Patti Davis walks the halls of the William G. White, Jr. Family YMCA with the energetic enthusiasm you’d expect from a “self-proclaimed exercise junkie.” Davis is an aerobics instructor with a passion that reaches deeper than the physical benefits of exercise. She is often seen slowing her lively pace to stop and speak with seniors, who she recognizes may need a friendly conversation.
For Patti, a woman who exudes energy and passion, the support the Y provides for seniors is a cause close to her heart. Her mother, who introduced her to the Y early in her North Wilkesboro upbringing, later benefited from the fellowship at the Y with activities like bridge, where she would socialize with friends.
“When I was a child, the YMCA was the only place to gather and enjoy healthy activities,” Davis shared. “Fortunately, from summer day camp as a kid through high school and college, I found a home at the Y.” Today, working in Winston-Salem, she has kept her family ties at the William G. White, Jr. Family YMCA. As an instructor, runner, friend and advocate for senior members, she blends her athletic life with her Y principles of a healthy mind, body and spirit.
Patti’s decision to join the Heritage Club was based on her experience with the Y, but also what it offered her mother and continues to provide to seniors today, whether they’re looking for a little more activity in their life or they’ve lost a spouse and need to build a new network outside the home. “It all began in my childhood,” Davis said. “Mother gave me the YMCA experiences I cherish, and I want to enable seniors to have the same.” Patti included the Y’s senior programs in her estate planning, explaining, “If money I leave can help get a senior to go to the Y, that’s what it’s for.”