Today on Y Connect, we’re joined by two remarkable Y leaders growing more than vegetables—they’re cultivating connection, health, and purpose. Collette Cosby, Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, is deeply committed to sustainability, food equity, and inclusive community service. Under her leadership, the Y’s Community Garden has blossomed into a powerful hub for education, access, and engagement.

Joining her is Elease Murray, the Y’s Wellness Director, who motivates others through faith, fitness, and wellness. Elease has been instrumental in bringing the garden and the Y’s new greenhouse bus to life, connecting health, nutrition, and movement for all ages. Collette and Elease are reimagining what community wellness can look like from the ground up.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (02:33) Collette shares what inspired the community garden

• (07:53) Discussion of the physical impact of gardening relating to health and wellness

• (11:24) The veggies that grow in the community garden, a bus that became a greenhouse bus, and garden dinners

• (21:11) Elease shares her weight loss journey, and Collette gives tips on starting a community garden

• (27:02) The community garden at the Y encourages volunteers on the second Saturday of the month

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The garden was born out of a desire to combat food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide accessible, healthy food. More than just a food source, it was designed to be an educational tool—teaching community members how to grow their food and understand where it comes from, reinforcing the idea of “teach a man to fish.”

• Beyond providing nourishment, the garden has become a space for physical activity, mental wellness, and community bonding. It brings people together—from volunteers and local businesses to kids and families—creating a shared sense of purpose and grounding through nature and collective effort.

• The Y has intentionally made the garden accessible, even for those intimidated by gardening. Community garden assistants offer guidance, and activities like sunflower harvesting and sensory gardens engage people of all ages and skill levels, helping them discover joy and confidence in growing.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHIES::

Collette Cosby is the Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, where she leads with a passion for community engagement, sustainability, and inclusive service. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and program development, Collette has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the YMCA Community Garden—an innovative project promoting food equity, education, and connection. Known for her servant leadership and strategic vision, she is committed to creating meaningful change at the local level. Today, she’ll share how the garden grew into a vital hub for learning and community.

Elease Murray has worked in the fitness industry since 2009, inspired by her love for God and her personal journey of losing and maintaining 100 pounds. She began her YMCA career in 2016 and was promoted to Wellness Director at the J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA in 2023, where she leads the Wellness Department and Community Garden. Elease is passionate about helping others find wholeness through faith, fitness, and education.

Today, we're thrilled to talk with two remarkable women who have dubbed themselves the Mermaids. From morning swims to community events, the Mermaids demonstrate how engagement, community, and belonging shape lifelong health and wellness. Get ready to laugh, enjoy, and discover how this group of swimmers makes every splash count, proving that age is just a number when you’re young at heart.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:08) Introduction of guests and description of The Mermaids
• (03:22) Chris describes what the Mermaids are to her
• (05:17) Carolyn shares how she was introduced to the Mermaids and refers to her friendships. Chris describes the activities they do at the Y
• (08:40) How the group was founded and how men and women participate. Most attendees are retired, and the Y is an excellent place to meet people
• (13:48) Chris and Carolyn describe a typical day at the Y
• (17:09) The camaraderie benefits mental health. The activity strengthens you physically
• (21:59) The guests tell how they volunteered at the Y, the programs and events that are upcoming and advice they would give to anyone who needs to stay active
• (25:30) The importance of welcoming people and learning their names, and the guests give prompts to individual Y employees
• (30:25) Carolyn and Chris talk about how they became aware of the Y

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• [3:23] The Mermaids provide more than water aerobics. It is a time when people can interact with each other and develop new friendships

• [7:29] Swimming is not a prerequisite for attending a Mermaids class. If you can stand in the water, you can participate

• [9:05] The Mermaids have men attend, and they are called Mermen and attend the monthly lunches with the women.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Volunteer at the YMCA

YMCA Atlanta - Adult Sports

YMCA Atlanta - Youth Sports

BIOGRAPHIES:

Chris Higgins has been a member of the Y since 2013. After growing up in Syracuse, New York, she lived overseas in Germany for a year following her marriage to Mike. She and Mike lived in a variety of U.S. cities, including three years in Kwajalein- one of the Marshall Islands in the South Pacific. Chris and her husband have two children, Patrick and Amanda, and they have two grandchildren, Maggie and Connor.

