Brian Poynter is one of the new members of the Advisory Board of the Downtown Nashville YMCA. He took a few minutes to answer questions about his Y journey.
Q: When did you join the YMCA?
A: I don't remember exactly, but I believe it was 1987. It is safe to say it was over 30 years ago when I joined the Downtown Y.
Q: What has kept you here for so long?
A: The culture of the Y and the community are what is most important to me. It’s not just a gym. Most of my close friendships have been formed at the Y.
Q: Why did you decide to serve on the Advisory Board of the Downtown Y?
A: I decided that I wanted more involvement in the mission and ministry of the Y. I had primarily been coming for wellness and swimming for so many years, but I was unaware of the many programs and offerings available for the community. I wanted to play a bigger role in that.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish by serving on the Advisory Board?
A: With so many changes to the “neighborhood” and demographics of our members, it is an exciting time to be a part of the future of the Downtown Y. I hope to help create an atmosphere of physical and mental wellness while continuing to strengthen community.
Q: Anything else you would like to share about the Downtown Y?
A: The Downtown Y is unique in that it is a melting pot of people and an equalizer of sorts. We have such a diverse membership, and the Downtown Y creates an oasis in a world where people are torn apart.