Kristin Quinn is the executive director of the Woonsocket YMCA. She succeeds Diane Martin, who served in the position for more than a decade. Quinn previously served as the operations director at the Woonsocket YMCA, and prior to that she was the health and wellness director at the Family YMCA in Pawtucket.
A Cumberland resident, Quinn received her bachelor’s degree in elementary special education from Providence College and holds certifications as a personal trainer, nutritionist and fitness instructor.
PBN: In December, you were announced as the new executive director of the Woonsocket YMCA. When does your tenure begin?
QUINN: My tenure begins immediately, where I will oversee the total operation of the branch. I will be responsible for implementing strategies that foster or promote health and wellness, youth development, social responsibility and collaborations with other community organizations. I am truly excited about what this new opportunity will bring, not only for myself but for the members at the Woonsocket YMCA. I will work diligently to create an environment where families feel welcomed and driven to engage in our healthy-living programs, and I strive to foster a collaborative environment where staff members can share ideas that can ultimately improve the services our members receive.
PBN: What inspired you to seek this promotion from your previous position as operations director?
QUINN: As the operations director, my position the last year was to enhance the policies and procedures of the Y, hire cause-driven leaders and ensure the YMCA was put into position to make an impact in the community. Our YMCA has increased our membership and added programming for all ages. I know there is more to give back to this community and this promotion gives me the opportunity to make connections in Woonsocket and help combat the health issues that our community is facing.
PBN: One of your professional areas of expertise is in health and wellness programming. What drew you to that vocation?
QUINN: Growing up I was very active in sports. I played college basketball at Providence College, and after graduating I realized that my passion was helping individuals of all ages become healthier in mind, spirit and body. In 2006, I became the health and wellness director, and for 11 years worked to develop programs that helped people become and stay healthier.
PBN: What types of health and wellness programs can we expect to see with you at the helm of the organization?
QUINN: We will be offering our Livestrong at the Y program in June to help cancer survivors improve their quality of life, build more energy and enhance their recovery process. We currently offer our MOSSA group exercise classes, such as Group Power and Group Centergy, as well as yoga, Pilates Barre, and Zumba. Additionally, we quarterly have Chronic Disease Self Management classes, and also will be launching Diabetes Prevention classes at the YMCA. Lastly, our “Membership for All” initiative makes it affordable for anyone to belong to our YMCA community no matter their income level. We provide financial aid for membership and programs to those in need. Our Woonsocket YMCA is invested in the surrounding community and invested in providing health and wellness programs for everyone.
PBN: Everyone knows the words to the Village People’s YMCA song, but what do you wish more of the public understood about the organization and its needs in the 21st century?
QUINN: The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. We are strongly invested in making an impact in the lives of all individuals, regardless of age, income or background.
The Woonsocket YMCA this year provided our “Safety Around Water” swim program to 140 children at no cost to their families through funding from YUSA. We are seeking to continue to provide these lifesaving skills to families and with the help of community partners and local and federal funding, we will be able to in the future.
Emily Gowdey-Backus is a PBN contributing writer.
