Does My Contribution Really Make a Difference?

Sometimes it's hard to tell, until you get a note like this:

THANK YOU so much! I really appreciate your help and this program as a whole! The YMCA organization does great things! My kids really like going to SACC [School Age Child Care] and I'm so glad I don't have to worry about their care. I would not be able to afford it if it weren't for this assistance. Thanks again for everything!

Let this be encouragement to you - your efforts do make a difference!

Youth in Government - Your Y Partners Contributions In Action!

For those of you who wonder if your Y Partners contribution really makes that much of a difference, check out this testimonial from a parent whose child recently received a scholarship to Youth in Government:

I just received word that my daughter received a scholarship and I am so very thankful for the help. I am recently divorced and am struggling to keep life "normal" , as much as possible, for my daughters. I truly truly appreciate this wonderful Thanksgiving Gift! Your generosity means very much to me. I know I will be
offering a prayer of Thanks for this and for this program. My daughter is learning so much already and I am very impressed with the way it is run.

Again, I thank you so very very much for your help. I have been blessed beyond measure. I pray that your kindness will be returned to you 10x!

The Minnesota YMCA Youth in Government program is among the top programs, nationally, in terms of quality and number of students. 60% of participants and 55% of youth program leaders are girls. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of all eligible students return the next year.

Minnesota YMCA Youth in Government builds a sense of responsibility and passion for issues, the desire to make a difference, citizenship skills, and values in the lives of teens. Ultimately, Youth in Government programs help mold character in students with a strong focus on leadership development and citizenship-building.

Check out more about this program here. And remember that your contribution to the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis really does make a difference!

John R. Mott - Living the Mission of the YMCA

One of the great leaders in YMCA history is John R. Mott. During the late 19th and 20th centuries, Mott was a living representation of both the work and mission of the YMCA, and his legacy unsurpassed. Here is a brief excerpt from the Rev. Tom Welch's "Spiritual Legacy Series" biography of Mott:

In September of 1888 he began a service of twenty-seven years as national secretary of the Intercollegiate Y.M.C.A. of the U.S.A. and Canada, a position requiring visits to colleges to address students concerning Christian activities.

From 1915 to 1928, Mott was general-secretary of the International Committee of the Y.M.C.A. and from 1926 to 1937 president of the Y.M.C.A.'s World Committee. During World War I, when the Y.M.C.A. offered its services to President Wilson, Mott became general secretary of the National War Work Council, receiving the Distinguished Service Medal for his work. For the Y.M.C.A. he kept up international contacts as circumstances allowed and helped to conduct relief work for prisoners of war in various countries. He had already declined President Wilson's offer of the ambassadorship to China, but he served in 1916 as a member of the Mexican Commission, and in 1917 as a member of the Special Diplomatic Mission to Russia.

The sum of Mott's work makes an impressive record: he wrote sixteen books in his chosen field; crossed the Atlantic over one hundred times and the Pacific fourteen times, averaging thirty-four days on the ocean per year for fifty years; delivered thousands of speeches; chaired innumerable conferences, and received dozens of awards. At 81, the Nobel committee awarded him one of the highest honors given on earth - the Nobel Peace Prize. He died at his home in Orlando, Florida at the age of eighty-nine.

Jolee Molitor - Andover Community Hero!

Jolee Molitor received the Andover YMCA’s Community Hero Award at this morning’s Andover YMCA Community Board Meeting. Jolee joined the Community Board last winter, and proceeded to jump right in to Chair Andover’s Y Partner’s Wine Tasting event. This “Signature Event”, held on October 24th, attracted over 140 participants and netted over $11,000 in support of Andover’s Y Partner’s campaign. Jolee facilitated the efforts of 7 volunteers as Chair of the event.

Jolee’s commitment to the Andover YMCA, and Y Partners, became even more evident when she volunteered to Chair the event again in ’09!!

Thank you, Jolee for your dedicated service to the YMCA!!

Pictured from left to right: Raquel Berg (community board chair), Jolee Molitor and Greg Voss (Executive Director)

Confessions of a Mom on the 1st Day of YMCA Camp

Kim Heiar, one of our Financial Development Specialists, shares her "confessions" of the first day sending her daughter to YMCA Camp. For those of you who've been there before, this should bring back happy memories. And for those who've yet to experience it, it's a wonderful story of a child growing up!

As a former day camp and resident camp counselor, I was more then excited as I got my almost four year old daughter Ellie ready to attend YMCA Day Camp Streefland this morning. She was certainly more then ready and had a huge smile on her face as I put her new, mammoth backpack on her shoulders-filled with all the camp necessities (bug spray, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, lunch, water bottle etc.).

We headed to the camp bus stop, conveniently our place of worship and waited with the older, bigger kids. Gracie came with and of course had to have a backpack on her shoulders too. As the bus came I saw Ellie moving up in line, trying to cut ahead of the bigger girl in front of her. As I reminded her that she needed to wait her turn, I marveled at how ready she was for this experience-not at all frightened but wanting it to start as soon as possible. The counselor found Ellie’s name and as I snapped photographs furiously, I noticed that other then almost tipping over from the weight of her backpack when she took her first step on the bus, Ellie did not look back. Not once. Not to give me a reassuring smile or perhaps to question the experience of a first bus ride. She put one foot in front of the other and got on the bus.

