YMCA News

YMCA of the North to host ninth annual Resilinator adventure race Oct. 26

jeffrey.needham — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 19:21:36 +0000

YMCA of the North to host ninth annual Resilinator adventure race Oct. 26 jeffrey.needham Wed, 10/16/2024 - 14:21

Bloomington, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, will host 1,000 racers for the Resilinator adventure race at Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington on Oct. 26 from 1-4 p.m.

The Resilinator is a 2.5-mile adventure race on nature trails around beautiful Hyland Lake. It is a buddy race, where buddy pairs are tethered together by a rope and invited to take on obstacles designed to test their toughness and teamwork. Never scary, course obstacles include balance and strength tests, things to climb over and under, games, riddles and more.

Buddy pairs can be either two kids ages 7-17, or a pair can include one registered adult (parent, grandparent, friend or mentor) racing with a kid from the age of 5 to 17. Costumes are optional and always welcome!

The Resilinator – and most other Y adventure races – are hosted in Three Rivers Park District spaces. The Y and the Three Rivers Park District share a mission to bring new populations into nature-based experiences.

“The YMCA is proud to work with community partners to provide unique wellness opportunities for kids and families,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “When we empower young people to develop healthy habits early, we set them up for future success.”

Learn more and register on the YMCA of the North website.

WHAT: Resilinator adventure race

WHERE: Hyland Lake Park Reserve, 10145 E. Bush Lake Rd., Bloomington, MN 55438

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 26, from 1-4 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 168 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.

YMCA of the North, River Valley Charities partner to address food insecurity

jeffrey.needham — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 19:25:31 +0000

YMCA of the North, River Valley Charities partner to address food insecurity jeffrey.needham Tue, 09/24/2024 - 14:25

Community members welcome to the Farm at Camp St. Croix for Fall Harvest Fest Oct. 5

Hudson, WI – United by a shared mission to address childhood nutrition and food insecurity, YMCA of the North and River Valley Charities are partnering at the Farm at YCMA Camp St. Croix to grow fresh produce for distribution across the region – and are celebrating the fruits of their labor with the community Oct. 5 at Fall Harvest Fest.

Festival attendees can shop produce from local farms and enjoy a build-your-own-pizza market; explore the high tunnel greenhouses and the Discovery Garden while learning from local farmers; and be entertained by live music, hayrides, a barn dance and more. Donations raised at the event will support the work of the farm.

The Farm at Camp St. Croix is the first nearly year-round educational farm in the St. Croix River Valley, allowing kids to learn and farm outside while donating the harvest to those experiencing food insecurity. The farm supplies more than 7,000 pounds of fresh produce per year to local food support organizations. In addition, YMCA Camp St. Croix’s dining hall is literally farm-to-table, putting farm-fresh vegetables into the stomachs of hungry campers. YMCA of the North offers social and education programs, camp opportunities, space rentals and community events like pizza nights and farmers markets to connect the farm to the community.

River Valley Charities is the official community nutrition partner of the Farm at Camp St. Croix. The nonprofit has an established network of food insecurity organizations eager to access fresh, local produce, especially to support healthy development in children. River Valley Charities supports free weekly produce pickups by partners. Food is packaged, picked up and directly distributed to families in need. Produce is shared primarily throughout the Hudson, River Falls and New Richmond communities, with expansion planned as the farm grows. River Valley Charities facilitates fundraising to support the farm partnership and other local food insecurity initiatives, including backpack programs that provide weekend meals for school-aged children in need.

Volunteers are critical to the farm’s operations. River Valley Charities coordinates group farm volunteer opportunities and in 2024 the farm has welcomed partners like Phillips Medisize and Xcel Energy for employee give-back days. Businesses and organizations seeking volunteer and partnership opportunities can contact andy@rivervalleycharities.com.

Learn more about the partnership in this video and on the YMCA of the North website. For more information on Fall Harvest Fest, visit the event link.

WHAT:
Fall Harvest Fest

WHERE:
YMCA Camp St. Croix (North Entrance), 345 Riverview Dr., Hudson, WI 54016

WHEN:

Saturday, Oct. 5, from 2-7 p.m.
Barn dance at 5 p.m. with the Winsome Hollow String Band and dance caller

COST:

Suggested donation of $5/person to support the farm
Pizza and market items available for purchase
See event link for admission details for giant swing and climbing wall

About the YMCA of the North

About River Valley Charities

River Valley Charities helps build a stronger community by connecting nonprofits, government, businesses and individuals to support families struggling to meet essential needs within partner communities. RVC generates funds for local programs that empower individuals through access to jobs, education and resources to build brighter futures for themselves and their families, fostering lasting positive change. To learn more about River Valley Charities, visit www.rivervalleycharities.com.

