Bringing The Community To The YMCA
Photo/Edd Cote
Kathryn Zingg Hunter
Title: President & CEO
Company: YMCA of Central Massachusetts
Location: Worcester
Kathryn Zingg Hunter started her career with the local YMCA as associate executive director at the Central Community Branch in Worcester. She steadily climbed the ladder within the nonprofit organization to become president and CEO in 2004. She helped lead the Y’s most ambitious capital improvement project to raise $15 million to renovate the Y’s Greendale and Central branches as well as expansion in Westborough.
Who is your most influential role model, and why?
I have been very fortunate to have had many role models throughout my life. My parents motivated, encouraged and guided me. They worked hard, raised three children and instilled in us a strong work ethic and the value of family. In addition, I have been blessed throughout my career with the opportunity to work with and for some wonderful leaders. The two whom I believe influenced me most are Neil Nicoll and Evan Page. While they had different management styles, I learned a great deal from both. They each share a passion for making a difference in the lives of all people — locally, nationally and around the globe — and they continue to inspire me in my work and personal life today.
Why are you good at what you do?
There are two main reasons why I believe I have been successful professionally. The first is because I love my life’s work, and I pour all of my energy and passion into what I do. The second reason is because I don’t do it alone. We are so fortunate at the YMCA to have an amazing volunteer board of directors and a creative and committed staff who share a common vision and work together as a team to set and reach our strategic goals.
How does your organization give back to the community, and what role have you played in those efforts?
Our YMCA mission is to build a stronger community by improving the lives of individuals and families in spirit, mind and body. We try to stay flexible and adapt to and meet changing needs. For example, our YMCA provides early education and care to support working families; we encourage healthy lifestyles in an effort to address the growing health care crisis; and we provide a safe place for teens and children during the critical “out-of-school” hours. Most importantly, the YMCA strives to never turn anyone away because of their financial circumstances. My role in these efforts is to motivate and lead our staff, work with and engage our volunteers, and build partnerships throughout the community.
When the stress level gets too high, what’s your secret remedy?
No surprise here, coming from the YMCA, I try to get outside and exercise. A run or bike ride always makes me feel energized and refreshed, and some of my most creative solutions and ideas have come while I’m exercising, spending time reflecting and enjoying the outdoors.
How have you tried to balance your career and your personal life?
Finding that perfect balance between work and family can be a challenge. Since the YMCA is so family oriented, my family has been involved in the YMCA probably as long as I have, participating in child care, summer camps, fitness activities and more. They are very supportive and understanding of my career, so when we are together, I try to make it meaningful, fun and special. Also, lifelong-learning is important to me, so I participate in trainings, seminars and retreats with colleagues to keep abreast of new ideas and opportunities.
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