I could not see Ellie from the outside, so when another mom with a camera came off the bus, I gave myself permission to go ahead and board the bus and take a few shots myself. Ellie had found a seat with an older boy and looked up and smiled at the camera. (Yes, she is well trained!) I joked with the male counselor watching me take photos of Ellie that it would not be the last time that her mother embarrassed her in front of other kids. Gracie and I walked off the bus and away she went. Gracie cried, I think because she wanted to go with and that she would miss her big sister and I think comforting her was the only reason I did not cry myself. It seemed such a right of passage-almost like kindergarten.

That’s when it hit me. The role I had always sought to understand as the provider of youth services, I was now in. The parent. This was different then the YMCA swimming lessons and YMCA soccer Ellie has already participated in-I was not allowed to be a spectator. I needed to trust that the camp staff would take care of my baby and keep her safe, protect her and help her grow. WOW. I work for this amazing organization-other parents do this without even knowing us that well. What a privilege we have!

Making a difference…providing transformational experiences and opportunities to grow every day.

How can you not love the YMCA?

Taryn Buehring - A Giant YMCA Hero!

The Northwest YMCA has chosen Taryn Buehring as it's Community Hero! Taryn has volunteered for the Licensed Childcare once a week for many years without fail! He really knows how much the staff and kids appreciate his help at the end of the day when the kids are preparing to go home and staff is done for the day. He always has a positive attitude and really has a love for the Y and the lives it touches. He has also become very involved in the Y Partners and Capital Campaign over the past couple of years as well. Says Stephanie Thomas, interim Executive Director at the Northwest Y, "We love his sense of humor and positive spin he puts on all that he is involved with. Taryn will always make time for the Y and helps raise the funds needed to continue to support our community."

Once again, hats off to Taryn Buehring - a real Community Hero!

(Pictured: Taryn and friends)

Building Young Lives Through Camping

This is a first-hand story from Ben Stenhaug, one of our youth camp counselors at YMCA Camp Streefland. Ben's story shows the effect YMCA camps can have on young lives. As you read along, remember back to when you were that age, and see if a smile doesn't cross your face!

John is respectful, responsible, honest, caring, and his main goal at camp is to have as much fun as he possibly can. As his counselor my job is to assist in this quest for fun while still ensuring his safety. John makes balancing that line difficult; being the adventurous type, he’s been seen up to his knees in the lake, known to run off chasing a frog, and tackling less aggressive players in our group's weekly football game. During the three weeks I’ve been with John, I’ve become more understanding of his behavior and more able to connect with him.

On a routine Thursday afternoon, John broke Camp Streefland’s primary rule: he ran away from his counselor. He didn’t run away from me to make me worry or to make my job more difficult. He ran away because chasing frogs is fun. A few minutes later when I tracked John down I was prepared to scold him, but looking at the situation through John’s eyes reveals his innocence. Of course I had to make sure he didn’t run away from me again, but I didn’t feel like being too harsh when he was simply trying to have a little fun at Camp. After all, that’s what Camp Streefland is all about. Instead of yelling at him I pulled him aside and had a valuable conversation with him. “John! Why did you run away from me? You know that’s not okay.” I asked. “I caught a huge frog, sorry, I knew right where you would be,” he responded. John was right. Being a veteran camper he knew right where the pool is and there is no doubt that John would have showed up in his swim suit a few minutes later if his detour went unnoticed. After a few unimportant questions I arrived at a compelling response. “Do you act up like this at school,” I asked. “Yeah, I’m a bad kid at school, my teachers don’t like me - I got six detentions last year” he responded. “But you’re such a good kid at camp. How come you listen to me but not your teachers?” I asked. His response still warms my heart, “You’re cool, you are way better than my teachers, you are the best.” That’s the moment it occurred to me that if I am simply helping my campers have a fun time a golden opportunity has been missed.

These kids look up to me, they listen to everything I tell them. I have an opportunity that parents and teachers don’t have. It comes from being “cool” in the campers eyes. I’m “cool” in the campers eyes because parents are attempting to raise a good kid, while teachers are trying to force feed education to these kids, I’m simply trying to have fun with them. It may also stem from my long white Nike shorts and 18 year old physique, but regardless of the reason, the opportunity remains. My words, the messages I send, mean much more than anyone else’s. So I explained to John that his teacher isn’t trying to make his life difficult, his teacher is trying help him. I explained to him that his teachers are trying to make him smarter so he can truly be whatever he wants to be. I explained to a second grader the importance of education. I don’t think he really understood the implications of my thirty second message, but I do know that he was listening and that he trusts me. To make sure that my message was received I asked, “Will you try to be a good kid at school?” The conversation ended with John responding “It’s hard, I can try.” I tapped him on the shoulder and he ran excitedly towards the pool. From then on I’ve had two goals at camp. The primary goal is always safe fun, but the second and more important goal is make my campers better people outside of camp. That is what Camp Streefland means to me; an opportunity to enrich the lives of the campers in as many ways as possible. In the short run it means fun, in the long run it means making them better people.

Not too long ago I was a camper. I wish my counselor would have sent that message to me. I’ve lived in Apple Valley, Minnesota my entire life. I attended Greenleaf and Echo Park elementary where I caused my share of havoc. I continued on to Falcon Ridge Middle School and eventually through Apple Valley High School where I did well enough to be accepted at the University of Wisconsin Madison. Next week I will be starting a new adventure as I move to Madison.

