Today on Y Connect, we’re joined by two remarkable Y leaders growing more than vegetables—they’re cultivating connection, health, and purpose. Collette Cosby, Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, is deeply committed to sustainability, food equity, and inclusive community service. Under her leadership, the Y’s Community Garden has blossomed into a powerful hub for education, access, and engagement.

Joining her is Elease Murray, the Y’s Wellness Director, who motivates others through faith, fitness, and wellness. Elease has been instrumental in bringing the garden and the Y’s new greenhouse bus to life, connecting health, nutrition, and movement for all ages. Collette and Elease are reimagining what community wellness can look like from the ground up.

IN THIS EPISODE:   

• (02:33) Collette shares what inspired the community garden

• (07:53) Discussion of the physical impact of gardening relating to health and wellness

• (11:24) The veggies that grow in the community garden, a bus that became a greenhouse bus, and garden dinners

• (21:11) Elease shares her weight loss journey, and Collette gives tips on starting a community garden

• (27:02) The community garden at the Y encourages volunteers on the second Saturday of the month

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

• The garden was born out of a desire to combat food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic and provide accessible, healthy food. More than just a food source, it was designed to be an educational tool—teaching community members how to grow their food and understand where it comes from, reinforcing the idea of “teach a man to fish.”

• Beyond providing nourishment, the garden has become a space for physical activity, mental wellness, and community bonding. It brings people together—from volunteers and local businesses to kids and families—creating a shared sense of purpose and grounding through nature and collective effort.

• The Y has intentionally made the garden accessible, even for those intimidated by gardening. Community garden assistants offer guidance, and activities like sunflower harvesting and sensory gardens engage people of all ages and skill levels, helping them discover joy and confidence in growing.

RESOURCE LINKS:

Facebook:  YMCA Metro Atlanta

LinkedIn: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Twitter: YMCA Metro Atlanta

Website: YMCA Metro Atlanta

BIOGRAPHIES:: 

Collette Cosby is the Executive Director of the J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, where she leads with a passion for community engagement, sustainability, and inclusive service. With a strong background in nonprofit leadership and program development, Collette has spearheaded impactful initiatives, including the YMCA Community Garden—an innovative project promoting food equity, education, and connection. Known for her servant leadership and strategic vision, she is committed to creating meaningful change at the local level. Today, she’ll share how the garden grew into a vital hub for learning and community.

Elease Murray has worked in the fitness industry since 2009, inspired by her love for God and her personal journey of losing and maintaining 100 pounds. She began her YMCA career in 2016 and was promoted to Wellness Director at the J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA in 2023, where she leads the Wellness Department and Community Garden. Elease is passionate about helping others find wholeness through faith, fitness, and education.