Staff Spotlight – Candy

“A perfect fit.” That’s how Candy describes her role as host at the Central Spokane YMCA. After retiring from a fast-paced life of working in management, Candy was looking for something to keep her engaged in the community and active. While applying for a job at the Y she mentioned she was a morning person and directors were thrilled, “I don’t think they have a lot of people coming in and saying that they like waking up at 4 in the morning.” That was almost seven years ago, and Candy says she couldn’t think of a better place to be. “I’m a big talker so this is perfect. I love people and interacting with them, making them feel comfortable.”

Candy says she appreciates the community and caring that comes from members, staff, and volunteers throughout her day. The help of her Y family came through at an especially hard time when she lost her husband almost four years ago. “The people here, the connections and their friendships have been invaluable. I would’ve been lost without them.”

Throughout her time at the front desk Candy has seen all kinds of people walk through the doors with all sorts of stories. She enjoys connecting with people and helping to get their day started in a positive way, “sometimes people come in the morning and don’t want to talk to anyone, and that’s fine. But more often than not on their way out they can’t help but be a bit chattier and in better spirits.”

Candy sees herself staying at the host desk for years to come, greeting and engaging the early risers at the Central Y. “The love and caring they show me is unbelievable. I was put here for a reason, it’s a perfect fit.”