Through the years I’ve played tennis, basketball, badminton, and football. I enjoy reading, and my intended major is economics. The best investment in our future is education. If I can help my campers be a little bit better students and better people I’ve done my job as a Camp Streefland counselor.

Building a Downtown Community!

On June 25, 2008 at Joe’s Garage the Downtown YMCA showed people that it is more than just a fitness facility, by hosting the first annual “Wines of the World, the World of the YMCA” wine-tasting event. Proceeds raised went to support the YMCA’s mission to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities. Last year, the Downtown YMCA gave $280,000.00 in membership financial assistance, $22,000.00 in child care financial assistance and $5,000.00 in Youth leadership financial assistance.

What else did we do that night? A community was built- a community of new friends that share a common interest. Healthy people taking time to learn the names of people they see everyday. People who they may not have known have children, long hair or learned to swim at a YMCA. People they see now and can greet by first name. Relationships were taken to a new level…friendships with common interests were formed. A new swim partner, runner partner or coffee date. This was just a few of the things that happened that night.

A successful first annual “friend”raising event...we raised $17,000.00 + dollars. We raised awareness of the mission of the YMCA, and we built a community of philanthropy at the Downtown YMCA.

Please join us for our second annual Wine-Tasting event next year, June 25, 2009 from 4:30-8:00 p.m. at Joe’s Garage. I guaranteed this year’s event to be the event of the year and it was. I will guarantee it again for 2009! See you there!

Jim Cook - Blaisdell Community Hero

The Blaisdell YMCA celebrates Jim Cook as this week's Community Hero. Cook (pictured in the middle, with Blaisdell Executive Director Mike Melstad, left, and John Meegan, Vice Chair of the Community Board, right), a member of the Community Board for three years, has been a pivotal volunteer for his neighborhood Y.

"Anything that needs fixing, Jim can find a solution," says Mike Melstad, Executive Director of the Blaisdell Y. "Jim is the most known guy on the South side. He's a wonderful ambassador and he can always find the right path."

Jim retired as Director of the Sabathani Community Center in 2006, and is still building on the great relationships he developed during his nearly 30 years with that organization. His solid community connections have helped generate even more support for the Blaisdell Y. A member of the Y since 1980, Jim was more than willing and able to step into a board member role.

"It's because of my experience at Sabathani that I have developed relationships with people of means and people with needs," Jim explains. "I help them connect the dots. The Y is an important dot and a catalyst for building this wonderful community we all see."

Jim, a quintessential team player, assisted Blaisdell in meeting its 2008 Y-Partners goal of $143,300. These funds help the Blaisdell Y maintain its charitable mission of ensuring that no one is turned away from Y programs or services because of an inability to pay a fee. Dollars raised also support other Y initiatives designed to help kids, adults and seniors develop healthy spirits, minds and bodies.

John Meegan, Vice Chair of the Blaisdell Board, says Jim is a great example to other volunteers. "This has been the best board I ever served on and it's because the whole board is as committed and as high-caliber as Jim."

Southdale YMCA + World Harmony Run= Great Story!

Two weeks ago, the Summer Power program at Southdale had an exciting opportunity to take part in a community outreach event with a group called World Harmony Run. World Harmony Run is an international torch relay devoted to advancing friendship and harmony between individuals and nations. This year, diverse international teams of runners will carry a flaming torch over 30,000 miles/48,000 km through more than 100 countries around the globe.

The kids learned that “harmony begins with me” and that everyone makes a difference to build a strong team. The group told the kids that they ran from Shakopee this morning and try to run 100 miles per day. The group sang their theme song and each child was able to hold the torch.

Pictures were taken of the kids by World Harmony Run and are now posted on their website at http://www.worldharmonyrun.org/. Once you click on their website, scroll down to USA and click on 18 July, Mankato to Minneapolis. You can also view more pictures that Jenna took on her camera while they were here in the hallway by the Summer Power classroom.

Another YMCA Success Story!

The following is a testimonial from a participant in our YMCA Multicultural Achievers program. It shows once again the kind of impact the YMCA makes in the lives of young people in our communities. It comes to us from Fatima Muhammad, who referred Bre'Andra to an aviation camp. You can just feel the excitement and enthusiasm in Bre'Andra's words when writing about the camp. Enjoy!

Ms. Fatima,

This week at aviation camp was so much fun! It was a really organized camp so we were never bored. Everyone was great and all of the counselors were in college studying aviation except for two adults who had already graduated. The leader was a woman who flies an Airbus for NWA. The other lady was an air traffic controller. We were able to go into the air traffic control tower, where they explained to us how everything worked and how to talk the pilot about things like how to avoid storms.

I had the opportunity to fly a glider, airplane, helicopter, and a 747 simulator! We even got to fly in the C- 130 with the Air Force and were allowed to go into the cockpit while they were flying! They also had a Tuskegee Airman come in and talk to us, and he was my favorite speaker.

These are only some of the things we did. We also went to the airport where the planes flew and watched their departures. That was the first time I've ever seen a 747 and that thing is HUGE!!!! We went to where the mechanics made airplanes and where they created models of the airplanes. We saw the 3M office and went on their private jets that can fly up to 5100 feet – they even had leather toilets!!! We got to see where the flight attendants do their training, and also went to where the airport's firefighters stayed at, where we got in a simulator that fills up with smoke and you can’t even see your hands in front of your face! The trainer let me put out a fire, but I had to put on this astronaut-looking thing that holds in fresh air.

