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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

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.

Dayton YMCA & Alley Project 3-on-3 Basketball Tourney

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 16:21:02 +0000

Dayton YMCA & Alley Project 3-on-3 Basketball Tourney jeffrey.needham Mon, 06/17/2024 - 11:21

Come join us for a fun and competitive 3-on-3 basketball tournament during the Minneapolis Aquatennial.

The tournament will be held at both the Dayton YMCA gymnasium and the Alley Project outdoor court in downtown Minneapolis. Tournament divisions for players going into grades 7-8, 9-10, 11-12 and Adult (19+). Four players per team with separate male and female divisions. Only $25 per person (pricing scholarships available). Cash prizes for each male and female division!!!

Hudson YMCA Traffic Changes

jeffrey.needham — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 16:16:22 +0000

Hudson YMCA Traffic Changes jeffrey.needham Mon, 06/03/2024 - 11:16

Road construction has begun at the YMCA in Hudson. Please download the map below for information showing the route needed to be taken when entering and exiting our facility.

Download map

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

Mixed Doubles Pickleball Tournament at Dayton at Gaviidae YMCA

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 09 May 2024 12:54:29 +0000

Mixed Doubles Pickleball Tournament at Dayton at Gaviidae YMCA jeffrey.needham Thu, 05/09/2024 - 07:54

Mixed Doubles Pickleball Tournament at Dayton at Gaviidae YMCA

Friday, June 21
Begins at 1:00 p.m.

Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae
651 Nicollet Mall Ste. 300
Minneapolis, MN 55402

3.0, 3.5, and 4.0 Levels (Ages 18+)
Round Robin Format
4 guaranteed matches!
All players must be 18+ years old at time of play

Cost:

$25 per person for YMCA members
$30 per person for non-members

Free parking at Park and Shop - voucher provided the day of the tournament

Park and Shop Ramp
27 South 7th St
Minneapolis, MN 55402

Questions? Contact Eric.Klingaman@ymcamn.org or 651-319-8012.

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

YMCA of the North sets kids up for a healthy start to the summer at Healthy Kids Day April 20

jeffrey.needham — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:15:26 +0000

YMCA of the North sets kids up for a healthy start to the summer at Healthy Kids Day April 20 jeffrey.needham Wed, 04/17/2024 - 12:15

YMCA of the North sets kids up for a healthy start to the summer at Healthy Kids Day April 20

Minneapolis, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, is hosting the Y’s annual Healthy Kids Day on April 20. Events will be hosted from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the YMCA in Hudson and from 1 – 4 p.m. at the Blaisdell YMCA.

This free annual event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families and a healthy start to the summer season. Sponsored nationally by Peanuts, Healthy Kids Day’s mission is to turn fun and play into lifelong memories.

The event will feature engaging activities for the whole family. All are welcome and membership is not required to participate.

Activities at the YMCA in Hudson include:

Bike safety rodeo, including a bike safety course, bike safety tune-ups and bikes of all sizes and adaptive bikes available to ride
- Participate to win a free bike of your size!
Community vendor tables with family-based activities
Ambulance, fire truck and police vehicle tours and police K-9 demonstrations
Watch Life Link III helicopter land and take off
Food vendors

Thank you to participating community partners for supporting this event.

Activities at the Blaisdell YMCA include:

Pictures with Snoopy
Bounce house
Firefighter meet and greet with the Minneapolis Fire Department
Frog and Toad Story Theatre with Children’s Theatre Company
Family fitness class
Plant a seed activity

Thank you to community partners Children’s Theatre Company, Hy-Vee and the Minneapolis Fire Department for supporting this event.

“It is so important for kids to stay active over the summer, both physically and mentally – and the Y is here to support families as they create healthy habits,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “Healthy Kids Day is a fun, free community event that encourages families to take advantage of all the great summer activities the Y has to offer.”

WHAT: Healthy Kids Day

WHEN: Saturday, April 20

WHERE:
10 a.m. – 1 p.m. at YMCA in Hudson, 2211 Vine St., Hudson, WI 54016
1 – 4 p.m. at Blaisdell YMCA, 3335 Blaisdell Ave., Minneapolis, MN 55408

About the YMCA of the North

About Peanuts

The characters of Peanuts and related intellectual property are owned by Peanuts Worldwide, which is 41% owned by WildBrain Ltd. (TSX:WILD), 39% owned by Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc., and 20% owned by the family of Charles M. Schulz, who first introduced the world to Peanuts in 1950, when the comic strip debuted in seven newspapers. Since then, Charlie Brown, Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang have made an indelible mark on popular culture. In addition to enjoying beloved Peanuts shows and specials on Apple TV+, fans of all ages celebrate the Peanuts brand worldwide through thousands of consumer products, as well as amusement park attractions, cultural events, social media, and comic strips available in all formats, from traditional to digital. Learn more at peanuts.com.

Kaleidoscope adds YMCA of the North President & CEO Glen Gunderson to Board of Directors

jeffrey.needham — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 20:00:26 +0000

Kaleidoscope adds YMCA of the North President & CEO Glen Gunderson to Board of Directors jeffrey.needham Tue, 04/16/2024 - 15:00

Minneapolis, MN – Kaleidoscope, a leading Full-Cycle Scholarship Platform (FSP) based in Minneapolis, MN, has announced the appointment of Glen Gunderson to its Board of Directors.

Glen Gunderson, President and CEO of the YMCA of the North, brings a wealth of industry experience to Kaleidoscope’s Board. With nearly 12 years in leadership at the YMCA, a current board seat with Daxko, and prior roles at RedBrick Health and Life Time Fitness, Glen has a proven track record of breaking down barriers for youth, providing strategic guidance in high-growth stages, and driving positive change.

Reflecting on his appointment, Glen commented, “As a former scholarship recipient myself, I understand firsthand the importance of the work Kaleidoscope is doing in the market. Their mission not only streamlines scholarship processes for organizations but also expands access to educational opportunities for all students.”

Founded in 2017, Kaleidoscope serves as the preferred FSP for over 500 organizations, facilitating the design, implementation, administration, and distribution of scholarships to thousands of students nationwide.

Glen’s appointment completes the Kaleidoscope Board of Directors, which includes Chairman, Justin Kaufenberg, Managing Partner at Rally Ventures; Joe Biller, Managing Partner at 503 Partners; Jeff Hinck, Managing Partner at Rally Ventures; and Jason Von Bank, CEO at Kaleidoscope.

“We are thrilled to welcome Glen to our Board,” said Jason Von Bank, CEO of Kaleidoscope. “His personal connection to our mission, combined with his strategic expertise, will further strengthen our world-class board as we continue on our mission to remove financial barriers to advancement.”

Learn more on the Kaleidoscope website.

About Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is a Full-Cycle Scholarship Platform (FSP) that gives organizations the tools and support they need to build and manage scholarship programs from start to finish, every year. Organizations partner with Kaleidoscope to build and manage scholarship applications, communicate with applicants and reviewers, complete a selection process, and manage disbursements. Learn more at https://www.mykaleidoscope.com/.  To learn more about how Kaleidoscope can improve your scholarship or grant program, visit www.mykaleidoscope.com.

About the YMCA of the North