For anyone whose fall schedule is already feeling overwhelming and they're feeling the need to re-energize on a regular basis, I'd like to suggest the Matt Griffin YMCA.

It's been one year since the new Y opened on South 188th Street in SeaTac, and I've watched it become a thriving community center for Highline area youth and adults.

I happened to be the first member in the door and I've visited about 250 times since, so I've seen its value to our community since day one.

We live in a time when people are often more focused on their mobile devices than on one another. We all do it! Fortunately at the Y, you can have your "me time" with your music and exercise while still getting opportunities to socialize and interact with others. It's a hive of activity with something for everyone - basketball, swimming, cardio/weights, etc. - in a comfortable atmosphere that fosters connections.

For example, I met a neighbor at the Y that lives only a few doors away from me, but we never really spoke until meeting there.

The Matt Griffin Y is starting to become the "place where everybody knows your name," like the song from the "Cheers" TV show. When I come in and the staff greets me by name, I feel the sense of community and belonging. They definitely have that "go the extra mile" attitude.

As a father and grandfather, I think it's important that we model both self-care and community-building to our younger generations who have so many demands on their time and energy.

And as the Senior Pastor of Highline Christian Church in Burien, I see a culturally and spiritually diverse membership base at the Matt Griffin Y that's very united on important issues like providing positive guidance to kids and teens and eating well and being active whatever your age.

It's a place that's making our community stronger, and I encourage everyone to check it out.

Tim Knight
Senior Pastor
Highline Christian Church
Burien