The YMCA of Austin is giving back to those who gave of themselves to overcome obstacles and reach their goals in life.

The YMCA of Austin announced a new “Living Our Cause Membership” that honors inspirational members within the Austin community. The Living Our Cause Membership is a one-year free membership that will be awarded to an individual, couple or family that embodies the true spirit of the YMCA and its mission. Nominees are individuals or families who have overcome disabilities, challenges, life experiences, illnesses and/or obstacles in their lives and have a desire to use the Y as their place of wellness both physically and emotionally.

“Our members inspire us each and every day with their commitment and dedication to their health, the Y and our causes,” Executive Director Tedd Maxfield said in a press release. “Time and again we hear amazing stories of our members overcoming challenges, and we wanted to honor this spirit by giving away a membership to a worthy individual or family in our community.”

Anyone interested in this membership must apply or be nominated by another individual. The membership is open to both current and new members and applicants must be willing to share their story with the Y.

Applications are available at the Y front desk or can be downloaded from www.ymca-austin.org. Nominations can be submitted to the YMCA of Austin by email to ymca@ymca-austin.org or in person at the Y front desk.

The deadline for applications is Sunday, Dec. 28.
Awardees will be selected by a committee composed of members from the YMCA Board of Directors and staff of YMCA of Austin. Applicants will be judged by a demonstrated ability to overcome hardships and personal challenges, as evidenced in their personal essays. Additionally, competitive applicants will be those who possess a strong commitment to the core values and mission of the YMCA of Austin.

All factors will be taken into consideration during the selection process. Contact the YMCA of Austin for details or more information.