At the YMCA, we believe in people. We see their potential. We find strength in telling stories of our differences and find inspiration in sharing our diversity – all with the purpose of bringing us closer together.
Meet Ivan Cruz, the Tutoring Supervisor at Saddletowne YMCA. Ivan initially joined the organization because of his passion for math, but he quickly fell in love with the community and the impact he could make on the lives of young people.
Ivan plays a vital role in supporting high school completion for youths facing financial and academic need. He finds fulfillment in seeing kids grow, become more confident, and develop new skills. He also sees his role as a form of personal growth, as he shares his own experiences and reflects on the importance of asking for help.
“Everyone can come to the Y and feel welcome. It’s a place for growth.”
During his time with the Y, Ivan has gained a heightened sense of empathy and kindness. He is always looking for ways to introduce more opportunities for the kids in the program, not just in terms of tutoring, but also in terms of providing a safe and fun environment for the kids. He's also been able to develop his own skills, including communication and interpersonal skills, as well as organization and database management.
“I’m always looking for new ways to get the kids engaged and make the Y as welcoming as possible.”
Ivan encourages people to learn more about the programs offered by the community YMCA, as he himself did not know about them when he was a member years ago. He believes that the YMCA is not just a place for fitness, but also a place of community, growth, and support.
YMCA Calgary delivers programs, services and opportunities to help Calgarians connect, build life-long skills, and keep active and healthy. Individuals like Ivan help the Y create spaces that are welcoming and inspiring.
If you have a Y Story, reach out to us at communications@calgary.ymca.ca