YMCA OF WASHINGTON COUNTY  
April 27 2016 

MESSAGE FROM CEO: BECKY HARKEMA
 
Tis the season for politics. When I was growing up I always enjoyed       listening to my mom banter back and forth about our national politics. This is probably the reason I like watching Fox News and even get some relaxation from it. When I was choosing a career I first thought I wanted to be a trial lawyer but quickly discovered that I didn't have the personality for that. I did discover though that my personality fit nicely with being in the YMCA. An organization that does good deeds every day. Lately, I have been entrenched with local politics. This is all due to a referendum for a new YMCA facility. However a person feels on this issue I do know that the YMCA continues to do good deeds. I do not want us to forget how the YMCA is influencing lives every day. The stories below are a reflection to this fact:


HEALTHY LIVING
 
On April 23 & 24 I had the pleasure of helping at two separate road races. One was the Demon Dash where the YMCA helps raise funds that support the Washington School District. The other race was the Color Run in Riverside . This event raised funds for the Riverside Elementary School. There were approximately 100 individuals at each event, and of all ages. It was wonderful seeing so many people enjoying time together!  
 


YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

As many of you know, running is a passion of mine. I love to be in the environment of running and have the opportunity to see the country through this hobby. What makes me proud is how the YMCA develops our youth to enjoy this hobby. Our YMCA currently has 77 youth in our track program. This picture is one of our future runners!
 


SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
  
On April 2 the YMCA hosted our Annual Gala Event. It was a beautiful event held at the Wellman YMCA. There were 140 people in attendance who enjoyed a wonderful meal, entertainment and silent auction. Most importantly, we all spent the evening together being grateful for the YMCA  being in Washington County.  Thank you all for your support!

Becky Harkema
319.653.2141
Our Mission

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.


 

Our Cause

At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. We believe that lasting personal and social change can only come about when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health and our neighbors. That's why we focus our work in three areas: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.