National

YMCA Executive: It’s A Testament to What We’re Trying To Do

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The YMCA has played an integral role on the island of Grand Bahama.

Published

8 months ago

April 22, 2024

Italia Hall

GRAND BAHAMA, BAHAMAS – The YMCA has played an integral role on the island of Grand Bahama.

Whether it’s swimming, soccer, martial arts, tennis, baseball or even after-school learning, the YMCA has become a home to many of Grand Bahamas’ young people.

But as we know, the catastrophic twin storms – Frances and Jeanne – destroyed the facility that was constructed in 1970. Since then, they have managed to repair some areas despite the island’s economic challenges.

But as the saying goes, “It’s the small wins on the long journey that make a difference.”

Recently the facility got a facelift as a part of the Beautiful Grand Bahama program.

YMCA Executive Director Karon Pinder-Johnson says the move came after a small conversation with the Minister of Grand Bahama Ginger Moxey.

Johnson reflecting on a donation of some 20 gallons of paint from Kelley’s.

The Beautiful Grand Bahama program which started as a 12-week program in April 2022 with 100 people to clean up the urban areas was relaunched last year.

In addition to painting, workers from the program fixed the baseball dugout on the sporting grounds.

Johnson admits this upgrade has enhanced their work in the community.