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In a world that often feels increasingly disconnected and divided, the YMCA of Greater Cincinnati is leaning into one of the most powerful human needs: belonging. As we build on the themes of the Our Health, Our Opportunity report – including the importance of access to the vital conditions for health and well-being and how racism and discrimination impact health – we’re focusing now on social connection as a measure of health. During a recent conversation, Kate Hanisian and Cody Saraco-Polner of the Cincinnati YMCA shared how the YMCA is redefining health—not just through fitness, but through relationships, community, and connection.
Communities thrive and people are healthier when we make room for all of us to fully belong. When we belong, we are deeply connected to others and the places around us. We feel safe, supported, and seen—a stable foundation on which to build good overall health. However, a lack of social connection and isolation takes a toll on physical and mental health, limiting our community’s full potential for good health and well-being.
When it comes to the connection between health and a sense of belonging, Hanisian says, “we have to look at the whole self in order to understand health.” At the Y, you won’t be judged based on what you wear to work out, whether you are a new member or have been a member all your life. Hanisian says they strive to create an environment at the Y to meet people “from wherever they are in their health journey” for their physical, emotional, and mental health.
This approach to belonging is both intentional and data-driven. By collecting data, the Y is learning from people who walk through their doors about their sense of achievement, relationships, and belonging during their time at the YMCA. Cody Saraco-Polner walked us through their dashboard, which can help tell the “true story” of how people are experiencing belonging at the Y, he said.
This data is valuable not just for their programs, but for our entire community. With 10 branches, four childcare locations, and a music resource center, the Y serves a population that is representative of our region, so the findings give us a glimpse into our community’s sense of connectedness and belonging.
The YMCA is collecting powerful data on the connection and belonging experienced by its members. Provided.
One of the most striking insights from the data is that people living in poverty and people of color report higher levels of belonging at the Y than expected. This challenges assumptions and validates the YMCA’s efforts to create inclusive, welcoming spaces.
In today’s polarized climate, the YMCA’s work is more vital than ever. “Belonging across difference,” Kate said, “feels more important than anything we could do.” Whether it’s seniors working out, neighbors sharing a lap lane, or teens finding joy at the Music Resource Center, the Y is a place where people show up as they are—and are celebrated for it.
The team at the Y offered some practical advice for communities hoping to foster connection:
You can learn more about the Y and its mission, find volunteer opportunities, and more at myy.org.
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