Yesterday was our graduation ceremony and we met even more pilots! This camp gave us so much information and I have so many cards - the lead counselor gave me her card and said I could call her whenever I need her help - even if it's 5 years from now she'll be glad to help me out. But overall it was really fun and I thank you so much for helping me out with this. I either will go to North Dakota, St. Cloud or go into the Air Force ROTC program, but whatever I do I know for sure I want to be a pilot. On July 28th I’m going to Oshkosh for an event for all women who love aviation. They're trying to get 3,000 woman pilots from all over the country to come!! If all of them come, it would be in the book of world records! If you want to check it out go to www.eaa.org, then go to the Women Soar icon.

Again thank you so much and I'll continue to keep you updated!
- Bre'Andra Beamon

YMCA Scholarship Recipient Nidal Kram

Nidal Kram, one of this year's recipients of the YMCA Laxson Scholarship, was the subject of a recent interview on Minnesota Public Radio. You can read all about Nidal's remarkable story (including a link to the radio interview) here!

Water Safety Week at the YMCA

We live in a state famous for all its lakes, not to mention our many ponds, rivers, creeks—and backyard swimming pools! It’s definitely a place where water safety is important, especially for children. Statistics point out that children from minority and immigrant backgrounds are the most vulnerable to drowning and water accidents.

The Minneapolis YMCA is doing something about that! You may know that the Y invented organized lessons more than a century ago, and that our local YMCAs teach thousands of people of all ages to swim every year. But did you know that in partnership with Hawkins Inc., a locally-based chemical firm, the YMCA offers water safety lessons to more than a thousand Twin Cities kids each summer? And that those lessons are free to all the kids?

Some of the children participating in this year’s water safety courses had never been in a pool. Many begin with lots of fear and trepidation, but by the end of the week they’re brimming with new confidence and big smiles! Most important they’ve learned basic water safety skills that build a foundation for a lifetime of safe swimming, good exercise, and lots of fun. Thank you, Hawkins, for helping the YMCA provide this critically-needed service to our community.

Community Hero Ron Ames!

Ron Ames is the Community Hero for the newly named River Valley YMCA in Prior Lake. Ron is a very active member of the Prior Lake YMCA steering committee and has been raising funds to build the new YMCA on the Shepherds Path property in Prior Lake.

“It is a real pleasure and privilege to work with such a fine man, such as Ron. He is motivated, dedicated and when Ron says, “Move!!” we all move. That is the kind of leader I love working side by side with,” states Christa Getchell, Vice President of Financial Development.

Congratulations Ron for being on the foundation level of changing lives and saving lives at the YMCA!!

Pictured: Ron Ames (right) with Harold Mezile (left), President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis, and Fred Friswold (center), Capital Campaign Chair

YMCA Scholarships - a Student's Best Friend

Did you know that the YMCA offers scholarships to students planning to attend college or techinical school?

For the past 20+ years, the YMCA’s Albert C. Laxson Scholarship Fund has provided grants to economically disadvantaged post-high school students. Here's a thank-you note from one of this year's recipients, showing how the YMCA reaches out to the youth of our communities:

I would like to thank you for taking the time to consider and award me with the Laxson Scholarship. The YMCA is a large part of my life, and has been for the past four years. It is so nice to be getting this scholarship from the Y. I see what the YMCA does in helping the mission of building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities, and I am prouid to be a part of that, and it is great that the Y can give back to me in this way. Thank you again!

Candidates for the Laxson Scholarship must demonstrate financial need, and must display academic promise, leadership qualities, and the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Any resident, regardless of race, religion, sex, of the Metropolitan Minneapolis YMCA service area will qualify as an applicant provided he/she is a graduating senior from an accredited high school or has achieved equivalent certification.

This year the YMCA received a record number of applications for the Laxson Scholarship, and as is so often the case, there were not enough scholarships to go around. But it's not too early to start thinking about next year, so if you'd like to help deserving kids go to college, contact the YMCA and ask them how you can help with the Laxson Scholarship!

Steve Wells - Emma B. Howe Community Hero

Steve Wells was presented with the Emma B. Howe YMCA Community Hero award by branch Executive Director Chad Lanners.

Steve adds his YMCA work to an impressive life of community service. A 30-year veteran of the Coon Rapids police force, Steve is current Coon Rapids Police Chief. Steve is an active Volunteer with the Emma B. Howe Y Partners Campaign and Capital Campaign. He donates both financially and physically. Steve also helps out with many special branch events.

Steve is not only a Board Member at the Emma B. Howe Family YMCA, but is the Chair of the Board Development Committee. He also is an active participant on the Executive Committee. Steve is a key contact to community networking.

He and his wife have two kids, Matt and Kristen, and Kristen actually works at the Andover YMCA. Way to keep it in the family, Steve!

Steve epitomizes the hard work and dedication shown by our YMCA community leaders and volunteers. Thanks once again, and congratulations to Steve Wells, a YMCA Community Hero!

Ridgedale YMCA staff surprise Community Hero, Donn Wassink

We honor Donn Wassink as Ridgedale YMCA’s Community Hero!

Donn has served the past few years as a member of the Financial Resources Committee of the Community Board at the Ridgedale YMCA. His attention to detail, organization and ability to manage projects have been key to the success of our Y Partners Annual Support Campaign. Donn’s strong work ethic and great sense of humor make him a true pleasure to work with.

While Donn does not consider himself a fundraiser – the thousands of dollars that have come in because of him speak loudly! Thank you Donn for making an impact in the lives of so many in our community!

