Nicole Vassallo has lived near the Western Family YMCA most of her life. When life took an unexpected turn, the Y became exactly what she needed.
More than three years ago, Nicole lost her job. Wanting to help her regain some normalcy and focus on her health, a friend encouraged her to come back to the Y. When Nicole shared she couldn’t afford a membership, that same friend stepped in, filling out an Open Doors Financial Assistance application on her behalf.
That act of kindness changed everything.
After her first combat group exercise class, Nicole was hooked.
“There was never fitness goals,” Nicole says. “It was more just to have somewhere to be… be a part of something. That’s what I craved so much, especially since 2020, because I got really sick.”
In 2020, Nicole faced serious health challenges tied to alcohol addiction. She lost muscle mass, became extremely weak, and couldn’t walk for months. But when she began attending classes at the Y, something shifted.
“I got stronger. I was impressing myself,” she shares. “All I needed was friends and a place to be.”
Today, Nicole has been sober for more than five years. While she’s proud of how far she’s come physically, she says the connections she’s made at the Y matter even more.
“I’m really proud of where I’ve come fitness-wise. But I’m more proud of the connections I’ve made, because that gets you the furthest in life.”
Nicole credits the generosity of donors and the Open Doors Financial Assistance program for giving her access to a place where she could heal, grow, and rediscover her own strength.
“It starts with you guys, so thank you, truly,” she says. “I wish I could give that much money to the Y, but I’m glad there are people who are that generous.”
Through her sobriety, Nicole has found confidence in sharing her story, and inspiration in realizing her own impact.
“I see it inspires people. I didn’t know I had that power. I’m learning my power here, and I like that.”
From supportive instructors to welcoming staff, the Western Family YMCA has become more than a gym. It’s home.
“It’s just a place for everyone,” Nicole says. “What else would you need in a community other than a place you feel warm and welcome? That’s the Y for me.”