Q&A: Meet PB’s YMCA Manager Mike Roberts in Pacific Beach/San Diego
Editor’s Note: PB Monthly’s Q&A series shines a spotlight on notable locals we all wish we knew more about! If you know someone you’d like us to profile, send the lead via e-mail to editor@lajollalight.com or call us at (858) 875-5950.
Q&A: Meet PB’s YMCA Manager Mike Roberts in Pacific Beach/San Diego
Where did you grow up?
I was born in Brecon, Wales, but my dad was in the British Parachute Regiment, so we traveled all over while I was growing up.
How did you come to be involved with the PB YMCA?
I’ve been part of the YMCA for 22 years, beginning in London, England. I came to Pacific Beach because of the exciting opportunity to help a new Y grow in this community.
Are you married? Got kids?
Married, no kids.
Give us an update on fundraising for the capital campaign.
We are progressing in our fundraising efforts and in fact, we may very well be the next YMCA project to start construction. The total project cost is projected to be $17 million. We’re always looking for more community leadership involvement to help us get to the main goal — consider joining our board!
If you could wave a magic wand and make a wish for PB come true, that wish would be:
A brand new, state-of-the-art YMCA will be a reality in two years’ time!
What is your favorite thing about PB?
It’s uniqueness. It is a community overflowing with character, and a perfect spot for a YMCA. In fact, PB ranked high on our feasibility study as having a need for a Y facility.
What is your top priority for PB improvement?
Joining with other local agencies and the school district to help improve the overall health and well-being of the community.
What is one thing you want people to know about the PB Y?
It is only in existence because of the efforts and support of the local community — and it is open to all!
Do you have a favorite spot for relaxing in PB? (Where is it?)
The Patio on Lamont. Great food, great staff — and Gina Champion, the owner, is a good friend of the Y.
How would you spend a $5,000 gift to PB — no strings attached?
I would expand the work we do with individuals impacted by chronic disease. We already do an exercise program for cancer survivors called LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, but we have the expertise to do more.
— For information about the Beach and Bay Family YMCA: 4606 Ingraham St., San Diego, CA 92109. (858) 273-9622. ymca.org/locations/beach-and-bay-family-ymca