Meet the YMCA Staff
The Waterbury YMCA staff members are on-hand to answer your questions about programs, classes and the facility.
JIM O’ROURKE Chief Executive Officer
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Jim O’Rourke has been with the Greater Waterbury YMCA for the past 12 years in the capacity of Chief Executive Officer. Jim supports a management team of 11 staff directors at the Y. Support is a crucial component of Jim’s management style as he works closely with his team to help grow the Greater Waterbury YMCA into a cause-driven organization that fosters Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility. Through Jim’s unique leadership style, the YMCA has developed sustainable initiatives and programs that continue to promote health and well-being for the greater Waterbury area. The Waterbury YMCA is ranked in the top 5% of YMCA’s in the country.
Jim believes in getting his hands dirty. You might see him in a suit from time to time, but more often than not, you’ll find him in running clothes or sweats while he engages members in key wellness programming along with other YMCA program directors. He works tirelessly with his staff team to bridge the gaps in our community, whether it be with children that need something constructive and safe to do after school, or with people at risk for developing diabetes that needs guidance and regular exercise.
MIKE TEDESCO Senior Director of Operations
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About Mike
Mike Tedesco has been a dedicated YMCA professional for over 20 years, bringing leadership and expertise across multiple areas of camp, membership, wellness, and facilities. He currently serves as the Senior Director of Operations at the Greater Waterbury YMCA, where he oversees membership, wellness, camp, and facility operations, ensuring that programs run smoothly and continue to serve the community effectively.
Mike’s journey with the YMCA began in 2000 as a camp counselor, and by 2004, he took the next step toward a full-time career in camp and youth development. He spent many years as the Outdoor Center Director at YMCA Camp Mataucha, leading day camp programming, vacation camps, team-building programs, and property development. His passion for youth programs and outdoor education helped shape memorable experiences for countless campers and families.
Beyond his professional work, Mike is a lifelong YMCA participant, having grown up in YMCA camps and after-school programs. He earned his degree in Human Development and Family Studies from The Ohio State University and remains an avid Ohio State Buckeyes and New York Yankees fan.
When he’s not at the Y, you can find Mike spending time with his wife, Sara, and their three boys, Jeffrey, Brody, and Jase.
Allison Reklaitis Development Director
About Allison
Allie comes to us from the Regional YMCA of Western CT with a background in fund development along with forensic science! Contact Allie regarding the YMCA Community Support Campaign, fundraising events (Annual Breakfast, Golf Tournament, etc.) and private and government grant writing efforts. Allie works closely with the Board of Directors, associated committees and task forces. She also helps coordinate capital projects at the YMCA and at Camp Mataucha.
Brandi Fitzgerald Chief Finance Officer
About Brandi
Brandi is responsible for the financial operations of the YMCA and works closely with the Finance Committee to ensure that the YMCA meets all 501(c)(3) non–profit requirements. She is also responsible for LAN Management and in-house Technical Support.
Brandi is a welcome addition to the YMCA family, she and her family are active in the Y's Triathlon Club, Running programs, and special events.
Tami Macary Human Resources Director
About Tami
Tami is responsible for the YMCA Human Resource department. Tami works closely with the Safety/Risk management committee to see that the YMCA remains a safe place for all who enter. Tami began her YMCA career at the Naugatuck YMCA in 1989 and has been with the Waterbury YMCA since 1996. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and finds small ugly dogs and adopts them.
Jazmone Tucker Head of Housekeeping (the Y) & Facilities Director (WYS)
About Jazmone
Jazmone joined the YMCA team on June 29, 2021. With a passion for community and wellness, she is dedicated to ensuring that all members, & participants have a positive experience at the facility. Jazmone is your go-to person for facility-related needs, whether arranging event spaces or addressing maintenance requests. She brings a commitment to excellence and a friendly approach to all interactions. For any facility needs, feel free to contact Jazmone.
Patti Flaherty Aquatics Director
About Patti
Patricia (Patti) Flaherty has been the Aquatics Director at the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 1998, making a lasting impact on swimmers of all ages and skill levels. She oversees youth, adult, senior, and competitive swimming programs, including swim lessons, the Barracuda Swim Team, SAW Swim Week, and senior swim programs.
