CONGRATULATIONS TO

2017 JOHN KJELSON MEMORIAL SERVICE AWARD RECIPIENT 

Joy Casey-Shimoyama

Joy Casey-Shimoyama's history with the Y begins back in the 1980's when she first took a Fitness Instructor Training Course and completed her certifications. Fast forward to 2010, and, looking for somewhere to go with her then 3 year-old son, Joy found out about the Interactive Centre at the "Aberdeen Y" from a friend. She started visiting the centre, and heard that we offer  Playcare at our Fitness facilities, which meant that she could take her son to Playcare and she could go do a workout. Her son had other ideas, though, and Joy ended up volunteering at our Northshore Y Playcare centre as a way to ease her son into a supportive, fun environment. Gradually she was able to sneak away for short periods and get some time for herself. 

At the urging of the Playcare staff, Joy applied to join the staff team when there was a vacant position, and shortly after was promoted to Playcare Supervisor when that position became available. She now supervises Playcare at both Kamloops Y sites, and is always going above and beyond to ensure all children are given the extra care, encouragement and support they need to have an enjoyable Playcare experience.

During this time period, Joy was working out more, and found she was spending a lot of time at the Y. She decided to get re-certify her Fitness Certifications, and is now a certified Weight Trainer, Personal Trainer, and Group Fitness Instructor. She is currently working on adding Yoga Certification to the list. She volunteers to teach at least one class every week, and subs for other instructors when needed, and cheerfully gives many prospective and new members tours and equipment orientations. This spring, Joy will also start teaching the fitness component of our MEND program as well. 

Joy also volunteers every year for our Y Strong Kids Campaign, and has been a big part in its continued success. She is on the events organizing committee, coaches a challenge team, and has been a campaigner in the past. She also offers a by-donation Gym and Craft class, with all the proceeds going to the Y Strong Kids Campaign.

Joy can often be found at either site, giving members tours, helping at the front desk, or cleaning (and man, can she clean!). She is always smiling and welcoming to everyone she meets, and she frequently goes out of her way to help others and brighten their day.

When asked why she does all she does for the Y, she says, "If I can make someone else's job easier, I will. It makes me happy when I see someone else smile and that I can make a difference in their life. I am just really glad to be a part of the Y Family."

We are so fortunate to have you, Joy. Thank you for all that you do every single day to make our Y the best it can be.