GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

The YMCA is a place where children, teens, and young adults can cultivate their talents, develop new skills, and build bonds of friendship. Sixteen-year-old Alianna Haynes has been able to accomplish all three as a member of the C.W. Avery Family YMCA’s Thrive Dance Team. 

“When I was younger I took a summer jazz class at the Y and some of the girls told me about THRIVE. When I heard about it I really wanted to join.” Alianna said. “I remember watching the older girls dance and wanting to be like them. They were really nice, kind, and inspiring.”

Alianna, who attends Plainfield South High School, has now been a member of the THRIVE Dance Team for the last six years. She says that she maintains a passion for performing because it is a great outlet for personal expression. 

“I really like music and dance because it is a way to show my emotions. It’s a lot easier for me than saying it out loud,” she said. 

Alianna was also recently named a Faculty Favorite in Contemporary Dance at an Activate Your Artistry (AYA) Dance Convention, receiving the honor of AYA Brand Ambassador for the 2025-26 season. She credited the amazing team of THRIVE instructors for helping her prepare for competitions.

“My coach, Caly (Hitt), works with me on most of my competition dances. I sometimes get nervous and she does a really good job of helping me calm down and making me feel like I’m going to do a good job.”

Health, Wellness, and Dance Director Kristen Derengowski said Alianna sets a great example for younger dancers and that the AYA honor was well deserved. 

“Alianna is a fantastic dancer. She works so hard and when she steps on stage you can see her love of dance come through. It was great to see her abilities recognized,” Kristen said.

Alianna is excited to continue building a strong team atmosphere as Thrive’s fall season rolls along.

“It’s so much fun here. We’re definitely a family when we hang out at competitions. We enjoy being together,” she said.

We congratulate Alianna on all her success and wish her and all her THRIVE teammates the best this season!

Whether your child is just starting out or looking to refine their technique, the Y offers a supportive environment where every dancer can shine. Register for upcoming fall dance classes by clicking here.