In addition to running top-notch aquatics programs, Patti is responsible for staff first aid and safety training and serves as an American Red Cross volunteer instructor. Her dedication to water safety and skill development has helped countless members build confidence in and around the water.
Contact Patti for anything related to swim lessons, Barracuda Swim Team, SAW Swim Week, or senior swim programs—she’s always happy to help!
Adam Dubois Outdoor Center Director
About Adam
Adam is the Outdoor Center Director and calls YMCA Camp Mataucha his home! He is no stranger to the camp world, having started in summer camp programs as a 3 year old camper in 1992! Over the course of his Y career, he has worked in multiple departments including: School Age Child Care, Teen Programs, Membership, and of course, Camp!
Adam is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University with a degree in Community Recreation and Youth Development. He started with the Greater Waterbury YMCA in 2017 and has grown into a major figure in the CT camping community- serving on the Connecticut Camping Association Board of Directors and as the Peer Network Leader for the Connecticut and Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs.
When Adam is not at camp, you can find him rooting for his favorite sports teams: The New York Giants and the New York Yankees!
Kristen Jones Child Development Director
About Kristen
Kristen has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Central Connecticut State University and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Bridgeport. Kristen began working at the YMCA in 2004 at the before and after school programs. Since then she has been our School-Age Director collaborating with families to bring a new level of quality and enrichment to the before and after school programs. Kristen currently serves as our Child Development Director overseeing all of School Readiness and Before/After School programs.
Alisa Brown Child Development Director
About Alisa
Alisa Brown has been an integral part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 2019. With an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and both a bachelor’s and master's in Psychology, Alisa brings over a decade of expertise to her role. She’s held positions as a classroom teacher, Assistant Director, and Child Development Site Director, allowing her to impact children’s lives at every stage. Alisa is deeply passionate about fostering social-emotional learning, collaboration, and inclusivity, championing a sense of belonging for children and adults alike. Her career is driven by a commitment to creating environments where every individual thrives.
Shavonne Arline School Age Childcare Director
About Shavonne
I was born, raised, and educated in Waterbury, CT. I earned my bachelor's degree in Human Services from Post University in 2011 which laid the foundation for my career.
For 12 years, I dedicated my time and expertise as a preschool teacher at the Greater Waterbury YMCA nurturing children's young minds to foster intellectual growth. Recently, I achieved a well- deserved promotion as the School Age Childcare Director where I continue to shape children's minds, but in a broader capacity, For Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility!
I am committed to making a difference in the lives of those I encounter.
Phyllis Lucas-Coleman Child Development Site Director
plucascoleman@waterburyymca.org
About Phyllis Lucas-Coleman
Phyllis Lucas-Coleman has been a dedicated professional in the Early Childhood Education field since 2003. She earned her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Naugatuck Valley Community College in 2012 and went on to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Studies from Post University in 2018. In 2022, Phyllis transitioned into the role of Child Development Site Director, using her extensive experience as a teacher to support and empower other educators. Her ability to relate to teachers and foster their growth has made her a valued leader. Phyllis’s true passion lies in helping children thrive—whether it’s guiding them to find their voice, building their confidence, or ensuring they succeed as they navigate the world around them.
Rubi Gil-Lopez Marketing Director
About Rubi
Rubi has been part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA family since 2015, starting as a Membership Representative before growing into leadership roles, including Membership Director in 2019 and Membership & Marketing Director in 2020. In 2025, Rubi is fully focused on Marketing and Community Engagement, ensuring the Y’s mission reaches and resonates with the community. If the Greater Waterbury YMCA is part of an event, you can bet Rubi will be there—connecting with members, sharing stories, and championing the Y’s impact.
Beyond Waterbury, Rubi is actively involved in the YMCA movement, serving on the Diversity, Inclusion, and Global Engagement (DIGE) Committee since 2020, contributing to YCMI, a Y-USA marketing initiative, and holding leadership roles on the YMCA Peer Network (YPN) board for Rhode Island and Connecticut, where Rubi also co-chairs the Marketing Committee.
A proud first-generation Mexican American and Spanish speaker, Rubi is passionate about ensuring the Y remains a welcoming space for all.
