A Place to Grow and Thrive

With over 50 years of combined membership, Shelly and Roshawn have transformed their own lives and inspired everyone around them. Their connection began just 2 years ago in a group exercise class, where Shelly’s passion for fitness met Roshawn’s determination to improve her life. Roshawn’s early struggles with reading were a significant hurdle.

“As a kid, when teachers tried to teach me and I couldn’t get it, I would start crying and throwing a fit,” she recalls. “So instead of helping me, they put me in the ‘special’ class.”

These “special” classes, though intended to provide support, did not offer the foundational skills Roshawn needed. “They only taught me life skills—how to cook, clean, and stuff—not really math or reading,” she explains. Yet, Roshawn’s love for cooking has always shone brightly. Shelly enthusiastically shares, “She makes amazing chocolate chip cookies!”

Not only does Roshawn delight in baking treats, but she also takes joy in preparing dinners for fellow YMCA members, spreading warmth and deliciousness throughout the community.

Recognizing Potential

Recognizing Roshawn’s potential, Shelly, who has 17 years of tutoring experience, offered her support in teaching Roshawn to read and write. In just 10-months, Roshawn has made substantial progress. Recently cleared to take speech pathology classes, she is a testament to the power of perseverance and community support.

“When people see me working on my reading and hear me trying to pronounce words, they come up to me and say, ‘You’re doing a good job, and they’re proud of me,’” Roshawn says, her pride evident.

Embracing Community

Roshawn has fully embraced the community spirit of the YMCA. She is affectionately known as a “Y ambassador,” by her fellow Downtown members, and Shelly notes, “We can be sitting by the window, and almost everyone waves at her.” This deep sense of belonging not only enriches Roshawn’s experience but also fuels her motivation.

For Shelly, the YMCA has been a cornerstone of her fitness journey. Having lost an impressive 80 pounds and finding joy in cycling classes, Shelly’s story reflects the supportive community that the YMCA fosters. “It’s so much fun, and I love coming to classes most days,” she says. The encouragement from her instructor, Ray, who always says, “See you tomorrow,” has been a key factor in her ongoing motivation.

A Place to Grow and Thrive

The bond between Shelly and Roshawn perfectly exemplifies the essence of the YMCA—a place where relationships thrive, support is abundant, and personal journeys are celebrated. They both value the quiet areas provided for learning and growth, where Roshawn can focus on her skills while being surrounded by a community that champions her successes.

As Shelly and Roshawn continue their journeys, they inspire us all to embrace the power of friendship, perseverance, and community. Their stories remind us that the Amon G. Carter, Jr. Downtown YMCA is more than just a facility; it’s a nurturing environment where lives are transformed, one class, one lesson, and one cookie at a time.

Join us at the YMCA, where together, we can uplift one another and create a community that thrives on support, love, and endless possibilities.