We Love You, Rhonda

By Chris Shue, CEO – Fox Valley Family YMCA

The change of seasons gives us a moment to pause. As fall begins, our YMCA family finds itself reflecting most deeply on the journey of our colleague, Rhonda Peritore. Since 2018, she has been faithfully serving behind the scenes in our Business Office, carrying countless families through her work. Earlier this summer, Rhonda received a diagnosis that none of us were prepared for: stage 4 cancer.

In seasons like this, we often don’t know what to do. We don’t always know how to help or how to show support. But Rhonda’s strength, her heart for people, and her vision for what the Y could mean to others have inspired us to respond in a tangible way.

Let’s walk together through this season—side by side, arm in arm—showing our YMCA family what it truly means to say: We love you. You belong here.

Introducing the We Love You Tee

This shirt is more than fabric and ink. It is a statement of love, unity, and belonging. It is a way to stand side by side—with Rhonda, and with every family who needs to know they are not alone.

  • For $20, purchase your We Love You t-shirt at Central or West Branch.
  • Proceeds go directly to scholarships for families, helping remove financial barriers so more children and parents can access YMCA services. This is the future Rhonda dreamed of, and together we can bring it to life.
  • When you pick up your shirt, leave a message of encouragement for Rhonda. Your words will walk with her in this season, just as she has walked with so many of us.

This fundraiser is more than a campaign. It is our community living out the prayer of John 17:21: “that all of them may be one.”

What makes this shirt extra special is that it carries Rhonda’s touch. She personally chose the color — a warm fall shade that feels unmistakably “Rhonda.” When you wear it, you’re not only showing support, you’re carrying a piece of her story with you.

A Message From Rhonda

(shared in her own words)


Hello~

I am Rhonda Peritore, proud employee at the Fox Valley Family YMCA. My title is Billing Specialist, which means I am involved in each and every YMCA program, at both Sandwich and Plano locations. This position has given me the opportunity to interact with countless members, which has been a great honor for me.

I began with FVFY in January 2018, at the Early Learning Academy West in Sandwich. While both the childcare and the gym in Sandwich are near and dear to my heart, my permanent move to the Business Office in Plano five years ago has been an amazing experience. I have met some of the best people who started as co-workers, but have become friends and even family. In January 2023, I set a goal of putting a face to every name at each YMCA location. I am still working towards that goal, but I’ve had so much fun along the way.

One morning in July 2025, I tried to take a breath, nothing happened. Just one week later, I was told that I have cancer – stage 4! Needless to say, the last 7 weeks have been a whirlwind. It is amazing just how much you DON’T know. Between all the doctor’s appointments, scans, tests, treatments, etc., FVFY has made navigating my employment simple. With Chris still new to the FVFY, I did not know what to expect, or what to say. I didn’t know what minute-to-minute looked like for my life so how could I know what to ask for regarding a work schedule and expect an answer? The actual answer I received was, “How can we support you?” Wow – what a relief. This response was a weight lifted off my shoulders and allowed me to focus on my health while knowing that I had the support from my employer. The YMCA truly does support their members, employees, and community, and I am experiencing this support firsthand.

In the last few weeks, I have repeatedly seen, through words and actions, we were all put where we are today for a particular reason. While you figure that out, love your YMCA. You belong here and We Love You!

~Rhonda