This letter is in response to the many articles relating to the YMCA. As I understand many of the concerns stated regarding tax exemptions and traditional 501(c)(3) designations, I want to highlight the importance of community involvement relating to fitness and the wellness initiative.

It has been my desire to bridge a gap between the common stance on competition in a local community and between local businesses. It was my decision to become educated and to take the obligation to learn and do the best that I can to help as many people as possible within my field of specialty.

I would like to believe that through my ongoing education and experience with helping those within our community, that my service commitment to my industry is being fulfilled.

I spend hundreds of hours yearly on my training. I spend countless hours working toward becoming a better practitioner and a positive role model for those throughout our community.

I work with other healthcare professionals because I know my specialty is only just a small portion of the possible modalities available.

I truly and strongly believe in our mission as healthcare providers to support and help those move better, set goals, reduce and eliminate pain. I want to continue working toward creating a network of people within the community who can offer modalities outside of what we offer through our fitness and wellness facility.

I am reminded daily of the lives we are affecting and the friendships that we are creating through our community. I also realize that I am a businessman. I have a family and I believe in the services that we offer and for the prices that we charge.

I understand the many concerns stated about the YMCA, but I also remember that my goal as a fitness professional is to help as many people as I can. I believe the staff and the people who are employed by the YMCA have the same mission as I do; to help people live better lives.

In essence, if I don’t support the YMCA or other fitness businesses or initiatives, in turn I do not support the many people who use “different’’ modalities to live better lives. If there is a need to be filled within our community, outside of the YMCA or other private organizations, and we can offer a place that people enjoy, while making money to support our families, then I try to stay focused on my mission and to network and support local efforts that are in line with what we truly want for our community.

I believe we are fortunate to have a large variety of talent in a small town. I believe we have an advantage as a community to bring our resources together and offer unique services when we join together and form partnerships.

If we shift our perception on the goal to help as many people as possible, we will realize how much the fitness and wellness field has flourished. The need for our service is growing because more people are interested in leading a healthier life.

I encourage you to set your sights on finding the programs that help you move. I encourage you to set goals that lead toward a better and healthier life.

At the end of the day, our energy is best spent by helping others and ourselves live a healthier, happier life!

Kevin Pedrey is a personal trainer and massage therapist. He and Holly Pedrey are owners of Sequim Gym (www.sequimgym.com).