HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — A new era has begun at the Heart of the Valley YMCA.
In this week’s next question, we are sitting down with the new president and chief, who has big plans to deepen partnerships and reimagine what the YMCA means for every generation
“I never really had an opportunity as a child to experience the YMCA,” Heart of the Valley YMCA President and CEO Rob Gray said. “I didn’t want a child not to experience YMCA.”
Rob Gray grew up in a tough part of town in Louisville, and he understands the transformative role this non-profit can play in a child’s life. Gray’s career spans nearly 40 years serving the YMCA in seven states and this is his second time in Alabama. He was recently tapped to take over the top role at the Heart of the Valley YMCA. A role that comes with some challenges
“I think the challenge is building community trust,” Gray said. “When you come out of a pandemic and you have financial challenges and you have bankruptcy, that has negative connotations.”
Since its successful exit from bankruptcy, the YMCA is looking to the future. This includes growing its membership, adding more service programs and investing in both its staff and facilities. Along with helping families who are facing a tough time.
“One of the programs I’m most proud of that we offer is our financial assistance program,” Gray said. “No matter where you come from financially, if you have money to pay for your membership, that’s great. If you don’t, we have a place for you and we will meet you where you are through a process that we have. And we’re so happy to be able to do that through our donors in this community.”
Next question. What are your top three priorities in your first 100 days?
“Our new downtown YMCA will be opening November at the Times Building,“ Gray said. “We’re really excited about that. And then secondly, our family pathways program and I’ve had a number of conversations with community businesses that are interested in addressing the childcare provider crisis in this community because a lot of people have been sidelined, that want to work that don’t have affordable, quality childcare.”
When he’s not at the YMCA you can catch this CEO in the garden or looking for a good lobster, which is a nod to his time in Maine, but coming to a new cit,y there’s a pressing question that has to be answered. Which college team do you cheer for on Saturdays, the Tide or the Tigers?
You know what my answer is? I had a son born in Tuscaloosa. So, you’re going to leave it at that? I’m going to leave right there.
Gray said that their family pathways program will be available early next year.
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