Andy Beahrs, Erik Beahrs & Eli Windchy: Making Connections at the Y
When Andy and Erik walk through the front door of the Y, Erik’s smile and animated chatter are in the lead, prompting a chorus of “Hey Erik” from the Welcome Desk Staff. By the time Erik and his dad Andy arrive, Erik’s mom Eli has already left from her early morning workout. Rarely are all three at the Y at the same time, which is why they were so excited to find a place here for Erik, and why the Y is so important to them as a family.
Andy and Eli were among the first of their friends to have a child, so they didn’t know a lot of other parents. Through Childwatch Erik has made friends which have led to lots of play dates outside of the Y and Andy and Eli appreciate the cross section of parents they have been able to network with. Both have very complicated schedules that require a real balancing act.
Finding a place for Erik that accommodates both of their schedules adds a lot to their family time. Paramount in all of this is the security and peace of mind they have leaving Erik in the care of the Y’s Childwatch staff when they workout. Both Andy and I love the warmth and tone of the Childwatch environment and the caring staff who know all of the children’s names,” says Eli. “Some of the friendships that Erik has made here will be with him for years.”
