The new executive director for the Saratoga Regional YMCA's Saratoga branch opens up
Aaron Ditch calls for more volunteers and touts the Y's (really) long history in Saratoga Springs.
SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY — Referred to as “the Y” by many locals who love its gym, childcare and swank amenities, Saratoga Regional YMCA (SRYMCA) is also an incredible charitable association focused on strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
And now the Saratoga branch’s new executive director, Aaron Ditch, wants to spread the word even farther. With more than 15 years of experience working at area YMCAs, he’s thrilled to take on this new leadership role in the organization that operates a total of six branches and offers dozens of diverse programs for guests of all ages and from all backgrounds.
Q: How did you first become involved with SRYMCA and how has your role changed over the years?
A: I joined the SRYMCA after serving 10 years with the CDYMCA in various roles and branches. Once I came on board with our SRYMCA, I progressed into the role of Wilton Branch Executive Director. Our Wilton Branch has tennis, gymnastics and a field house within the same building so there was a learning curve initially. It was also unique that the Saratoga Branch is in such close proximity to Wilton, especially given the size of the Saratoga Branch. The two branches complement each other nicely though and we are very lucky to have such amazing amenities that fit within a short distance. Recently taking over as Saratoga Branch Executive after 6 years at Wilton, it has been nice to see familiar faces from our Wilton Branch early on.
Q: What do you enjoy most about being part of the SRYMCA team?
A: Honestly, it is such an amazing, supportive and friendly culture to be a part of. Members often say, the Y is their home away from home and it is no different as a staff. We are surrounded by amazing people all day long and everyone who walks through our doors are looking to better themselves through spirit, mind and body. Also, who can say they have the ability to walk down the hall and run on a treadmill, swim in a pool, enjoy a steam room or relax on a hydro massage chair throughout the day?
Q: What’s something most people don’t know about SRYMCA?
A: We provide scholarship assistance for membership, programs, childcare and summer camp. I am also proud to share that our YMCA was originally founded in 1866. Though it experienced a brief hiatus, it has continued to evolve in positive ways ever since.
Q: What is your vision for the future of the Saratoga Springs branch?
A: To continually provide quality service to our community for those who seek a healthy lifestyle as individuals and families. I would also like to continually grow our partnerships and increase our reach into the community, fostering relationships with other non-profit organizations to strengthen collaborative support.
Q: How can the community be involved in supporting SRYMCA’s mission?
A: Our community can help by volunteering in our many program opportunities, fundraising efforts and by donating to our Annual Campaign, which funds financial assistance for membership, childcare, summer camp, programs and evidence-based health interventions (cancer survivorship, Parkinson’s programming).
More information about the SRYMCA is available at srymca.org.
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