"You are keeping me healthy mind & body"

Here is another life-affirming story of how the YMCA makes a difference. This is from a member at the Downtown Y:

I am a Polio survivor. Currently I suffer from Post-Polio Syndrome. I have been a YMCA member for the last 4 years. Once a year I go through a couple of very specific tests, namely EMG, MRI and CT Scans w/ contrast. My last was last week. Four years in a row the results came back indicating: No change. This is considered good, since the expectations are a decline in the Muscle & Nerve functions. My Neurologists contribute this to my continuous work outs either at the 5th floor gym or the pool, and to being highly motivated.

In fact, much of it is due to you, the staff at the Downtown YMCA. Machines, water, chlorine, etc are all almost the same at every health club facility. What differs are the management and the staff. Your heartfelt compassion and care dictated an open door policy without any structural obstacles. I always felt like I am part of your family. You are much open to any suggestion, idea or remark. The staff I deal with to name a few: Joe, Pat, Joel, Sam, Mike, Jason, Cassie and many others on the 2nd, 3rd & 5th floors. You are always cheerful, kind, thoughtful and compassionate. Your level of tolerance is exceptional. Trust me; you are keeping me healthy mind & body. You have a gift: Care & Kindness. Thanks a million Cassie. Thanks a million Jason. Thank you ALL.

Angela Gibbs, YMCA Success Story!

Here’s a very special YMCA Mission Moment. Take a moment to read this story from Fatima Muhammad from the Minneapolis YMCA Black Achievers Program.

I nominated a Black Achiever from North High School for a “Dream Prom” contest with the Morning Show with Mike & Juliet on Fox 9. Angela Grubbs was selected as a finalist for the contest and won! We were flown out to New York this past Sunday and taped the show on Monday. The show will air this Thursday, May 8th at 9 am on Fox Channel 9. North High School’s Prom will also be taped on Saturday for a follow up story. Angela’s amazing story will highlight her accomplishments, the YMCA Black Achievers Program, and North High School.

I recommended Angela for the "Dream Prom" because she deserves to have something given to her. Angela Grubbs has endured a lot of obstacles in her lifetime. Her father has been incarcerated for most of her life and her mother is often out of the home due to her chemical dependency issues. Angela has moved around a lot in her childhood and at one point has spent time in foster care. Angela has always put everyone else before herself. She currently works two jobs to support herself and her younger brother. She is financially responsible for everything in her life and I was afraid Angela would not be able to enjoy her first and last prom because of her life circumstances.

Through it all, Angela is a very mature, bright, and resilient young woman. Angela will be graduating from North High School in June and has been accepted to Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, GA. She has worked so hard throughout her life and it is so nice to see her be rewarded for just being an awesome teen.

This contest came along at the perfect time and to a student that is ever-so deserving. The “Dream Prom” includes a formal dress, shoes, accessories, hair and make-up from professionals, a stretch limo to prom and a photography session from world-renown photographer, Nigel Barker of America’s Next Top Model.

Bob O'Hara - Camp Menogyn Community Hero

Bob O'Hara is probably the most well-traveled Arctic canoer of the last generation. His canoe resume resembles the scroll of chemical ingredients Monsanto wants us to believe are in an orange. He has done all of the rivers with Menogyn Long Trippers several times. He frequently leads workshops on Far North expeditions and is the sought-after guru for all things regarding Canadian Wilderness Canoeing and logistic planning.

His home has a collection of beautiful Inuit art that is probably the best between Toronto and LA. And he shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for the arctic with an inspired educator's energy.

Each spring, Bob invites Menogyn Long Trip Canoe guides over to his home, feeds them dinner, then, after spreading Canadian Hydrographic 1:250,000 maps all over the floor, gets down with them to discuss the intricacies of each bend in the river, rise in elevation and historical site. Our campers learn of thousand-year-old Inuit tent rings, specific safety concerns about weather, high water and ice, find out who is in the town of Baker Lake, and discover what color pack is best to have in the Arctic. This priceless information lends quality and competency to our group leadership and adds so much to the enjoyment and education of our campers.

This month, Bob got at least a small token of our great appreciation for all he has done for Menogyn groups over the years by graciously receiving the YMCA Community Hero Award for Camp Menogyn. Our prodigious thanks to Bob for all his years of service to Menogyn, his passion for the preservation of the land and his enduring friendship with the native people of the area.

Fred Friswold - A Hero for the YMCA!

Fred Friswold, Chair of the YMCA's Commitment to Community Capital Campaign and a longtime YMCA volunteer, was recognized yesterday as a YMCA Community Hero.

Fred is pictured at left with Harold Mezile, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Minneapolis.

Robie Wayne, Senior Vice President of Financial Development, reviewed the many contributions that Fred has made to the YMCA. "Fred is being recognized for his extraordinary dedication, passion and tireless efforts in our current Commitment to Community capital campaign which is at 80%, but also his continual advocacy for the development of kids and getting skills for life.

"As Fred so enthusiastically proclaims, 'It’s the Kids that keep me going. It’s exciting to know that kids coming into the world may have it a little easier.' Please join me in recognizing Fred for his significant contributions to the perpetuation of our YMCA mission!"

As a sign of appreciation, Fred was presented with the “official” Community Hero jacket and certificate. Our wishes to Fred were that he might always wear the jacket proudly!

