In The Last Word, we sit down with an industry expert to share their wealth of knowledge. In the 2024 May/June issue, the conversation features Kristin McEwen, the chief experience officer at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta.
1. How did you get started in the community recreation industry?
KM: My journey began with a deep-rooted passion for health and wellness at an early age. This passion led me to volunteer as a teen where I quickly realized the positive impact I could have on my community. I went on to graduate with the first degree from my college in Sports and Fitness Management. I became a wellness director to continue impacting the community. Throughout my career, my focus has always been on serving health seekers and ensuring community health and wellness — along with the member experience — remain at the forefront of all I do.
2. What’s been a key to your team’s success? What are you most proud of?
KM: The key to my team’s success at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta has been our unwavering commitment to service and our strong bond — much like a family. I’m extremely proud to see the personal and professional growth of our team members. Supporting their goals and helping them reach their potential, whether it’s through developing new skills or advancing into new roles, has been incredibly fulfilling.
3. What has been one of the biggest accomplishments of your career?
KM: One of the biggest accomplishments of my career has been the significant impact we’ve made in the lives of countless individuals and communities. Through various initiatives and programs, intentional partnerships and investment in facilities, we’ve managed to bring about tangible, positive changes. This has not only been a personal achievement but also a testament to the collective effort and dedication of our team.
4. What has been one of the biggest challenges you have faced in your career?
KM: One of the biggest challenges was during the COVID-19 pandemic. I had just been promoted and within my first 30 days I closed all our Ys for the first time in our 170-plus year history. The uncertainty was monumental, but in the end, it was a gift. We had to quickly set up critical programming, reach isolated seniors, provide hunger relief and keep our members connected. This involved rapidly producing virtual content and opportunities, retrofitting all facilities, and developing new policies and procedures to ensure the health and safety of our members, staff and the community. It was a challenging time but today we’re truly a stronger and more relevant organization.
5. What is one lesson you have learned that other community recreation professionals can learn from?
KM: Keep it fun, enjoy, laugh, and embrace the good and the bad. Perspective is everything. No matter the challenges or the seriousness of our goals, maintaining an element of enjoyment and engagement to ensure a positive experience is crucial. It’s rewarding for our members but also invigorates our team and keeps us passionate about our work.
6. Tell us one fact about yourself others may not know.
KM: In my life I’ve had experiences that seem coincidental, lucky or just great timing and often they hit right when needed most. I call those my “God winks.” I’ve experienced these moments so frequently in critical times of my life, they’ve become a cornerstones of my belief system. I love to share these moments with others so they also can appreciate their God winks.
