I’m not sure my fifth-grade math teacher, Mrs. B, was as interested in helping me achieve as she was in teaching me responsibility. The ONE time I forgot my homework, I not only got a zero, but I also had to write 100 times, “I will not forget my homework.” I must admit that it worked — I never forgot my homework again. Looking back, it wasn’t just about academics but about developing habits that set the stage for future achievement.
When I think about the word achieve, my mind often jumps to academics, as it probably does for many of us. It’s a narrow view that doesn’t capture the broader spectrum of what achievement can mean. Achievement isn’t confined to grades or tests — it’s about progress, growth and reaching milestones that matter to each of us personally.
At our Y, we’re embracing this broader perspective in 2025. In Q1, our focus is on helping each other, our members and our program participants achieve their goals. For kids in after-school programs, those goals might involve improving reading skills or building confidence in math. For members, achievement might mean getting healthier, improving mobility or managing a chronic condition like diabetes. For others, it could be about creating meaningful connections or finding ways to improve mental well-being.
Regardless of the goal, we know that achievement rarely happens in isolation. It’s easier to succeed when you have people standing beside you — offering support, guidance and accountability. That’s where we come in. The Y’s mission calls us to strengthen spirit, mind and body, and part of that is being a source of encouragement for one another. Whether you’re staff, volunteers or members, we can help foster an environment where progress is celebrated and growth is achievable.
Personally, I’ve set a simple but challenging goal for January: cutting out sweets. It’s not easy for someone who loves a good dessert. Thankfully, my wife has joined me in this effort. If she were munching on peanut M&M’s next to me on the couch, I’d be toast! Her support makes a difference, just as your support can make a difference for someone else.
Achievement isn’t just about big wins; it’s about small victories and incremental progress. Maybe it’s the child who reads an entire book on their own for the first time or the member who discovers they can jog for five minutes longer than they could last month. These moments matter. They build confidence, momentum and a sense of possibility.
As we move forward into 2025, I encourage you to set goals for yourself, no matter how big or small, and to take an active role in supporting the goals of those around you. Together, we can create a ripple effect of growth and achievement, helping people thrive in both big and small ways.
Let’s make this a year of progress, encouragement and success — together.