Maria Rodriguez Membership & Wellness Director
About Maria
Maria Rodriguez is proud to call Waterbury her hometown and has been part of the YMCA family since 1999. Her journey with the Y took her to Pennsylvania, where she spent 12 years at the Blair Regional YMCA, honing her customer service skills and deepening her commitment to the Y’s mission. Now back home at the Greater Waterbury YMCA as Membership & Wellness Director, Maria is dedicated to fostering Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility in our community. Outside of work, she loves spending time with family and friends.
Edna Walton Teen Director
About Edna
Edna Walton has been working for the YMCA since 2010, she has worked in Before and After School, YMCA Camp Summer Sunshine, and Camp Mataucha. At the YMCA, she has been building relationships with children and their families. Also, Edna is a proud Waterburian and has volunteered in areas around the Greater Waterbury Community. She is passionate about mentoring our youth with her experiences.
Edna feels good when she sees a lot of her returning after school kids as teens, who then remember her as their after school teacher. Edna currently oversees the Youth & Teen Department, Berkeley Center, and 21st Century Program the runs in a few of the city public schools. Contact Edna with any questions you may have!
Rachel Walker HR Assistant
About Rachel
Rachel has been part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 2007, taking on various roles over the years before stepping into Human Resources in 2015. She became full-time in HR in 2022,
Angel Arzola Accounts Payable/IT
About Angel
Angel is excited to bring fresh perspectives and dedication to his role in accounts payable and IT at the YMCA. A newcomer to the finance world, he fully embraces the Y’s mission to strengthen community through his work. Outside of the office, Angel is passionate about fitness—whether it’s weightlifting, basketball, or running. He’s also deeply committed to giving back, serving as a family advocate with our Child Advocacy Center. When he’s not working or volunteering, you’ll find him spending time with his beagle, Tobi, who always keeps him on his toes!
Tammie Lee Camp and Child Care Registrar
Contact Tammie about registration for all Child Care Programs as well as Care4Kids!
Zoraida Torres Administrative & Child Development Assistant
About Zory
Zoraida has been a valued part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA for 12 years, bringing warmth and efficiency to everything she does. As the Administrative & Child Development Assistant, she plays a key role in processing Financial Assistance and supporting families with registration for all child care programs and camp.
Fluent in Spanish, Zoraida ensures that all families feel welcome and supported as they navigate YMCA programs. Whether handling paperwork or assisting with families in need, she is always ready to help with a friendly smile.
Contact Zoraida for any questions about child care and camp registration—she’s happy to assist!
Alex Capaldo Wellness Group Fitness and PT Coordinator
About Alex
Alex Capaldo was born and raised in Waterbury and has been part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA family since 2013. As the Wellness, Group Fitness, and Personal Training Coordinator, she oversees the Group Fitness and Personal Training programs and leads key initiatives like LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA and Run Club.
Alex is a NASM-certified Personal Trainer and an experienced instructor. She teaches a variety of classes, including Yoga, Balance and flex, STT, Silver Sneakers Classic, and MX4. She is passionate about helping members of all ages and abilities build strength, confidence, and a lifelong love for fitness.
A proud Kennedy High School SOAR program graduate, Alex earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from SCSU, where she studied Business Administration, Exercise Science, and Studio Art.
Johan Castillo Marketing Coordinator
Amy Miele Child Development Student Support Specialist
About Amy
Amy Miele brings 19 years of experience to the Early Childhood Education field, having started her journey in 2006. She earned her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Naugatuck Valley Community College in 2002 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University in 2005. Amy’s career began as a Head Teacher at the Greater Waterbury YMCA Child Development Center, where she quickly advanced to the role of Director, and later, Student Support Specialist. Amy is deeply passionate about supporting children with special needs, dedicating herself to creating personalized education plans for their success and growth. Her unwavering commitment to helping every child thrive makes her a trusted advocate in the field.
Holly Ramos Family Engagement Specialist
About Holly
Holly has been a valued member of the Greater Waterbury YMCA Child Development Center since 2012. After earning her associate’s degree in 2013 and completing her bachelor’s degree in 2019 from Charter Oak State College, Holly’s dedication to Early Childhood Education has spanned an impressive 23 years. In the last two years, she transitioned into a new role as a Family Engagement Specialist, where she has been able to make an even greater impact on both families and students. Holly’s passion lies in meeting families where they are, addressing their unique needs, and supporting their growth and success. Her commitment to building strong, meaningful connections is at the heart of everything she does.
