At the Y, we are focused on providing a welcoming environment where members can pursue their passion for healthy living. In the case of longtime member Dave Maresca, a part-time job with the Y’s fitness team helped him embark on a career in physical therapy. Dave now works as a physical therapist with the Y’s healthcare partner, Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH), and his commitment to helping members of all ages maintain a healthy and active lifestyle has had a positive impact on our community. Throughout the week, Dave can be found working in EEH’s physical therapy clinic, which is located adjacent to the Y’s fitness center. You can learn more about Dave in the Q&A below.
Q: Did you have any experiences with the Y before joining the C.W. Avery Family YMCA?
Dave: When I was a kid in North Carolina, we belonged to the YMCA but I don’t remember much more than playing some basketball and baseball on occasion. I really didn’t become a consistent member of the Y until starting here in Plainfield in 2006.
Q: Why were you interested in joining the Y?
Dave: I actually worked at the Y when I was in physical therapy school. I was looking for a part-time job and I remember (Executive Director) Lisa Behounek was the fitness director at that time. She hired me and I got to work in the fitness center and do a little personal training.
Q: What has it been like to see YMCA services and facilities evolve?
Dave: When I worked for the Y, the fitness center was much smaller than it is now. It was enough to get by, but in years since, its growth has expanded opportunities and horizons for members. Right now our clinic offices give me a literal window into the fitness center and I’m always impressed with the volume of people that the Y serves. It’s inspiring to see people take the time to pursue a healthy lifestyle and be physically active.
Q: What makes you excited about the partnership between Edward-Elmhurst and the Y?
Dave: We’re working hard to integrate programming and services to improve community health and wellness. Whether it is short seminars on specific topics, or long-term health programs, it’s really important to take a purposeful approach to helping the community.
Q: What do you think sets the Y apart from other health centers?
Dave: The Y is family centered and it gives all ages plenty of ways to stay engaged. There is a family-friendly togetherness that a lot of other places don’t always have.
Q: How has your family stayed engaged with the Y?
Dave: We’ve always enjoyed using facilities like the family pool and my kids play sports at the Y. My son has played in the Y baseball leagues and my daughter is on the JETS Swim team.
Q: What would you say to someone thinking about joining the Y?
Dave: A lot of people start their journey this time of year and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. If you stick with it, it gets easier. You are never the only one going through challenges. The Y is a pillar of the community and is always here to help when needed. Whether it’s in the pool, group fitness classes, or other activities, there are so many options that you can always find something that meets your needs.
Members looking to learn more about EEH’s Physical Therapy Clinic at the C.W. Avery Family YMCA are invited to stop by during open hours. Assessments are available by appointment Monday-Friday. To schedule an appointment for physical therapy at this location, please call (630) 527-3375 or click here.
And, if you are looking to start your Y journey, there is no better time to join than during our January Membership Sale. Join by January 31 and you’ll pay a $0 Joiner’s Fee, a savings of up to $120!