Carolyn Millender has been a Northwest Cobb Family YMCA member since 2009. She is the mother of two daughters who come to the Y four days a week. While she is retired, she is an active volunteer with Must Ministries.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts welcome Omari Crawford, State Representative for Georgia’s 89th House District and East Lake Family Y Board member, who shares his deep-rooted connection to the YMCA and his passion for running. Omari reflects on how his early experiences with Y athletic programs shaped his commitment to fitness and mental well-being, drawing parallels between marathon training and the discipline needed in sports and life. He also discusses how the legislature addresses mental health for athletes, the valuable lessons the Y instills in youth, and how he prepares for races with a focus on consistency.. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on perseverance, balance, and the power of community at the Y!

IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Intro

(03:15) Omari’s history of participation at YMCA athletic programs

(07:44) Legislature's approach to mental health for athletes

(10:32) Omari on marathons and what the Y teaches youth

(16:16) Preparing for races

(24:08) Omar’s journey of marathons and information on his next run

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Omari Crawford's experiences as a student athlete shaped his advocacy for mental health support in sports. He emphasizes athletes' challenges, such as performing under pressure while dealing with personal struggles. He has worked on legislation to support their well-being, which received strong bipartisan support.

• The YMCA played a significant role in Crawford's early development, from sports to community building. Now, as an adult, he remains actively involved, serving on the Eastlake YMCA board and advocating for the organization. His dedication extends to a personal goal of running half marathons across the country, aligning with the YMCA's mission of promoting health and community engagement.

• Omari Crawford shares how running has shaped his mental well-being since childhood. He emphasizes the power of consistency in long-distance running and challenges himself through disciplined habits.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Omari Crawford - Instagram

BIOGRAPHY:

Omari Crawford was raised in DeKalb County, Georgia and currently serves as the State Representative for Georgia’s 89th House District. After graduating from Southwest DeKalb High School, Omari attended Florida A&M University (FAMU) on a track and field scholarship. During his collegiate career, he was a member of the all-academic conference team for three consecutive years. Omari received his Bachelor of Science in political science and Master of Public Administration (MPA) from FAMU in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Omari earned his law degree and Master of Business Administration from North Carolina Central University in 2013. Omari serves on the East Lake Family YMCA boards and the MTS Sickle Cell Foundation, Inc. He is an active member of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc., DeKalb Lawyers Association, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., the Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Georgia—serving as the Grand Attorney and serves as a member of the Clark Atlanta University Athletic Director Advisory Council. Omari uses his athletic experiences as a former Georgia High School Association Track and Field Champion to mentor DeKalb County high school student-athletes. Omari participates in races and cycling events around the country in his spare time.

On this episode of Y Connect, the hosts are excited to welcome a young trailblazer in agriculture. At just nine years old, the youngest certified farmer, author and founder of Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, Kendall Rae, shares her inspiring journey. Alongside her mom Ursula, she discusses how her love for farming began, the variety of fruits and vegetables she grows in her front and back yards, and how her passion evolved into a business. She also breaks down hydroponics and shares the story behind her book, I’m Growing Places, which uses rhymes to teach the plant life cycle. This episode offers practical advice for kids interested in farming and a glimpse into the plans for expanding the farm and sharing knowledge through new projects.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [4:48] Kendall’s inspiration for farming

• [9:59] Kendall shares a tour of her garden

• [15:01] Discussion of the catering company and Kendall’s favorite recipes

• [19:32] What was the inspiration for selling the produce, and the farm’s operation

• [24:22] Defining hydroponics and the inspiration behind the book I’m Growing Places

• [29:01] Kendall advises kids who may want to farm and explains her future plans

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Creative storytelling can nurture a passion for farming. It allows young people to express their love for agriculture uniquely. Providing platforms for them to share their interests fosters innovation and engagement.

• It's important to start growing food and embrace the learning journey. Learning becomes an exciting adventure, and as you seek knowledge, you grow in skills and personally. Kendall’s passion for agriculture and business is thriving, proving that growth happens in more ways than one.

