Susan McDonough’s Y Story
Susan McDonough had never fully taken stock of the many YMCA experiences that shaped her life and the lives of her family. As she reflected, she realized the Y had been woven into her family’s story for four generations. Her family’s connection began during the Depression era, when an immigrant farmhand—Susan’s grandfather—was raising five sons with little besides hard work, school, and more hard work. For Susan’s father and uncles, the local YMCA offered a rare escape from dark and difficult times. It was the only free place they could go to shoot hoops, play, and breathe.
Years later came the next generation—Susan herself. At a time when organized sports for girls were scarce, her mother believed her “plump, moody daughter” needed somewhere to land. So seven-year-old Susan joined the small girls’ swim team at her local Y. She cried through many early practices, but by age 12 or 13, she had clocked a qualifying time for what became the very first National YMCA Women’s Swim Meet in Indianapolis. In 1967, she scarcely understood what an extraordinary opportunity it was.
Over the decades, no matter where life took her, the YMCA remained a landing place. She went to the Y to exercise, earn a bit of income, and find connection. During college, she returned to her home Y to serve as an assistant swim coach. She trained with friends for YMCA Masters meets. Later, as a parent, she ensured her own children grew up with a family membership. It kept her engaged in the community and introduced her kids to sports and youth programs. Together, they volunteered at pancake breakfasts, phonathons, and Christmas tree sales. History repeated itself when her daughter excelled in swimming and attended YMCA Nationals many times. Few events, Susan recalled, were as exhilarating as Y Nationals at the Swimming Hall of Fame in Florida—hundreds of young athletes gathering from across the country to test their mettle.
Her roles at the Y grew over time: Swim Team Parent Chair, certified Y Swim Official, soccer team mom—where bagels and juice boxes were a critical responsibility. She was invited to join the Aquatics Committee, the Family Center Council, and various planning and communications task forces. Her greatest honor came when she was asked to serve on the Board of Directors, later stepping in briefly as Board Chair.
Through a chaotic divorce, raising three children, managing a full-time job, navigating a cancer diagnosis, moving bravely to New Hampshire, temporary jobs, long stretches of caregiving, and seasons of personal renewal, the Y remained her safe, welcoming space. It supported her physical, emotional, and social needs. In recent years, programs such as Live Strong, committee involvement, yoga, healthy living classes, Silver Sneakers, personal training, and the senior Woods Walks have lifted her up precisely when she needed it.
And the story continued. After college, her son was searching for work, and she suggested he check the Y for job openings. He was hired at Camp Sargent and later at the Early Education Center (EEC) in daycare, early education, and wrap-around programs. A single mom whose children attended the center eventually became his partner. Susan later learned that this woman’s father, after becoming disabled and wheelchair-bound, had also found support for his health and wellness at a local Y. The family story came full circle when her son and his partner were married just last month. Four generations, all in some way shaped by the Y.
Susan shared her experiences not for praise, but to show the many ways people can find their path to the YMCA. To answer the question “What’s my Y?” she offered this: The Y is a place of community and connection where everyone is met exactly where they are—welcomed, supported, validated—and where diverse programs meet the needs of the broader community. That is her Y.
Since joining the Greater Nashua YMCA, she has been deeply impressed by the willingness of staff and volunteers to continually explore new opportunities and programming. There is an openness to partnership, a commitment to providing safe spaces, and a focus on strengthening individuals, families, and entire neighborhoods. From infants to seniors, from those who are struggling to those who are thriving, the Y opens its doors to all. Few institutions match the breadth of outreach and engagement that the YMCA provides—especially this one. It does not happen by accident. It stems from a clear mission, steady leadership, loyal staff, dedicated members, and remarkable volunteers.
Throughout her professional life in private education and nonprofits, Susan saw firsthand how institutions depend on committed people at every level. Volunteerism and charitable giving are essential. She understood this deeply. So her “Y”—her “why”—was shaped by a lifetime of experiences. Even during modest times, she maintained her membership and gave a little extra when she could.
Now, at what she calls her “certain age,” estate planning has become essential. She always intended to leave something to the Y if circumstances allowed. Then, through tragic events, she unexpectedly became the beneficiary of resources far beyond her own needs. She realized she could begin giving sooner rather than later.
Her greatest concerns are for families and children. She, like most of us, wants children to grow into strong, healthy, compassionate people who understand community. She decided to honor her own family by investing in something urgent and meaningful. A single tour of the EEC was all she needed. She saw how much the staff accomplished with so little—how tirelessly they cared for, nurtured, and taught the children while supporting parents. Contributing to the renovation of the EEC felt immediately impactful for her community. That is her Y—her why.
In closing, Susan acknowledged the difficult and worrisome times we live in. She believes fiercely that we cannot sit back and hope things will improve. We may not be able to solve national discord or influence state politics, but we can take action in our own communities. Small efforts matter—enormously. Offering time, talent, resources, goodwill, and kindness to local nonprofits, businesses, and neighbors is essential to rebuilding better days.
Susan recently shared her story at the 138th Annual Meeting, to the volunteers and supporters around her, she said: You are here because you believe in community and in the mission of this remarkable organization. Your “Y” and your “why” may differ, but they are equally valuable. Share your Y story. Encourage others to create their own. Together, through dedication and compassion, we can help our friends, families, and neighbors feel acknowledged, connected, empowered, and respected. The collective commitment to our Y will strengthen our diverse, vibrant community—now and for generations to come.
Support a Legacy of Connection and Growth
The YMCA is more than a place to exercise—it is where people of all ages connect, grow, and discover purpose, just like Susan and her family. Your gift helps provide safe, nurturing spaces, quality youth programs, and resources that empower children, families, and communities to thrive. Invest in the Y today and make a lasting impact for generations to come.