YMCA of the North to host first-ever pickleball camp for grown-ups Sept. 3-5

jeffrey.needham — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:10:01 +0000

YMCA of the North to host first-ever pickleball camp for grown-ups Sept. 3-5 jeffrey.needham Fri, 08/30/2024 - 10:10

Hudson, WI – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, Sept. 3-5 will host its first-ever pickleball camp for grown-ups at Camp St. Croix in Hudson, Wisconsin.

Camp is open to participants 18 and up at all levels of play, from beginning to advanced. For the first two days, campers will receive top-level pickleball instruction with professional coaches David Dutrieuille and Dwight Krueger of Pickleball Pioneers. On the last day, participants will get to test their new skills with a tournament to close out camp.

When not honing their pickleball skills, campers will enjoy yoga, tai chi and classic camp games and activities. Participants will also be able to build community with one another at evening socials featuring live music around the campfire.

Meals will be served in the dining hall and will feature vegetables from the Farm at Camp St. Croix, which supplies more than 7,000 pounds of fresh produce per year to local food support organizations. Campers have the option of staying overnight at camp or returning for activities each day.

“Pickleball continues to gain popularity for its mix of competitiveness and camaraderie,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “We’re excited to offer this new and unique opportunity for adults to connect with one another over shared interests while refining skills that they can use at camp and beyond.”

WHAT: Pickleball camp for grown-ups

WHERE: Camp St. Croix, 532 County Rd. F, Hudson, WI 54016

WHEN:

Tuesday, Sept. 3, through Thursday, Sept. 5
Tuesday-Wednesday: Pickleball instruction from 9 a.m. – noon and 1-4 p.m.
Thursday: Tournament play will begin at 9 a.m. and will conclude by noon

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North, Vikings legend Greg Coleman to host 25th annual Greg Coleman Celebrity Golf Tournament Aug. 20

jeffrey.needham — Tue, 13 Aug 2024 15:18:01 +0000

YMCA of the North, Vikings legend Greg Coleman to host 25th annual Greg Coleman Celebrity Golf Tournament Aug. 20 jeffrey.needham Tue, 08/13/2024 - 10:18

Coon Rapids, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and Minnesota Vikings legend Greg Coleman on Aug. 20 will host the 25th annual Greg Coleman Celebrity Golf Tournament at Bunker Hills Golf Course. All net tournament proceeds benefit youth sports programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all throughout the YMCA of the North.

At the tournament, foursomes of all levels and playing ability are matched with a celebrity guest in a fivesome scramble format. A dinner and program follow the tournament. Organizers anticipate record attendance and volunteer participation in this 25th anniversary year.

The tournament is presented with generous partnership support:

Founding/Presenting Partner: TSR Injury Law
Supporting Partners: Liberty Diversified, SICK Sensor Intelligence, Delta Business
Major Partners: Medica, Minnesota Vikings

“We are honored to team up once again with Greg Coleman on this 25th annual tournament,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA. “Our Y is committed to advancing the health, wellbeing and equity of communities through our youth mentoring and sports programs. The funds we raise from this tournament will benefit programs that help children and teens build character, develop skills, make friends and have fun.”

To learn more, visit the YMCA of the North website.

WHO:
YMCA of the North and Minnesota Vikings legend Greg Coleman

WHAT:
25th annual Greg Coleman Celebrity Golf Tournament

WHERE:
Bunker Hills Golf Course, 12800 Bunker Prairie Road NW, Coon Rapids, MN 55448

WHEN:
Tuesday, Aug. 20

10 a.m.: Registration opens
11 a.m.: Lunch
Noon: Shotgun start
5:30 p.m.: Dinner and silent auction/program

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North to host annual BreakAway events August 16-17

jeffrey.needham — Tue, 06 Aug 2024 17:32:47 +0000

YMCA of the North to host annual BreakAway events August 16-17 jeffrey.needham Tue, 08/06/2024 - 12:32

Maple Grove, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on August 16 and 17 will host its 11th annual BreakAway events at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. The BreakAway events provide a two-day triathlon experience for kids and families.