• Kendall and her family focus on expanding their farm while remaining committed to community engagement. They prioritize local, small-batch, and seasonal agriculture and offer workshops and farm visits to educate others.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

aGROWkulture - Website

I'm Growing Places - Book

Kendall Rae's Green Heart - Website

BIOGRAPHY:

At just nine years old, Kendall Rae Johnson is making history as the youngest certified farmer in the United States and a passionate advocate for urban agriculture, sustainability, and youth entrepreneurship. Inspired by her late great-grandmother’s wisdom to "put collard greens back in the dirt," Kendall started gardening on her family’s patio porch at three years old. What began as a small backyard garden has become a movement, inspiring young people nationwide to see farming as a pathway to business ownership,

sustainability, and community impact. As the USDA’s First Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, Kendall is now leading the USDA’s 1890 Land-Grant University Tour, educating students, educators, and local leaders on financial literacy, urban farming practices, and entrepreneurship in agriculture. Through this initiative, she is helping to bridge the gap between urban communities and agricultural opportunities, empowering the next generation of food innovators. Kendall’s work has gained national attention, with features on Good Morning America, Ellen, CNN, Nickelodeon News, and

Sesame Street. Michelle Obama and Kamala Harris have recognized her, and in 2023, the state of Georgia honored her with “Kendall Rae Johnson Day” on March 23rd. She is also the author of I’m Growing Places and creator of My Farm Biz, a youth curriculum designed to introduce kids to farming and entrepreneurship.

The YMCA of Metro Atlanta's commitment to early learning, exemplified through its Head Start programs, significantly impacts children and families in the community. Dr. Andria McMichael, a dedicated leader within the organization, shares her excitement about the recent expansion of these programs, designed to provide children with the foundation they need to succeed. From inspiring personal stories, like a nonverbal child beginning to speak after just days in the program, to the call for volunteers and community partnerships, the YMCA is creating lasting community connections that nurture both the minds and hearts of children, preparing them to become the future leaders who will take care of us all.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• [2:12] Dr. McMichael shares how the expansion of the early centers occurred in the YMCA

• [7:49] Dr. McMichael shares some community needs of Richmond County

• [11:15] Community connection and how Hurricane Helene impacted the centers

• [14:11] The Head Start program and the services it provides

• [18:49] The partnership between the Augusta YMCA and the Head Start program

• [21:35] What excites Dr. McMichael about this expansion and an inspiring story

• [24:38] How Y Connect listeners can support these efforts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The YMCA has successfully expanded its early learning programs into Richmond County, opening two new Head Start centers in 2024 and three others launched in November. This expansion was driven by the availability of a federal grant and the need for quality early learning opportunities in the region.

• The response from the Richmond County community has been overwhelmingly positive, with families and teachers excited about the new opportunities after a previous Head Start provider closed. The YMCA’s efforts were particularly impactful during Hurricane Helene, providing aid and services to families in need and reinforced the organization’s deep connection with the community.

• Dr. McMichael emphasized the importance of conducting a community assessment to align services with local needs, such as addressing the low proficiency rates in math and reading and the high percentage of families qualifying for reduced lunch. The YMCA’s Head Start programs aim to provide a solid foundation for children while supporting the broader community through various resources and partnerships.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Linkedin: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Head Start Program - Website

Dr. Andria McMichael - Bio

BIOGRAPHY:

Andria McMichael, Ed.D., is the Chief Education Officer for the YMCA of Metro Atlanta, leading efforts to provide top-tier early learning programs for children and families. She oversees signature initiatives like Read Right from the Start, STEAM, Start for Life, and Early Learning Readiness across seven counties and 13 centers, focusing on quality, growth, and partnerships. Before joining the Y in 2019, Andria held leadership roles in Fairfax County Public Schools, Imagine Schools, and the University of the District of Columbia. She began her career in DeKalb County Schools and SCITREK. A Spelman College graduate, she holds advanced degrees and certifications from Central Michigan University, Georgia State, Harvard, and Argosy University.