If theres such a thing as a YMCA gene, it would be a part of Bonnie LaVielles DNA. The Executive Director of the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA, formerly known as the Rockwall Family YMCA, comes from a family of five sisters, all of whom work with the organization in the Dallas area. “Over the years, the Y has become part of our family.” After 23 years of work with the YMCA, Bonnie decided to join the Rockwall group when the top spot became available.
“I didnt give it much thought at first,” Bonnie said, “I was working in the Fort Worth office when I heard of the opening. I knew it was a rare opportunity, as few people ever left Rockwall, but it took some convincing by two of my sisters who had had some association with the facility over the years. After much prayer and soul searching, I finally decided to put my name into the hat.” She got the job, and immediately had to hit the ground running.
Just a week into her new position, a check arrived for $2.5 million made out to the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. The gift, a donation from local philanthropist J.E.R. Chilton, was earmarked for the Rockwall clubs capital improvement program. Mr. Chilton, a longtime member and supporter of the organization, said at the presentation, “I’m investing in the future when I invest in the Y — I’m investing in tomorrow’s leaders of the communities that so desperately need leadership today.” In honor of his generosity, the Board of Directors of the club voted to change the name of the facility to the J.E.R. Chilton YMCA.
A facelift is planned for the roof of the aquatic center
Excited to be at the reins at such a crucial juncture in the clubs history, Bonnie will oversee the use of the funds to improve and expand the services the club offers. , Wellness & Membership Director Liz Jones is looking at bringing in new programs to positively impact young peoples lives, and to serve the areas growing senior population. Said Liz, “A lot of our workout equipment has been here since I started, and some for 17 years, but we just recently got a full new line of Cybex pin loaded equipment. Our members will be really happy to see some of the upgrades we have planned.”
Aside from implementing the capital improvements at the club, one of Bonnies first priorities is to come into the Rockwall organization with “fresh eyes”. Being new to the community she hopes to see past some of the legacy programs, and spend time asking the members what they want. “What do we need to do that were not doing currently? What are we doing right that we need to be doing more of? What are we offering that they dont want any more? In short, are we being relevant in our community?”
Big plans ahead for the coming year
The Rockwall club is unique in the organization in its level of involvement in the community. “We have over 3,000 members,” said Ms. Jones, “And when you give directions which say Its near the Y, everybody knows right where that is. Unique also is the fact that the Y is more than just a gym. Our wellness and sports programs, as well as our classes for kids all aim for the betterment of the whole person, mind, spirit and body. Dont get me wrong, I love muscles, but theres a lot more to life than being able to bench press 400 pounds.”
Liz Jones demonstrates the MobileFit terminal at the entrance to the gym. Members can track their fitness and nutrition goals through this program.
Bonnie and her husband hope to move to Rockwall in the near future. “Weve always liked it here, and now that Ill be spending so much time getting involved in the community, it may be time. Its going to be a great year. There will be some inconvenience suffered during the renovations, but the results will be well worth it. Its an exciting time to be part of the Y!”
by Bob Lewis ~ Planet Rockwall
