At the heart of every thriving community is a family that embodies the spirit of togetherness, health, and connection. This month, we’re excited to introduce you to the Buckley family — longtime members of the C.M.
Gatton Beaumont YMCA — who have made the YMCA a cornerstone of their daily lives. From swim lessons to family fitness classes and childcare, the Buckleys are a perfect example of how a YMCA family membership can positively impact health, wellness, and community belonging.
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The Buckleys: A Family That Moves Together, Grows Together
The Buckleys joined the YMCA in 2015 after relocating to Lexington, Kentucky, from North Carolina. At that time, they were a family of four, searching for a place that could offer a welcoming environment, quality fitness programs for their children, and support for the whole family. They found exactly that and more at the Beaumont YMCA.
What started as a simple membership quickly grew into a lifestyle. Today, the Buckley family includes five children who participate regularly in a variety of YMCA programs, including swimming lessons, youth fitness, preschool movement classes, and family-friendly special events like fall festivals and swim with Santa.
Alie and Andy Buckley, the proud parents, credit the YMCA not only with keeping their family physically active but also for being a vital support system — one that has helped them navigate the challenges of parenthood and busy family life.
YMCA Family Membership: More Than Just a Gym
One of the standout benefits of the Buckleys’ YMCA household membership has been access to Kids Corner, the YMCA’s childcare program. This service offers up to two hours of free childcare per day while parents participate in activities or workouts. For the Buckleys, Kids Corner has been indispensable — allowing Alie and Andy to focus on their own wellness or complete errands knowing their kids are in a safe, engaging environment.
Alie reflects, “It’s not an exaggeration to say that Donna Jo and the Kids Corner staff have helped raise our children. They’ve supported us through joyful milestones and even the tougher times. We consider them family.”
The YMCA’s flexible childcare option has been especially helpful as the family has grown from two children to five. The Buckleys often plan their schedules around Kids Corner hours, ensuring everyone in the family stays active and connected to the Y community.
Making Memories Through YMCA Programs and Events
The Buckleys’ YMCA experience goes beyond fitness. Their children have hit important milestones tied to YMCA programs. For example, their oldest two daughters celebrated their 10th birthdays at the YMCA, marking the special moment when they were allowed to walk the track unsupervised — a rite of passage for many young Y members.
Two of their younger children were motivated to potty train so they could “move up” to the “big room” in Kids Corner, showing just how much the YMCA feels like a second home.
Participating in family fitness programs and community events has brought the Buckleys closer together. From group exercise classes like Pilates Reformer and youth triathlons to seasonal fun like swim with Santa, their calendar is always full — helping to build a strong family bond and a healthy lifestyle.
A Place of Support and Growth for Mom and Dad
For Alie, the YMCA has been a sanctuary during her intense journey of earning a PhD at the University of Kentucky. She shares, “I spent countless hours in the Beaumont Y lobby working on coursework, grading, and writing my dissertation. It’s not an exaggeration to say I wouldn’t have completed my degree without the YMCA, and I even included it in my acknowledgments.”
The Y has also been a place where she could prioritize her physical and mental health, something many parents struggle to find time for. Meanwhile, Andy uses the YMCA as a place to recharge after long workdays — an essential role in maintaining his ability to care for their growing family.
Their combined YMCA involvement is a testament to how the YMCA’s supportive environment fosters not just physical fitness, but emotional wellbeing and community connection.
Overcoming Challenges with YMCA Support
Parenting is not without its challenges. After the birth of their third child, Alie struggled with postpartum anxiety, a difficult period for many families. During this time, Andy became the primary caretaker, and the YMCA provided a reliable space for both parents to find respite and support.
Alie says, “The YMCA remained a constant source of comfort and community during that time. The kindness and support we’ve received from staff and fellow members have meant everything to us.”
This kind of community support is what makes the YMCA more than just a fitness center — it’s a place where families can find belonging and encouragement through every stage of life.
