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This month’s Character Counts winner, Joyce Warren has been a favorite member of the Montecito Family YMCA for more than five years. As a part-time Carpinteria resident Joyce amazes all of us as she travels between here and her homeland London, England.

Joyce brings back with her, upon each return to us, her USA-Y family, a rare joy and unconditional kindness to each and every, child, member and staff. As she runs between her Water Aerobics, Mind-Body Flexibility, Pilates, Yoga, Tai Chi and Dance classes her awareness is always up to be of service to anyone she notices in need and always with her remarkable smile.

When Joyce finally turns to more restful activities you may just find her creating one of her World Famous Scarecrows (or at least throwing a new outfit on our resident strawman located just off the track), or teaching the children how to make one. Not only a lover of straw Joyce is also an accomplished potter and ceramics designer and is always willing to share her creations with her YMCA friends and family.

When asked about her Y experience she laughs at herself and admits, “Well, if I see anything new to try, I’ll just have a go because that’s what I do. That is what it’s all about now, isn’t it? The Y is so special to me because it unites all of us, all ages and sizes while creating a magical and wonderful environment that just comes ALIVE. It’s the best therapy of course!”

And that is exactly how we feel about you Joyce, you are the best!