As we enter this New Year a challenge to each of is to commit ourselves to excellence as we run our own race. With these qualities in mind we can do more and be better than ever as we take on the challenge of life.

My idea of quality time spent with my loved ones changed. I craved meaningful time spent with family and friends.

Maybe, just maybe, we as a nation are coming around to the idea that our happiness does not come from having the latest fashions, gadgets or toys. Instead, happiness comes from experiences.

Every fall, our staff is eager to participate in our United Way workplace campaign. We see every day the impact that the United Way has on our community

During our last week of Camp Thompson Resident Camp I asked some of our campers to write letters home and tell their parents about the experiences they have at camp.

Not only are they finding the fun in the work, they are doing the work that matters most. Hard work turns into fun work when what you are doing makes a difference.

Research shows that participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning among children. But in addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, children can increase their physical activity by swimming.

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Solutions to childhood obesity, lack of physical activity and food insecurity require difficult lifestyle changes. Teaching healthy habits is at the heart of how the Y supports the development of over nine million youth annually.

I have found that those that are the most successful in life are not the ones that can separate work and life, but those that can combine their life and their work into their life’s work.

But what I have learned almost three months into this resolution is that silencing my phone and taking time away with the people I love most has recharged me in a way I didn’t realize was possible. And now I see how essential that is for my personal well-being.

Summer camps aren’t one size fits all. When choosing a summer camp for your child, it’s important that you choose the right camp to fit your camper’s needs, interests, goals and energy level.

Don’t allow these extended weekends due to snow days, and long cold nights get the best of you and your family. Stay optimistic and charged with these ideas for your family to stay active and engaged these last couple of cold weeks.

I give to the Carlisle Family YMCA because I’m investing in my community, and providing a brighter future for our children.

As I reflect over the past year and look forward into 2015, I begin to toss around some ideas for a New Year’s resolution or two for the coming year.