Earlier this month the Hammond YMCA received a pleasant surprise in the form of Jimmy Gonzales. Gonzales who previously was a sports intern for the Y transferred back in from the Southlake branch and took on the position of Program Director.
Since 2012, he has worked for 3 different YMCA branches. “It’s very eye opening to work with 3 different communities,” says Gonzales. “You get to know all of Lake County and all it has to offer.” However, he did mention that it’s hard to build programs when you’re not there long enough to create a foundation.
Currently Gonzales is busy heading up the aquatics program and other curriculums that focus on health. He is most passionate when it comes to youth sports and general fitness. “It’s fun to see a kid walk off the field with a smile on his or her face after a long time of practicing.”
When Building Supervisor George Kallas was asked about Gonzales returning to work at the Hammond YMCA, he stated “I worked with Jimmy when he first interned here and I think he’s doing a great job.”
When it’s all said and done he was just happy to be back. “I find it exciting to get back to where I first started and hope that I don’t have any more changes in my near future.”
About YMCA, Hammond Branch
For more than 40 years, the YMCA Hammond Branch has been a supporter of the community by offering a variety of programs, club memberships and helpful activities such as CPR and lifeguarding classes to the public. Located at 7322 Southeastern Ave. Hammond, IN, the main mission of the YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA is the largest non-profit organization in the country. For more information about the YMCA Hammond Branch, please visit http://www.hammondareaymca.org/ or call 219.845.1507
