For nearly two decades, Tacing Parker has dedicated her career to fostering connection and community. There is no better place to do this than as the Senior Executive Director of the Bayview YMCA. Ms. Parker leads with a clear mission: to create a space where everyone feels they belong, especially the elders who call Bayview home. Her journey from Program Director to Executive Director reflects her deep commitment to serving this vibrant and dynamic community. “I don’t have to serve—I get to serve,” Ms. Parker says.
The Bayview YMCA, nestled in the heart of District 10 in San Francisco, serves as a cornerstone for the community. “Our role is to be an anchor,” Parker explains. “We want people to know the Y is a place they can come to experience joy, receive support, and find connection. Our programs are designed to reflect the community’s needs and foster peace and healing.”
Bayview-Hunters Point has a rich history that continues to shape its identity and inform programming at the Y. During World War II, this area became a hub for African American families migrating from the South to work in shipyards, contributing significantly to America’s war effort. Once the war ended, the community faced systemic neglect, leading to decades of advocacy for better infrastructure and resources.
“This community is incredibly resilient,” Parker says. “It’s rich in culture and history, much like San Francisco’s Fillmore District. The elders here are descendants of those who built this country, and they continue to advocate for a better future.”
“I’m so grateful to Metta Fund. Outside of the church or family, there would be no place for elders to congregate, or where they could go to get services or support.” – Tacing Parker, Senior Executive Director, Bayview YMCA
Ms. Parker sites The “Big 5,” a group of women from Hunters Point who fought tirelessly for housing and equality. Their determination and relentless spirit serve as an inspiration for the Bayview Y’s work today.
The Bayview YMCA’s elder programs are among its most popular. These initiatives not only promote physical and mental well-being but also foster social connection. With a grant from Metta Fund, the Bayview Y can expand programming, serve more elders, and respond to specific asks from their community.
“I’m so grateful to Metta Fund,” says Ms. Parker. “Outside of the church or family, there would be no place for elders to congregate, or where they could go to get services or support.”
The elders always tell Ms. Parker and team what they want more of. “Our ‘Lunch and Learn’ series is always a hit,” Ms. Parker shares. “It’s participant-led, with topics ranging from community safety to brain health. These sessions empower our elders with knowledge and create a sense of camaraderie.”
Monthly excursions provide opportunities for cultural enrichment, such as a recent visit to the Museum of the African Diaspora. “For many of our elders, traveling can be challenging,” Parker notes. “These outings give them a chance to engage with the world in meaningful ways.”
Physical activity is another cornerstone of the Y’s elder programs. From “Sit and Be Fit” classes to the wildly popular monthly line dancing events, these activities are designed to be accessible and enjoyable. “Line dancing brings in over 100 participants each month,” Parker says with a smile. “It’s about more than exercise—it’s about fostering social connectedness.”
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the Bayview YMCA adapted swiftly to ensure the safety and well-being of its community. “We never closed,” Parker emphasizes. “We pivoted to online classes, conducted wellness checks, and distributed food and cleaning supplies daily.”
The pandemic’s impact on District 10 was profound, with many elders experiencing loss and isolation. Yet, the Bayview Y remained a lifeline. “We partnered with local churches to provide hot meals and offered outdoor classes in parks. It was challenging, but we found ways to support our community,” Parker reflects.
For Ms. Parker, the most rewarding part of her role is witnessing the transformations that take place at the Y. She recalls one elder who began attending “Sit and Be Fit” classes while recovering from significant health challenges. Over time, this participant progressed to being able to complete outdoor walks and more intensive classes. “She once told me, ‘I never would’ve been able to do this three years ago.’ Seeing her joy and sense of accomplishment was incredibly moving,” Ms. Parker says.
“I feel so fortunate to be part of this community,” she says. “The elders here have paved the way for so many of us, and it’s a privilege to give back. They remind me every day why this work is so important.” – Tacing Parker, Senior Executive Director, Bayview YMCA
In another instance, a volunteer couple who remain deeply committed to the Y’s mission told Ms. Parker they continue to volunteer because they love the Bayview Y. “It gives them a sense of purpose, and their dedication inspires everyone around them,” she shares.
The Bayview YMCA’s motto—“Be. Belong. Become.”—is more than just a slogan; it’s a guiding principle. “These words weren’t handed down from above,” Parker explains. “They came from our constituents. We want to create a space where people can just be themselves, belong to a community, and become the best version of themselves.”
“This concept is so very alive for us – we’re working toward that every single day. People need a safe space to just be themselves – where they can be seen and heard. The Y is definitely the place to be – no matter your age.” – Tacing Parker, Senior Executive Director, Bayview YMCA
This ethos is evident in every aspect of the Y’s work. “When you walk into our branch, you feel it. It’s alive in the culture and spirit of what we do,” Parker says. “Our community is intergenerational, and we’re proud to serve everyone from toddlers to elders.”
For Parker, the Bayview YMCA is more than a workplace; it’s a calling. “I feel so fortunate to be part of this community,” she says. “The elders here have paved the way for so many of us, and it’s a privilege to give back. They remind me every day why this work is so important.”
“Belonging and becoming is the Bayview YMCA,” says Ms. Parker. “This concept is so very alive for us – we’re working toward that every single day. People need a safe space to just be themselves – where they can be seen and heard. The Y is definitely the place to be – no matter your age.”
Story by Sahara Marina Borja; Photography by Jean Melesaine.