A YMCA "Mission Moment"

The following story comes to us from one of our Andover YMCA employees. It shows again the impact that the YMCA can have on an individual life:

I recently signed up a single mother and her five children on a family membership through our scholarship program. About a week later I had just finished a fantastic swim workout and was in the locker room when a young boy approached me and said, "Hey, I know you." This startled me because most people don't recognoize me when I am not in the red shirt. I asked him how he knew me and he said, "You're the guy who helped out my family. I have wanted to come here for so long but never could and now I can come here and have fun at the Y all because of you." I told him it wasn't just me, it was everybody here at the Y and all the people who donated money to us. He asked me to thank everyone for him and his family. So, if you've made a donation to Y-PARTNERS, this young boy and his family say THANK YOU! If you haven't made a donation this year, I wish you could have seen his smile.

Downtown YMCA Recognizes Community Hero Lyman Demaray!

Lyman Demaray, a longtime volunteer for the Downtown Minneapolis YMCA, was recognized as the branch's Community Hero at a special appreciation luncheon held on April 15.

Cassie Rood, Executive Director of the Downtown YMCA, read the citation accompanying the presentation:

"After years of serving on our Community Board, Lyman continues to give many hours each year to help the Downtown YMCA with fundraising. Each year Lyman builds relationships with a large number of our donors, and this year he volunteered to help us with our Capital Campaign as well. He is always willing to call additional people each year, and he takes great pride in his connections with people. We are very thankful to have someone like Lyman who is so willing to donate his time and resources each year. We don’t know what we would do without him!"

Lyman's years of service to the YMCA demonstrates the impact a person can make in the community. The Community Board members and Downtown Y employees who gathered to honor him demonstrates the impact he has made on the Y. Lyman brings together people from many different areas and lifestyles, working together for the success of the YMCA and its core values - building strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.

Lyman Demaray: portrait of a YMCA Community Hero!

Kara Kulda - Northwest YMCA Community Hero!

Kara Kulda was recently presented with the Community Hero award by the Northwest YMCA.


Kara is shown at the presentation ceremony with (left to right) Christa Getchell, VP of Financial Development, Greg Voss, Executive Director of the Northwest YMCA, and Krista Danner, formerly Financial Development Specialist and now Executive Director of the Ridgedale YMCA.

In making the presentation to Kara, Greg pointed out the many ways that she has contributed to the success of the Northwest Y. "Kara currently serves as our ’08 Y Partners Chair. She consistently displays high energy and enthusiasm and a passion for our Y Partners program. She makes herself available for presentations, Y Partners stories and Community Board and Committee reports. She has personally made a large number of Y Partner solicitation calls, and is a true champion for Y Partners in her community, at her workplace, and through her program participation at the YMCA!"

Congratulations, Kara - another YMCA Community Hero!

Your YMCA Stories

Here's a testimonial from the Emma B. Howe Family YMCA:

On January 18, 2007, I went into the hospital with extreme chest pain. I had an artery on the right side of my heart that was closed 99% and a blood clot in that artery. The doctor put a stint in my heart. I was out of the hospital in two days. I have 13 grandchildren. I wanted to be here awhile longer for them. So I cut the portions I eat to half of what I was eating. I cut out fried foods and most animal products. The doctors said I should exercise three times a week.

I joined the YMCA in Coon Rapids and I joined the Silver Sneakers group. I exercise five days a week, three hours daily. Besides the benefit of the exercise, I have met a lot of outgoing, friendly peole. So far I have lost twenty-five pounds. My blood pressure and sugar count are normal, this is without taking medications. I still ahve some weight to lose, but I have no doubt I will lose the weight.

The YMCA has social functions for seniors that has also fulfilled a need for myself and my husband. The YMCA has enriched our lives! Seven months after my surgery, I started working part-tiome for the YMCA in maintenance. Thank you YMCA!

Jerry Hatzenbuhler, YMCA Camp Warren Community Hero!

“Jerry is a valuable member of the Camp Warren community due to his on-going commitment to developing the camp program” stated YMCA Camp Warren Executive Meghan Cosgrove. Jerry’s relationship with Warren began as a family camper but has grown in to much more. Jerry and his wife Laura have given back to the community through Y Partner calling nights and by assisting their son, Alex, with an Eagle Scout project focused on path restoration along the waterfront of Half Moon Lake.

Additionally, Jerry is filled with ideas for program improvements and has brought the Scouts up to Camp in the off-season for snow sport adventures at Giant’s Ridge.

Cosgrove and Devin Hanson, YMCA Camp Warren Assistant Director presented Jerry with the YMCA Community Hero Award.

Jerry is perhaps best known for his songs and jingles, which the family performs during Skit Night over Labor Day Family Camp…”Jerry…. Jerry…this is why we honor you!”

Danielle Radulovich - An Emma B. Howe YMCA Community Hero!

Danielle Radulovich was presented with the Emma B. Howe Community Hero award at a meeting in February.

Danielle chairs the Community Relations Committee for the Emma B. Howe Family YMCA. Danielle designed, implemented and facilitated the success of the second Emma B. Howe Gala Event. Danielle is an active volunteer for our Branch contributing both generously in person and through her company. She is an inspiration and role model to our other volunteers.

Danielle exemplifies what it means to be a YMCA volunteer - committed to the mission and the success of the YMCA, and dedicated to giving back to the community. We thank Danielle once again for her service to the Emma B. Howe Family YMCA!