The YMCA’s Core Values: Why the Buckleys Stay
Since joining in 2015, the Buckleys have witnessed changes at their local YMCA but appreciate the balance between strong core values and an openness to evolve. “So much has stayed the same — the welcoming atmosphere, the commitment to health and wellness, the sense of community — but the Y is also willing to change to meet members’ needs,” Alie explains.
This combination keeps the YMCA relevant and impactful for families like the Buckleys, making it a place where they plan to remain for years to come.
Why YMCA Memberships Are Ideal for Growing Families
The Buckleys’ story highlights why many families find value in a YMCA family membership:
- Access to childcare programs like Kids Corner gives parents flexibility to focus on their own health and responsibilities.
- Wide range of youth and family programs encourage children to develop healthy habits early and enjoy social connections.
- Community events and family-friendly activities build lasting memories and a sense of belonging.
- Supportive environment for parents balancing work, education, and family life.
- Opportunities for parents to prioritize physical and mental health in a welcoming setting.
For families relocating to a new city or seeking a community to call home, the YMCA offers much more than a gym — it provides a foundation of support, encouragement, and connection.
Join the YMCA Community Today
If the Buckleys’ story resonates with you, consider joining your local YMCA. Whether you’re looking for childcare options, engaging youth fitness programs, or a supportive place to improve your own health, the YMCA offers a membership that fits your family’s needs.
Explore your YMCA’s website or visit the facility to learn more about family memberships, program offerings, and upcoming events.
About the C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA
Located in Lexington, Kentucky, the C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA is a vibrant hub for families and individuals of all ages. With comprehensive programming ranging from swimming lessons and youth sports to group fitness and wellness support, the Beaumont YMCA focuses on promoting healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility.
In Their Own Words: The Buckleys Share Their YMCA Experience
To hear directly from the Buckley family about how the YMCA has impacted their lives, check out this month’s Member Spotlight video. Their heartfelt story offers inspiration and a glimpse into the strong community ties that make the YMCA so special.
Frequently Asked Question
Who are the Buckleys featured in the YMCA Member Spotlight?
The Buckleys are a Lexington-based family of seven who have been active members of the C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA since 2015. Their story highlights the impact of YMCA family programs, childcare services, and the community connection they’ve built over the years.
What YMCA programs do the Buckleys participate in?
The Buckley family takes full advantage of their YMCA household membership by participating in swimming lessons, preschool movement classes, fall festivals, Pilates Reformer, group exercise, the White, Greer & Maggard Kids Tri at the Y, Parents’ Night Out, and more.
How has the YMCA’s childcare program helped the Buckley family?
Kids Corner, which offers up to two free hours of childcare daily, has been a cornerstone of the Buckleys’ YMCA experience. It’s allowed Alie and Andy to focus on personal wellness, work, and academic goals, while their children enjoy safe and enriching care.
Why do the Buckleys value their YMCA membership so much?
The Buckleys say the people are what keep them coming back. They feel welcomed, supported, and connected — whether celebrating family milestones or facing challenges like postpartum anxiety. The YMCA has become part of their daily routine and emotional support system.
How has the YMCA supported Alie Buckley’s educational journey?
While working on her PhD at the University of Kentucky, Alie spent countless hours at the YMCA completing coursework and writing her dissertation. She credits the Y with helping her succeed and even acknowledged it in her doctoral thesis.
What advice do the Buckleys have for new YMCA families?
The Buckleys encourage families to fully engage in what the YMCA offers — from programs and classes to community events. They believe it’s more than a gym; it’s a space where families can grow, connect, and thrive together.
Where can I watch the Buckleys’ Member Spotlight video?
You can watch the Buckleys share their story in their own words through the Member Spotlight video available on the C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA’s website or social media channels.
Conclusion
The Buckleys exemplify the positive impact that a YMCA family membership can have on health, wellness, and community connection. Their journey from newcomers to Lexington to a family deeply rooted in the YMCA community showcases the power of support, quality programs, and genuine relationships. As the Buckleys continue to grow and evolve, one thing remains certain: the YMCA will remain an essential part of their family’s life — a place where they are always welcome, supported, and empowered.
