
From empowering youth to supporting families and seniors, the YMCA of Southern Arizona continues to serve the community by adapting to new challenges and embracing innovative solutions. With four branches and a range of childcare centers and programs, this Y plays a vital role across the Tucson area. Recently, the organization recognized the need to modernize its operations and better engage members, goals it has met head-on with the help of Daxko’s integrated technology solutions.
A Strong Foundation of Service and Growth in Southern Arizona
The YMCA of Southern Arizona has long been a pillar of community health and connection. Through youth sports, group fitness classes, aquatics, and early childhood education, the organization impacts lives every day. As the community rebounded from the COVID-19 pandemic, the YMCA experienced renewed energy and participation.
We're doing great after COVID, our youth sports are growing, and our group exercise classes are thriving.
With increasing participation came a need for more cohesive operations. As the YMCA expanded programming and welcomed more members, the limitations of fragmented systems became more evident.
Replacing Disjointed Systems with Integrated Tools
Before partnering with Daxko, the YMCA of Southern Arizona relied on a patchwork of systems to manage memberships, programs, and communications. This created inefficiencies and made it difficult for staff to deliver seamless service.
The implementation of Daxko changed that. By integrating operations into one platform, staff could access member data more quickly, manage tasks in real time, and provide an improved experience at every touchpoint.
The addition of tablets and real-time tools eliminated friction in daily workflows. With Daxko, the YMCA has gained a solution that adapts to its mission.
We used to pull out Chromebooks to troubleshoot; now we have tablets that allow real-time service, making it much easier for our members and staff.”
Empowering Staff and Members with Smart Technology
Rolling out new technology across four branches and multiple childcare centers required planning and commitment. Leadership provided hands-on training and workshops to ensure every team member felt confident using Daxko’s tools.
At the same time, members quickly saw the benefits of greater digital access. Whether receiving timely alerts about pool closures or managing class schedules through the mobile app, members appreciated the added convenience and control.
The YMCA’s investment in both people and tools has created a cycle of empowerment, with staff and members embracing technology as a way to deepen engagement and improve outcomes.
Once members see how easy it is, they feel more confident using the app and managing their schedules.
Leading with Heart: Amy Martin’s Approach to Community Impact
Amy Martin’s journey from membership director to executive director reflects a leadership style rooted in service, empathy, and responsiveness.
Her advice to emerging leaders in the YMCA space is simple and impactful: stay grounded, stay curious, and stay connected. Amy’s belief in collaborative leadership and intentional relationship-building continues to shape the culture and direction of the YMCA of Southern Arizona.
Getting to know your community and listening to its members can provide invaluable insights that help shape your work. You don't get that level of personal connection at a typical gym. The Y provides a sense of belonging that goes beyond fitness.
Fostering Belonging Through Personal Connection
For Amy and her team, the YMCA is a place where people come together to grow, connect, and thrive. One memorable story she shared involved a young member who began with swimming lessons and eventually joined multiple programs, forming deep connections with staff and peers along the way.
It’s this kind of journey that speaks to the YMCA’s unique role in the community. Every class, conversation, and moment of encouragement contributes to a community culture built on trust and care.
See the Difference for Yourself
The YMCA of Southern Arizona is redefining what it means to be a community anchor by investing in both technology and people. With Daxko’s support, the organization is more connected, efficient, and prepared for the future.
To experience how Daxko’s integrated solutions can support your mission, schedule a demo today.