Your YMCA Stories

From time to time we like to share stories from our members as to how the YMCA has changed their lives for the better. Here's one, from a member at Emma B. Howe:

I am excited about the scholarship I got to be able to use all the services at the YMCA. I'm on disability and my funds are limited. I was not able to afford the whole cost of a membership. My favorite activity at the YMCA is the pool, because I have arthritis and I am overweight. The pool helps me get exercise whithout causing discomfort to my arthritis. I also like to be able to walk when there's bad weather, rain or snow. The tread mill and exercise equipment allows me this leisure. I also attend the many classes that are offered here at the YMCA. I want to thank all the people who help with their contributions to Y Partners. Because of their continued support I am able to emjoy my membership here. Thank you to all the workers who make it comfortable for me to attend the YMCA. The workers are always nice and caring. I would also like to thank Sharron Robillard for getting me started.

This is another example of how the YMCA makes a difference in our communities because of the generosity of people who contribute to the Y Partners annual fundraising campaign. It also couldn't happen without the dedication of the thousands of people working at the YMCA. It's why we're more than just a swim and gym!

Northwest YMCA - Providing a Sense of Belonging and Community

We'd like to share with you a letter from a Northwest YMCA member receiving financial assistance:

I am so grateful for the opportunity to belong to the YMCA. Without financial assistance I would not be able to take advantage of all the wonderful programs, classes and opportunities the YMCA has to offer. During this past year, my life changed dramatically. I could no longer work and started receiving disability benefits. In order to make ends meet, I also had to seek assistance through the state and county services. This was a humbling and at times humiliating process for me and I felt very ashamed that I needed help and was embarrassed to even ask for an application for financial aid at the Y. However, from the moment I turned in my application to the process of interviewing, I never felt judged. I was so nervous about coming my first day. I thought everyone would know that I couldn’t really afford to be there, that they would think I wasn’t good enough to be there, that I wouldn’t be able to use all parts of the Y because I wasn’t a “real” member. None of that happened… from the first day I came, I felt accepted and like a member of a community.

Being a member of the Y has been beneficial to me in many ways. The first and most basic is that being able to be physically active has helped me to stay healthy enough to do what I need to do to continue on my healing journey. It improves my mood, helps me manage my anxiety and helps me feel strong and empowered. Another way the Y has benefited me is by providing a sense of belonging and community.

In the midst of everything else that happened over the last year, I lost my mother. She was a single parent and when she passed away, it felt like I lost my family. I have good friends, but no family. Coming to the Y every morning and being greeted, usually by name, means more to me than I can even express. There are days where getting out of bed or leaving my house feels too hard, but the Y is a safe and comforting refuge for me and is a wonderful place to start my day. It feels good to belong somewhere. Again, thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to be a member of the Northwest YMCA.

Vic Ladda, YMCA Camp Ihduhapi Community Hero!

Vic Ladda is a familiar face at YMCA Camp Ihduhapi. He has volunteered in the Ihduhapi kitchen for over ten years. In the summer and busy times of the year he volunteers up to 35 hours a week. “He is an awesome cleaner” said YMCA Camp Ihduhapi Executive Brian Burns, “I often see him cleaning and detailing some of the difficult areas of the kitchen and dining hall. He is also an excellent repair man. He takes care of a lot of the equipment in our kitchen.”

Brian presented a surprised Vic with his Community Hero certificate and jacket at a gathering with many of his co-workers. When asked why the kitchen runs so smooth, “We have a great crew; everyone does their part.” Thank you Vic for volunteering at YMCA Camp Ihduhapi!

YMCA Beacons - Making a Difference!

The YMCA Beacons Center at Anne Sullivan School in South Minneapolis served nearly 350 kids last year. Now in its fourth year, the after-school Center offers academic support, leadership development opportunities, arts, music, drama, dance, sports and recreation, and more.

One example of a young person whose life has been changed is Ladan (she is the staff member on the left of the picture in blue). She is a freshman at Edison High School who works part-time at Sullivan Beacons. The neat thing is that she is a "Beacons alumni," having gone through three years of Sullivan Beacons herself. (In fact, she has been involved at Sullivan Beacons every year it has been in existence).

Ladan is very excited about the program, and thankful for what it has done in her life. "Beacons helped me in so many ways," she says. "I was having a difficult time in middle school. My grades weren't good and I was getting in trouble. But then I joined Beacons. It was something to look forward to every day, and it really helped me turn things around. It kept me on track. And now I'm happy that I can come back and help the little kids enjoy Beacons, too."

The Spring Talent Show is a huge event at Sullivan Beacons. Many of the project areas are working now on what they'll present that day (such as Hip Hop Dance and the new drum group). The Talent Show will be held on March 27th.

Young people are able to participate in Beacons at not cost due to the generosity of our Y Partners donors and local foundations. YMCA Beacons is making a difference!

Kimberly Carter, Recognized as University YMCA Community Hero

Kim Carter was recognized as the University YMCA Community Hero at the January UY Board Meeting. As an alumnus of the U-Y, Kim has intimate knowledge of what the UY means to students and their leadership development. This year Kim took on the task of Y Partner Co-Chair and has worked to develop an advisory group for the annual campaign of other alumni. Working with this group Kim took the lead in developing the UY Birthday Bash to celebrate the University YMCA's 120th year in working with college students. The event was held on December 1st during our first winter snow storm and hosted over 120 participants who braved the weather to attend and had a great time.

