Employee Recognition
Employee Recognition Program
The Y’s employee recognition program celebrates individuals who go above and beyond in their roles by providing exemplary service, making a meaningful difference in people’s lives, and modeling the Y’s four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Through opportunities like peer and member nominations, employees can be recognized for going the extra mile, showing initiative, and creating positive experiences for members and coworkers alike. Recognition can take many forms—from shoutouts and newsletter features to formal awards—ensuring that the contributions of our staff are seen, appreciated, and celebrated across the association.
Extra Mile
Employees are recognized by peers and members of the Y for going the extra mile — performing above and beyond expectations, providing exemplary service, making a difference in people’s lives, and modeling the Y’s four core values. Members can pick up an Extra Mile card at the Member Services Desk to recognize a staff member. The card is given to the employee’s supervisor who will recognize them. Extra Mile Awards can be achieved repeatedly throughout the year. Recipients receive: an Extra Mile card posted on the bulletin board, inclusion in the staff newsletter, recognition at the quarterly staff meeting, and a YMCA gift.
Staff Champion
Staff Champions are recognized by branch management for exemplary service to members, co-workers, and staff, and for showing initiative and innovation. They go above and beyond expectations and exemplify core values. Staff Champion status can only be achieved one time and requires a minimum of two years of employment. All staff are eligible. Nominations are submitted through the Branch Executive Director. Recipients receive: a Staff Champion jacket, inclusion in staff and member newsletters, recognition at the branch Quarterly Customer Service Meeting and association All Staff Meeting, a letter of recognition from the Branch Executive Director, and recognition on the branch “Staff Champions” plaque.
YMCA Hero
YMCA Heroes are recognized for continuous service to Y members that far exceeds expectations. Recipients must have already been recognized as a Staff Champion, worked at the Y in any position for at least 5 years, and continued to go above and beyond. One employee from each branch is recognized per year at the association All Staff Meeting. Recipients receive: a special name tag, a YMCA jacket, recognition at All Staff and Annual Meetings, a letter from the Leadership Team/Board Chair, and inclusion in the Y’s Annual Report.
H — Helping
E — Everyone
R — Realize
O — Opportunities