In today’s Pathway to the (Y), we hear the impactful stories of members of Metro Atlanta’s Y Ambassador Board. Brian Kunney, Abby Paul, and Kendyl Lewis share their Y stories and how they were inspired to continue their journeys with the Y. Tune in to hear how these young leaders are impacting their communities both today and for the future.
IN THIS EPISODE:
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[0:50] Brian’s Y story began at the Decatur Family Y when he was in elementary school. With his passion for sports, Brian had many opportunities to be active and involved with the Y throughout his childhood.
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[1:40] Abby spent much of her childhood at the Y, because her family were active members of the Y before she was even born.
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[2:00] Abby’s connection with the Y became more serious during college after the Y Ambassador Board was founded.
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[3:55] Kendyl also experienced the Y from a very young age. However, high school was when she became involved in a youth leadership program that was partnered with her local Y.
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[4:15] The hosts share their gratitude. Robert shares details about the Good Neighbor gym dedication from the Hawks at State Farm.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
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After being involved in the Decatur Family Y throughout his childhood, Brian knew that he wanted to find a way to give back to the community. So, he began volunteering with the YMCA.
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Abby’s family has been active with the Y since before she was even born, so Abby spent much of her childhood at the Y. She learned how to swim, gymnastics, and how to play tennis.
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Partnerships with local programs and the Y can lead to new opportunities for people in the community, as evidenced by Kendyl’s involvement in a youth leadership program that introduced her to the Y.
RESOURCE LINKS:
Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta
Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta
Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta
Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta
Volunteer at the YMCA
YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports
YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports
BIOGRAPHIES:
Kendyl Lewis, a Y Ambassador since 2022, is the Research & Community Development Manager at Partnership Gwinnett. In her role, she conducts economic research and leads redevelopment initiatives. Before her current role, Kendyl was a Research Fellow at the Atlanta Regional Commission. A proud Atlanta native, Kendyl holds degrees in Economics and Psychology from Georgia College & State University. Beyond her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending quality time with her partner, Evan, and their energetic dog, Sampson.
Brian Kunney also joined the Y Ambassador Board in 2022. Brian is a Project Manager at the engineering firm P. Marshall & Associates (PM&A). With a decade of experience in civil engineering, he specializes in infrastructure, telecommunication development and construction projects. Graduating from Southern Polytechnic University with a degree in Architecture and a minor in Construction Management.
Abby Paul started her journey with the YMCA Ambassador Board 5 ½ years ago. She began her college career at Ole Miss before finishing at Emory University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. Currently serving as a full-time Registered Nurse at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital, Abby specializes in providing comprehensive care to liver transplant patients. Abby proudly represents the fourth generation of her family to be involved with the YMCA. Abby is recently married to her husband, Michael, and she is the proud mom of her Australian Shepherd named Reese.
