The Atmore Area YMCA is currently in a transition period as members of the board of directors currently seek a new leader following the vacancy of the executive director position last week.

The board is currently accepting applications for the position, which they hope to have filled with a new director by June.

Allen Walston, president for the Atmore Area YMCA Board of Directors, said the person that is hired would oversee everyday operations of the Y.

“Whoever is hired will handle the day-to-day operations of the Y,” Walston said. “They would manage a staff and deal with members as well as oversee the Y’s daycare and fitness and athletic programs. They would be working for the Board.”

The staff the new executive director would manage consists of 3-4 full-time employees as well as 7-8 part-time employees.

The qualifications for the position must include completion of four years of college.

Walston said a degree with the knowledge of dealing with people is a must for the new executive director.

“We are looking for a person with a four-year degree that has strong people skills,” he said. “They need to be outgoing and have an understanding of the different athletic programs that are offered.”

After the new executive director is hired, the YMCA Board hopes membership and community support grows.

Walston said with the right hire things could improve for the Y.

“We are hoping that with the right person, we will see an increase in membership and some growth in support from the community,” he said.

Along with searching for an executive director, the Board at the YMCA is also preparing to kickoff their annual fundraiser.

Walston said the goal of the kickoff fund drive is to gain support from the area.

“With the kickoff fund drive, we will try to gain support from local businesses and others in the community,” Walston said.

The deadline for applications for the position of executive director is June 1. Any applications mailed in must be postmarked by June 1.