Kim was relentless in seeking out donations, space, door prizes, raffle items and making enormous amounts of cupcakes for the 120th UY Birthday Party. Her creativity, excitement, energy was the key in this successful event. We thank Kim for all she does for the University YMCA.

Emma B. Howe YMCA Names Champion Donor and Volunteer of 2007

The Emma B. Howe Family YMCA is pleased to recognize ADC as our "Champion Donor" of 2007, and ADC employee Bill Walsh as "Champion Volunteer," honoring their continuing commitment to the YMCA.

ADC has been a Champion level donor, provided support of their employee as a board member, and granted the Sheridan Beacons Center a $10,000 technology grant for computers and software.

Bill is currently Vice President of the Community Board and has been a long-time board member. In addition, he has served as Y Partners campaign chair for three years, and has raised over $40,000 for the YMCA.

We congratulate ADC and Bill, and thank them once again for their dedication to the YMCA, and their commitment to the community!

Paul Wilson, Minnesota Valley YMCA Community Hero!

The Minnesota Valley Family YMCA was pleased to present Paul Wilson with a 2008 Community Hero Award on January 16th, 2008. Paul was presented with this award at the end of turbo kick class in front of his fellow exercise fanatics including his daughter and son-in-law. Paul is a member of the Community Board for the Minnesota Valley YMCA and has chaired the past two Y Partner Annual Support Campaigns successfully. “We appreciate the energy and passion Paul brings to the Minnesota Valley YMCA as a member, board member and volunteer,” said Executive Director Scott Peterson as he presented the award.

Paul’s volunteer experience runs deep in the Minnesota Valley community. He was a board member 10 years ago when the Minnesota Valley Family YMCA was first opened. Paul also chaired the successful Y Partner campaign to kickoff the grand opening of a full facility from a community branch. Paul took a break from the board to concentrate as a financial advisor for ING Financial Services. Paul recently received his Certified Financial Planner designation.

Paul and his wife Barbara are actively involved with Hosanna! Lutheran Church in Lakeville. Paul has also volunteered in multiple ministries at Hosanna! while Barb is a past congregation president. The YMCA’s Scott Peterson noted, “Paul brings a great attitude, perspective and passion to the YMCA in helping it serve the communities south of the river. We want to thank you Paul for helping with our commitment to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities every day.”

Andover YMCA Presents Valerie Holthus with Community Hero Award

The Andover YMCA presented Valerie Holthus of Andover High School with the 2008 Community Hero Award on January 11, 2008. Valerie is honored for her volunteer contributions to the Andover YMCA. Valerie Holthus has been a Andover YMCA Community Board member since the Andover branch opened in July of 2005. She has been active in the Y Partners Annual Support Campaign and has developed many partnerships in the community. Valerie was the Special Events Chair for the 1st Andover YMCA Wine Tasting & Silent Auction fundraiser held at the Courtyards of Andover this past November. Thanks to Valerie’s hard work and dedication the event was a tremendous success, netting over $6,000 and providing an opportunity for the community to come together and learn more about the YMCA . Valerie has worked with organizations such as the Timberwolves, WCCO Star Gazing and has volunteered for a number of Andover YMCA community events, such as the Andover Fun Fest and Harvest Festival. Valerie brings positive experiences and joy to many through her enthusiasm, passion, and dedication. We thank Valerie for her commitment to the Andover Community, the YMCA and the individuals, children and families we serve each day.

Ridgedale YMCA Tree Lot - Making a difference this holiday season in the life of a family.

A couple of weekends ago we had a number of folks visiting the Ridgedale YMCA tree lot “looking for a deal”. I was working with such a costumer who was trying to get me to come down in price on a $40 dollar balsam – she didn’t want to spend more than $20 bucks! She and her husband were both on the lot, they drove separately and it didn’t seem like the extra $20 should have been I big deal but I did come down to $30.

While haggling on the price of the balsam, I noticed a mom with two young boys drive up in a pretty beat up, rusty vehicle. She had been going from one small tree to the next checking the price tags that I knew ranged in from $48 to $56 dollars. I had just finished tying the $30 balsam on the top of the customer’s car when I saw the woman loading her boys back into her car.

I caught up with her just before she got in the car; I could see the boys looked pretty disappointed when I tossed out the questions, “couldn’t find what you were looking for?” She smiled and said, “well, it’s just all too much” – I think she was referring to the holidays. I suggested we give it another try and assured we would find something that she could take home. I could see from boys’ expressions that this was a deal mom was going to need to consider.

We headed back to the trees when the mom suggested that if there was just something smaller; they didn’t need much. With that I couldn’t help but grab one of the 6 foot balsams off the rack and said, “how about this one for $20 bucks?” The smiles on the two boys made up the difference and we had a deal.

As I loaded the tree the mother let me know how much she appreciated the affordable tree. I think in the eyes of her boys we were able to pull it off in a way that mom was able to buy a tree like every other family buys a tree.

The work that each of you do as volunteers, as staff, as members of the same community, makes a difference in the lives of so many. It is a caring adult in an after school program in Wayzata who helps a Minneapolis student with home work; it is financial assistance that allows a young man to regain mobility after a health crisis; it is the single mother who needs a safe and affordable activity in the summer for her son; it is a swim lesson given to a young Somalian girl that prevents her becoming part of a growing statistic.

Thank you for making a difference, for being a part of helping the YMCA build strong kids, strong families and strong communities… One Child, one Member, one Christmas tree at a time.