Barnes YMCA Open for Seven New Advisory Council Members

The Benjamin Barnes YMCA has served the Tuscaloosa community for numerous decades, providing a safe haven for area children, after school programs, activities for seniors, fitness equipment, and more.

However, it has faced a number of challenges over the past few years. Lack of community financial support and aging facilities make it a bit more difficult for the YMCA to stay afloat.

Recently, volunteerism has recently surged at the Barnes YMCA, and community involvement appears to be on the upswing.

Yet, it has not gone unnoticed that the Barnes YMCA, which is governed by the same board as the YMCA downtown, has seemingly been neglected by the parent organization. Many community activists have called attention to the concerns of those most affected by the lack of empathy from governing bodies and those who would be expected to care.

Those who would like to assist and continue in pushing for the advancement of the Barnes YMCA are encouraged to apply for one of seven positions on the Benjamin Barnes YMCA Advisory Council.

An email states:

The Advisory Council is essential in providing oversight, ensuring resources and supporting the organization’s strategic direction as set forth by the Tuscaloosa YMCA Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer. As a council member, you will articulate, safeguard, model and promote the values of the YMCA and ultimately contribute to strengthening the foundations of our community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Council members lay the foundation for strong advisory level volunteers and philanthropic support of the organization.
Council members shall be respected citizens of the community with an interest and commitment to the Mission and Programs of the Y. Council members will also be community-minded individuals with a demonstrated interest in the YMCA, who bring specific skills, resources or relationships to the benefit of the Barnes Branch through council participation. Council members must be community advocates for the YMCA programs and services.

Those interested are encouraged to forward a cover letter and resume to tanikaminorrice@gmail.com by Friday, August 14.