Y Talk: Ghouls, Ghosts and Generosity by Justin Rose

During this time of year it is easy to get caught up in the ghostly and ghoulish fun of Halloween. I know that I would always enjoy setting up the Haunted Trails as Camp Thompson. I found it to be rewarding to see so many enjoy the attractions that camp staff setup and manned during the Haunted Trails weekend. However, this year I was able to take a break and enjoy the holiday in a different way.

As many of you already know, I have 1½-year-old daughter and this was her first Halloween. She dressed as Nemo and Mommy dressed as an octopus. Daddy just had to carry everything! While making our rounds from house to house, from grandparents to friends and neighbors, I was in awe of the generosity that I witnessed. What other time of year do you see family, friends and neighbors alike all open their doors to the community and share their homes and their wonderful treats? It is easy for the word “generosity” to get lost in the Halloween tradition, but from my perspective this may be one of the best qualities of this holiday.

This led me to think about another tradition that the Y has started recently called Community Day. During Community Day the Y opens our doors and shares all that we have with the community at large. Friends, family and neighbors all are welcome and the generosity of the staff and members is amazing. The Y provides lunch, classes, games, crafts and activities for any and all to enjoy.

In fact this year we did a Floating Pumpkin Patch in the pool and when finished families got to take home a pumpkin. This may not seem like much to some of you, but for some of these families this was the only way they could afford a pumpkin. The look on the faces of the kids swimming amongst giant pumpkins was one of pure amazement and enjoyment. What a great way to spend the day.

That is why I am hoping that next year, when you are prepping for your next Halloween party or Trick or Treat night, remember the generosity of those around you and share in this tradition. Take notice of these moments, as these are the moments that pull us together as a community.

-by Justin Rose, Associate Executive Director