I haven't written in a while, and to my readers I apologize. I also feel that I need something to write about that has substance and meaning. HA HA HA. I guess I haven't been reading my own material. Those of you that have known me for a while...out of my 3 readers, know that I work part time for the YMCA in North Attleboro as a Ropes Course Facilitator. I have been doing this job for approximately 14 years. Now, believe me I don't work there for the money, I work there because I believe in what I do there. I am going to try and explain what it is I do there.
Some people may think that I just hang around in the trees and goof around all day. Hontestly that's only about 3/4 of what I do. This program is a program for participants of all ages to learn how to work as members of a successful team. The main purpose is to teach the eight elements that make up team work.
They are Common Goal, Everyone Involved, Positive Environment, Trust, Clear and Defined Roles, Effective Communication, Descisions: Input and Consesus, and Enjoyment! These elements of teamwork support the YMCA's core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility. It really is a cool program. We teach these elements through a series of experiential games and exercises. I love to work out there because even though I have worked out there on the ropes course I still learn something new everyday that I work. I think when I stop learning new things I might stop working out there.
One reason I stay working for the ropes course is due to the awesome people that I get a chance to work with and know as friends as well as co-workers. I am going to try and list some of them and a tidbit about them and that will be most of my blog. This is a tribute to the people that I have met and worked with throught out my time on the ropes course.
First off Mr. Awesome Dave from the Y - Gave me my 1st shot on the ropes course as a facilitator. If you have ever met this man then you know when you meet him he makes you feel like a million bucks...If you haven't met him I suggest you try to.
Big Jim- this guy was a mentor to me and a good role model for anyone to follow who is looking into a career at the YMCA.
Jumping John - This guy has the energy that surpasses that of the Energizer Bunny. Great guy to have out on the ropes course.
Marvelous Melissa - Began the ropes course with me at the same time like most people she moved on to bigger and better things I hope she is doing well out there somewhere.
Paradise Pete - He took over the ropes course after Mr. Awesome Dave I think he took our ropes course to the next level. Thanks Pete. Pete also became a good friend to dress up in drag with on Halloween. Long Story.
Ruth - Great person. Really nice but wasn't ment to be a ropes course staff.
Ben Peirson - Great first name had a lot of good laughs with him. Great staff person. I hope all is going well for him in florida.
Krispy Chris - The best thinker I have ever seen. He can process a a group like no other.
Scott Arnold - One of the funniest guys I have ever met sometimes a bit dangerous but always up for being the ropes course scape goat.
John Murphry - What can I say this guy took me in when I had no home. Can a person be any nicer. I think not. I miss you buddy.
Krazy Chris - aka - Flying Ferdinand - Chris is definitely one of the craziest people I know. But one of the best friends I have ever had he's always there to put a smile on your face if you need one. Good luck with the family buddy.
Just John - One of the most unique guys to ever work out on the ropes course but also one of the most reliable staff members we have ever had. Plus he kinda looked like he could be my brother.
Emily - Threw great parties was a really good person. Eventhough she almost killed me on the ropes course, no hard feelings Emily.
Micheala - Not sure if she really worked on the course or not she would show up once in a while but still a good person.
Magical Mike - Fantastic guy to have around always could make me laugh and a phenomenal ropes course staff person. good luck where ever you are.
High Ropes Hogan- aka Low Ropes Logan - This guy as I have told him is like a brother to me. He picked up ropes faster than anyone besides myself. I know he will do well over in Iraq serving our country. Good luck Brother.
Jaguar John - Very reliable and a fun staff to work with is currently working. One of our longest tendered staff for a while. We couldn't run the course without you.
Nifty Nate - our Low Ropes Guru great job all around Nate Keep it up. We couldn't run the ropes course with out you.
Dazzleing Deidra - She's always up for anything and willing to do it all she had a great rescue today she was Dazzleing. Good job.
And last but not least my partner in crime for all 14 years of my service to the ropes course - Super Sue - Sue and I are like peas and carrots. She taught me how to dangle. We've been through a lot of staff together. And we stick it out together through thick and thin, good times and bad. Your a great friend Sue and you definitely always keep me laughing.
If you are not mentioned I am sorry. I really do have a bad memory. Or maybe you didn't have an impact on me....lol....just kidding. Ropes Course is always an adventure and always fun. Now if you are interested in working for us you will get a cool name. Those who dont' have a cool name above I can't remember their cool name. Contact me if interested it really is an experience that you will not forget.
1 comment:
HUMMMMM........no mention of your dear old Aunt Jeni for whom you would'nt have met all these cool people with the cool names if she didn't drive your ass to camp and home for years. Thats ok though she still loves you.
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