In his youth, David Brown spent his time learning how to swim at his local YMCA. As a teenager, David started working at the YMCA as a janitor and health club attendant, scrubbing down the showers, cleaning equipment, etc. thanks to a connection from his neighbor, a YMCA CEO.
After graduating from Roberts Wesleyan University in Rochester, he began looking for a job. His childhood neighbor referred him to a YMCA in Rochester that had an opening for a Youth Director, a position he immediately fell in love with.
He enjoyed working at the YMCA for the camaraderie he found working in after-school programs, summer camps, and other YMCA experiences. These activities were rewarding, and he soon realized the fun wasn't the only purpose of the organization. David explains that the Y is for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through numerous programs aimed to strengthen the community from all perspectives, whether it be by offering childcare services, leadership development programs, or other community-based services for the Capital Region.
David's work in the community shows the YMCA is an essential organization for the well-being of locals. Since becoming CEO, David has helped set up housing for 165 men and 65 Senior citizens in Schenectady. The Capital District YMCA assists with include food insecurity; diversity, equity, and inclusion; helping new immigrants assimilate by giving them supplies and resources to help ease their transition. For David, it is extremely rewarding to see the difference they make, especially considering the YMCA is largely volunteer based.
During the pandemic, it became apparent how necessary the YMCA is to the Capital Region because of the emergency demand for basic needs (like food and childcare) the YMCA fulfilled. David delves into how his organization had to pivot quickly and respond "to the needs that are critical to people today"-- words he continues to live by. He explains how for-profit companies might cater to what their stakeholders prefer, but for the YMCA, the stakeholders are the community.
Still a youth director at heart, David has been humbled to see what an impact the YMCA has had on upcoming generations. He foresees that in 10 years' time, the YMCA will continue to respond to the needs of the community, just on a larger scale, expanding the YMCA's footprint in the Capital Region.
David Brown is a CEO You Should Know!