At the BreakAway Splash & Dash on August 16, young racers and their families participate in a Splash & Dash, which is a 100-yard swim and one-mile run, on a custom-made obstacle course. This event, a perfect introduction to racing, is open to all ages 4 and up. Kids ages 4-6 must be accompanied by a registered teenage or adult race buddy. Many parents and grandparents enjoy participating with their kids and grandkids.

At the BreakAway Kids Triathlon on August 17, kids participate in a 100-yard swim, 5-mile bike ride and one mile of running with fun obstacles. The event is open to kids ages 7 and up who are confident riding a bike without training wheels.

Both events conclude with a victory at the fan-favorite finish line. All participants get a cool race shirt and custom medal.

The BreakAway events – and most other Y adventure races – are hosted in Three Rivers Park District spaces. The Y and the Three Rivers Park District share a mission to bring new populations into nature-based experiences.

Learn more and register on the YMCA of the North website.

WHAT: BreakAway Splash & Dash and BreakAway Kids Triathlon

WHERE: Elm Creek Park Reserve, 12400 James Deane Parkway, Maple Grove, MN 55369

WHEN: Splash & Dash: Friday, August 16, from 3-6:30 p.m. | Kids Tri: Saturday, August 17, from 9 a.m. – noon

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North announces new members to Board of Directors

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 27 Jun 2024 20:25:49 +0000

YMCA of the North announces new members to Board of Directors jeffrey.needham Thu, 06/27/2024 - 15:25

Minneapolis, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on June 26 elected new members to its Board of Directors.

Newly elected members serving a three-year term as board directors for the class of 2027 include:

W. Anders Folk, Partner, Jones Day
Mike Olson, Venture Partner, Deepwater Asset Management
Kate Siegrist, Partner, Eisner Advisory Group LLC

They join the following board directors elected to the class of 2027 in February 2024:

Terry Clark, EVP/Chief Marketing & Customer Officer, UnitedHealth Group
Karen Deutsch, Chief Marketing Officer, UnitedHealthcare
Phil Smith, Operating Partner, Altaris Capital Partners

Community board representatives were also elected to the General Board for a one-year term:

Kelly Hyman, Adventure Community Board
Clarence Jones, Harold Mezile North Community YMCA Community Board
Scott Jones, Hudson YMCA and YMCA Camp St. Croix Community Board

“We are grateful for the knowledge, skills and expertise our board directors bring to our Y community,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “Through their dedication, commitment and unwavering determination, they help mobilize our mission to build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.”

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North to celebrate National Senior Health Day May 29

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 23 May 2024 15:43:58 +0000

YMCA of the North to celebrate National Senior Health Day May 29 jeffrey.needham Thu, 05/23/2024 - 10:43

Minneapolis, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on May 29 will celebrate National Senior Health Day with ForeverWell open houses and special activities at numerous Y locations.

National Senior Health Day promotes the importance of regular physical activity and highlights how organizations like the Y are supporting the health and wellbeing of older adults in their communities.

ForeverWell open houses will take place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with specific activities and schedules varying by location. A full list of activities by location is available on the YMCA of the North website. The events are free and open to all.

Sample activities include:

Demonstration classes and fitness challenges
Nutrition and health information sessions
Wellbeing activities such as games, crafts and gardening
Healthy snacks, recipes and food
Testing and screening (blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol)

“The Y ForeverWell program gives older adults the chance to connect with one another and the Y community while practicing healthy lifestyle skills and prioritizing wellbeing,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “Our National Senior Health Day celebrations are fun, free events showcasing the great opportunities available at the Y.”

WHAT: YMCA of the North National Senior Health Day celebrations

WHERE: Multiple locations; see a full list of locations and activities online

WHEN: Wednesday, May 29, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North

Fishing For Life's Reel ‘Em In program to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods, reels in 2024

jeffrey.needham — Wed, 15 May 2024 19:11:28 +0000

Fishing For Life's Reel ‘Em In program to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods, reels in 2024 jeffrey.needham Wed, 05/15/2024 - 14:11

YMCA of the North will partner to collect equipment, host volunteers to assemble tackle boxes

Minneapolis, MN – Fishing For Life, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing fishing and outdoor opportunities for individuals facing life challenges, is proud to announce its upcoming event as part of the Reel ‘Em In program. This initiative aims to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods and reels and tackle boxes each year, enabling more people to experience the joy of fishing and fostering a deeper connection with nature, while reducing items in the landfills.

