad knowledge of aquatic teams, programs, and human resource policies is invaluable when quickly needing an answer or providing someone with a direction to find that answer. Her understanding and proficiency with the various computer applications has been most helpful for the Front Desk staff. Deb is kind, caring, and patient, it’s a true pleasure working with her!”
In recognition of her skills, dedication, and value to the YMCA, Deb has just been promoted to a full-time position as Program Administrative Support. In this new role, Deb will continue to focus on working with Aquatics, Youth and Family programs, HR, and Back Office departments – truly supporting nearly every one of us in one way or another.
Deb is extremely knowledgeable, hardworking, and patient. She is an asset to our Y and truly a cause driven leader.
Parker Licari, February 2023
Parker wears many hats at the New Canaan YMCA: Personal Trainer, Group Exercise Instructor, and Total Youth Conditioning Coach.
Whether they are teaching a class or training individuals, it is clear how much Parker cares about each member’s well-being and truly wants each and every one to succeed, regardless of age or level of fitness. Our Wellness Director, Eva Saint, reports parents providing wonderful feedback about how much Parker has helped their kids to feel more confident and motivated after training together.
Parker also doesn’t shy away from additional assignments, and can be found filling in at the Wellness Desk when needed. We are very lucky to have such a wonderful, dedicated staff member as Parker.
Josefina Santos, March 2023
Josefina began working at the New Canaan YMCA in 2006 and has been a welcoming friendly face at the Front Desk for nearly 20 years.
Mary Coleman, Membership Director, says “Josefina goes beyond–she is instrumental in creating a welcoming desk.” She often creates floral arrangements for different holidays, which elicit appreciation from our members. Josefina offers a helping hand to our senior members or those who may need extra assistance.
Her co-worker shared: “Josefina is the most amazing co-worker. She always gives 100% to colleagues and members alike. She greets every member with a smile and a ‘good morning/good afternoon.’ The Front Desk is elevated to the next level of service because of Josefina!”
Thank you, Josefina, for all you do for the New Canaan YMCA, and for effortlessly being a Cause Driven Leader!
Congratulations to our Cause-Driven leaders! Do you know a Y employee who you feel should be honored? Submit a nomination form online at https://www.newcanaanymca.org/cause-driven-leaders/