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!”