Story
I grew up at the Midway YMCA, where the echo of bouncing basketballs and the sound of laughter from Teen Nights filled the building. The Y was more than a gym to me; it was a second home. It was where I built friendships, learned teamwork, and discovered who I wanted to be. Whether it was playing pickup games late into the evening or joining different youth events, the Midway Y gave me a safe, empowering space to grow up surrounded by community and opportunity.
After graduating college like many young adults, I needed to find employment and I turned to the Midway YMCA, this time not as the kid on the court, but as a staff member ready to give back. What started as a job quickly became a calling. For 10 years, I poured my energy into the same organization that once poured into me. I got to see firsthand how the Y changes lives every single day helping kids find confidence, families find support, and guiding members in health and wellness programs!
And today, that journey has come full circle. I’m honored to serve as the Associate Executive Director at the St. Paul Eastside YMCA, where every day I get to help create the same experiences that shaped my life. It’s more than work, it’s purpose. It’s legacy.
From the court at the Midway Y to the leadership office at the Eastside Y, my journey is living proof that the YMCA doesn’t just build strong bodies it builds strong people and stronger communities.
The Y helped raise me. Now I get to help raise the next generation.
Whether it’s ensuring kids have a safe place to learn and grow, offering fitness opportunities for all levels and abilities, providing families with access to swim lessons and child care through financial assistance, or helping seniors stay active and connected—your gift today helps make it all possible, upholding our important role as a pillar of whole person wellbeing for all.
Every dollar you give stays right here in our community—strengthening programs and services that change lives every day. Together, we can make sure our Y continues to be a place of belonging, support, and opportunity for every individual and family.
✨ When you give, you’re not just donating—you’re fueling what matters most. ✨
Join us today...support what moves you!