Every day I interact with hundreds of members, staff, and visitors who come through our doors at the Hale Family YMCA. I love hearing the updates from all of the colorful lives that make our Y so special. One person who I’ve grown close to is Chris Barrow.
Chris is a 34 years old Project Finance Associate. He is a kind, social, and genuine person. In 2008, Chris was involved in a car accident that left him with a spinal cord injury. Being faced with the difficulties of his injury at such a young age, Chris was in need of a place not only to help with new physical health challenges and mental battles that lay ahead.
Chris received physical therapy from our partners at Spaulding Rehabilitation in Boston. His physical therapist recommended staying active to continue his recovery post-physical therapy, so Chris joined the Hale Family YMCA branch and our Partnership Program. The Partnership Program is an adaptive, recreational, non-clinical fitness program designed for people with physical disabilities to more fully enjoy all that the Y has to offer. The program pairs individuals with physical disabilities with trainers, volunteers and one-to-one assistance to help them fully enjoy the South Shore YMCA. Thanks to the generosity of our community through the South Shore YMCA Annual Fund, we offer this life changing program at no additional cost.
Chris has seen major improvements with his strength and mental wellbeing since joining our Y. “Being in my position and having the Y be so open and welcoming has been amazing,” said Chris. “The sense of community here is huge and this place has been instrumental in my physical and mental health. I have made lots of great connections both with members and the staff.”
Chris is a special member of our Y community, and has become a great friend. You’ll see him a few days a week volunteering at our Welcome Center or working out on our fitness floor, growing stronger every day.
