More than 17-years ago, the YMCA after-school program director made the leap from being a Y youth member to a full-fledged staff member. During his 17-year journey, he’s held numerous staff positions with the Y and has grown not only in maturity, but also in his leadership style and skill sets.

“I started as a young ‘Y-Kid’ going to the afterschool programs and day camps,” Lantigua said. “After getting hired I’ve worked as a program director for the Eastside YMCA, as a staff member for the boxing program and a supervisor for the YMCA’s U.S. Department of Agriculture, Summer Food Service Program grant and anything else one could think of.”

Moreover, his unshakable work ethic has caught the attention of the Jamestown Area YMCA’s operational director, who couldn’t help but praise the employee.

“Alex started out at the YMCA as a participant and has now worked for us for more than 15 years,” John Barber said. “He is a valuable member of our team who has a positive influence on youth as one of our childcare directors, and is trusted every day by the parents who depend on The Y.

Alex Lantigua is pictured having fun with some of the children assigned to his after-school program. Lantigua is highly respected among those who work with children and is known to go above and beyond the call of duty to make sure the kids in his care are safe and have fun. Submitted photo

I have personally been privileged to watch him grow as an adult as he graduated high school, became a newlywed, a father and a homeowner. Alex is a part of how the Y is making a positive community impact while also a personal story of how theY can help youth grow into the healthy adults, parents, and community members they are called to become.”

Additionally, some local area youths are also impressed with Lantigua’s persona to include students and staff at C.C. Ring Elementary School.

“Alex is respected, admired and loved by not only the staff here, but by the students and their parents,” said Annette Miller, the school principal. “Everything he does is for the kids, and he does it with all he has to offer. He’s a role-model, upbeat and has a direct impact on all the kids, not just the ones in his program, all the kids in our school too.”

Lantigua is also a man of many talents and skills.

“I have a DJ business, which I’ve had running for several years now,” he said. “I’m also starting a photography business too.”

While he is a man of many talents and draws immense respect from all those he meets, it’s his indomitable spirit and nature that sets him apart from others — thus, solidifying his place amongst those who make the cut of those who make Jamestown awesome.