At YMCA Calgary, stories of personal and professional growth are woven into every corner of our community. Amy McDowell, a lifeguard and swim instructor at Shane Homes YMCA at Rocky Ridge, is a great example of how the YMCA helps people grow.
Amy’s Y Story began long before she got her lifeguard whistle.
“I was three years old in a parent and tot class with my father,” Amy recalls. “My father is a big believer that everyone should be able to swim, and his children were no exception. I took all my lessons at Melcor YMCA at Crowfoot from Parent Tot up to my national lifeguard certification.”
By the time Amy turned 16, she knew she wanted to work at the YMCA. “I remember looking up at the lifeguards as a child and thinking I wanted to be just like them and help people. So, I did.” In her first year of high school, she became a lifeguard and volunteer swim instructor.
“The Y feels like a second home,” she shares. “The YMCA is like a family where I have created so many happy memories already and continue to. There is never a dull moment at our facility.”
Her growth journey hasn’t been without challenges. Amy acknowledges that working in aquatics isn’t always smooth sailing. “You will always be learning something or putting yourself in situations that will test your skills and abilities.” she explains, adding how she has also felt immense support from her team throughout.
For Amy, her job goes beyond keeping swimmers safe. It’s about creating a welcoming, joyful space for everyone who walks through the doors.
“To me, the YMCA means a place of happiness and belonging… This community and workforce bring nothing but joy to mind and I always tell others if you are looking for a place to introduce your children to new activities bring them here to Shane Homes YMCA.”
Amy’s journey from swim student to leader is a testament to the transformative power of the YMCA. “I can’t imagine working anywhere else because of the great experiences I have had and continue to have with YMCA Calgary.” she says. “It goes along with a quote that I live by and that is ‘do what you love and love what you do’”.
Are you ready to make a difference and join the YMCA aquatics team? Like Amy, you could find a second home where you are not just making waves, but making a lifetime of memories.