YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City THE FACES OF COMMUNITY AND WELLNESS
The YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City, rooted in the principles of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, is an organization committed to uniting and strengthening our community. At its core, the YMCA strives to provide every individual, regardless of age, income, or background, with the means to flourish.
These four extraordinary leaders within the YMCA embody these principles and values, and through their dedication, drive and commitment, ensure the YMCA’s mission thrives in central Oklahoma’s diverse and vibrant community.
G eri Valdez started at the YMCA more than 20 years ago and has been growing and expanding her skills and leadership ever since. As she began her work at the Y, the mission and the people around her inspired her to finish her college degree so that, when the opportunity to be promoted to a director position arose, she was ready. Valdez is intentional about serving others, providing leadership by example and helping prepare the next generation of leaders to be the best versions of themselves. Valdez also experiences the power of diversity and inclusion in her leadership position at the Y. As she puts it, “When teams and community members of different backgrounds come together, regardless of ethnicity, culture or socioeconomic differences, it fosters the sense of belonging. There is power in diversity and I leverage it every day.” “We are all different and unique and I am intentional with modeling respect to all, even with our differences,” adds Valdez.
Geri Valdez Associate Executive Director for Youth Development
T hroughout her roles at the YMCA, Rose Jackson has learned to embrace change, acknowledging the needs to keep current projects flourishing in addition to taking on new projects, and to nurture those around her to help them identify and reach their goals. Further, Jackson recognizes that she must adapt to her constituents. “Leadership in my role at the Y embodies my ability to adjust to the ever-changing needs of our community and the children and families we serve,” says Jackson. “My ability to look at change through a different lens has allowed me to grow in my role and be able to help those around me grow, too.” Meeting community needs is found in embracing diversity, whether that be the religious and cultural beliefs of the families served at the Y or the varying family structures represented, such as single parent homes, foster parents, grandparents as parents, dual mom or dual dad homes. “Families come in a variety of shapes, sizes and backgrounds,” adds Jackson. “In my interactions with members and staff at the Y, it is important to listen first to ensure I have all pertinent information before making any decisions.”
Rose Jackson Downtown District Associate Executive Director of Youth Development
50 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / NOV-DEC 2023
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