On Thursday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers will gather at the Emma B. Howe YMCA in Coon Rapids to repair and rejuvenate hundreds of rods and reels and clean and stuff tackle boxes. This community-driven effort relies on the expertise and dedication of passionate volunteers who will lend their time and skills to make this event a success.

The Reel ‘Em In program provides an opportunity for individuals with a passion for fishing to give back to their community. By refurbishing rods and reels, volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that others can enjoy the sport to its fullest. Fishing For Life is grateful for their commitment and selflessness. Refurbished rods are distributed back into the community and throughout the world by request and through partnerships like the YMCA. Broken rods beyond repair are turned into flyswatters or used for parts.

To facilitate the process, Fishing For Life has set up collection points at most Twin Cities YMCA locations. Rods and reels will be accepted for refurbishment until the end of May. Donations from the community are crucial to the success of the Reel ‘Em In program, and the organization encourages everyone to contribute their unused or broken fishing equipment.

“We are thrilled to continue the Reel ‘Em In program and refurbish 1000+ fishing rods and reels,” said Tom Goodrich, executive director of Fishing For Life. “Fishing is not only a recreational activity but also a way to connect with nature and find solace. By refurbishing these fishing tools, we are creating opportunities for more people to experience the joy and therapeutic benefits that fishing provides.”

For more information about the Reel ‘Em In program, including how to volunteer or donate fishing rods and reels, please contact Tom Goodrich at 612-987-5466 or visit the organization’s website at www.fishingforlife.org.

About Fishing For Life

Fishing For Life is a nonprofit organization founded in 2004 that is dedicated to enriching lives through fishing. The organization provides fishing and outdoor opportunities, education, and mentorship programs for individuals facing life challenges, including those with disabilities, at-risk youth, and military veterans. By fostering connections with nature and promoting the sport of fishing, Fishing For Life aims to inspire hope, strengthen communities, and empower individuals to overcome adversity. To learn more, visit www.fishingforlife.org.

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North to host all-city basketball tournament for youth May 4-5

jeffrey.needham — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:43:34 +0000

YMCA of the North to host all-city basketball tournament for youth May 4-5 jeffrey.needham Fri, 05/03/2024 - 09:43

Shakopee, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on May 4 and 5 will host a metro-wide all-city basketball tournament for youth ages 6 to 14. All teams will play during the weekend, with the championship games held on Sunday.

Around 800 participants will compete in the end-of-session championship tournament. The event is the culmination of the eight-week season where participants engaged in sports programs at their local Ys.

“YMCA sports are built on the idea that everyone has an opportunity to play,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “YMCA athletes come from all backgrounds to unite as a team. Participants develop lifelong friendships and engage in healthy, positive competition.”

WHAT: YMCA All-City Basketball Tournament

WHERE: Shakopee High School, 100 17th Ave. W., Shakopee, MN 55379

WHEN:

Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Contact: Tyler Morgan, 715-321-2421

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North to host Mess Fest May 4

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 02 May 2024 14:24:31 +0000

YMCA of the North to host Mess Fest May 4 jeffrey.needham Thu, 05/02/2024 - 09:24

Hudson, WI – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on May 4 will host the inaugural Y Mess Fest for kids and adults at YMCA Camp DayCroix in Hudson, Wisconsin.

At Y Mess Fest, participants don’t need to clean up their mess – they get to make one! The two-mile obstacle course is packed with activities where racers will crawl over, under, around and through all kinds of nature-made and human-made messes like paint, mud and sand, and will end with a giant bubble dance party. Participants will have a blast strengthening their bodies and clearing their minds as they get messy.

The event is open to children and adults, ages 5 and up. Registration time options start at 11 a.m. and go until 4 p.m. Racers choose their start session at registration. Registration includes a great obstacle course, swag, a hand-crafted medal and snacks at the finish line. To learn more and register, visit www.ymcanorth.org/adventure/events/ymca-mess-fest.

“Our Y Mess Fest adventure race is an opportunity for youth and families to enjoy time in nature while challenging themselves in a unique way – and embracing the fun of messiness,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “YMCA of the North events like Mess Fest help participants develop a love of outdoor adventure that they can continue cultivating long after the event is over.”

WHAT: Y Mess Fest

WHERE: YMCA Day Camp DayCroix, 345 Riverview Dr., Hudson, WI 54016

WHEN: Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North