Some people may look around and see very few minorities in leadership positions, causing them to feel disappointment or frustration as a lone minority leader. I, on the other hand, look around and feel empowerment and accomplishment as one of a handful of leaders in my YMCA with unique benefits. The current state of minorities in a leadership role is significantly low and statistics show only 50 Asian/Pacific Islanders who currently serve in senior staff positions within YMCAs across the United States. I would like to share just a few of the unique benefits that I have learned through my 8 years within the YMCA movement.

The benefit of learning from supervisors, volunteers, and donors has taught me countless lessons in my development. By being involved with the Association of YMCA Professionals (AYP) Chapter 81's Rising Star Program I have built relationships and learned to be a better supervisor through basic fundamentals of the program which include professional development, network opportunities, and personal mentors. I was recently encouraged by a President/CEO of a neighboring YMCA Association to take part in the Multicultural Executive Development Program. These are programs that are crucial to professional development and should be taken advantage by all. Be involved with your local AYP Chapter - continue the tradition of helping yourself within your profession and inspiring others to lead by example.

Leading teams of YMCA staff and volunteers in programs and campaigns to expand the mission to the underserved is a constant and essential benefit. Leadership is a treasured skill that is learned, not inherited. I began my life almost twenty-five years ago with the advantage of growing up in a household whose culture is extremely family-oriented, committed, and dedicated to helping toward the greater good - a culture that is not too different from the YMCA; we have a close-knit staff, work tireless hours, and dedicate our mission as the basis of our effort. It amazes me, still, every time I see a dedicated Y staff pull together to organize a great event for members and the community. What benefit do the small group of staff and volunteers gain except the excitement and enjoyment of others? To build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities is what gets a Y staff through the frustrations of unlimited comments about pool temperature and lack of equipment.

I have seen many wonderful occasions of leading by example through the generous work of volunteers - from which every great Y professional gains knowledge and support. Nearly 12 months before I started with the YMCA a local farmer donated 5 acres of land for a brand new state-of-the art YMCA facility. Truly inspired by the amazing gift from the Hiji Family, not the typical benefactor I was used to, I quickly learned that the Hijis were a family not much different from mine or yours - hard workers, committed, and dedicated to helping toward the greater good. I value the high expectations the Hijis have set for minorities' ability to lead through philanthropic opportunities.

The benefit of living the American Dream and fulfilling an immigrant's hope is something I can truly say is within reach. As a grandchild of Chamorro and Filipino immigrants, I am truly inspired by the uplifting stories of immigrant accomplishments. YMCA Hall of Fame Member Fred Hoshiyama, who was born at a YMCA community for Japanese immigrants, first introduced himself to me at Principles & Practices in Seattle a couple years ago and gave me great advice, "work hard and you (anyone) can be a CEO or Executive Director" because the YMCA needs dedicated, mission-driven individuals who seek to put Christian Principles to practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. This is an accomplishment that Fred and many others have achieved, the Hiji Family demonstrated through example, and you and I can aspire to reach. Our culture places us in the forefront to fulfill high expectations - it is up to you and me to learn the benefits, lead through example, and live the American Dream.