Sandy Stooke’s remarkable connection with the YMCA is a testament to how early experiences can shape a lifetime of philanthropic engagement. Her ties began in the mid-1960s when her young family moved to Staten Island. They sought connection and found a welcoming community at the YMCA. These early memories led Sandy on a journey to become a significant advocate for the YMCA’s mission — eventually igniting her passion to giving back.
After moving back to Minnesota, Sandy became an active member at the Minneapolis Downtown YMCA. Her dedication didn’t go unnoticed, and soon she was invited by Minneapolis leaders to volunteer and promote its newest branch, the Southdale YMCA. To prepare the branch for its grand opening, Sandy served on the community board and once the building was completed in 1975, joined as a YMCA employee. At the time, Sandy had no idea that a gym membership and volunteer opportunity would kick-start a 20+ year Y career.
Sandy’s fitness classes at Southdale began with just four participants, but as the YMCA membership grew, attendance soared to 40 women per session. This success led her to interview and become the first female executive in the St. Paul YMCA association. It was uncommon for staff to move between associations, but Sandy continued to pave pathways in the workplace.
As a changemaker throughout the ‘70s-’90s, Sandy used her Y platform to create more women’s programming. She initiated a women’s camp where over 100 female participants gathered for a week dedicated to personal wellness. The camp created a supportive and safe environment for participants to focus on their individual journeys — a much-needed space for women. Some of Sandy’s fondest memories were created during these retreats.
Eventually, Sandy went back to her Southdale roots and for 15 years led as the Executive Director. As a senior leader, Sandy embraced her Y role; she networked, built local relationships, and fundraised. Her commitment to the YMCA’s pillars of spirit, mind, and body served as the foundation for her work. Sandy had one final advancement and retired as a Senior Vice President for the Minneapolis Y.
Sandy’s faith and long-standing involvement with the YMCA inspired her to establish the Jim Stooke Endowment Fund, in honor of her late husband and his own impressive 40-year Y career. This fund provides vital support for professional development opportunities to Y team members. Jim and Sandy dedicated their lives to serving the YMCA and reinvesting in staff seemed like a perfect way to pay it forward for all the opportunities they received.
Sandy’s story is a testament to the incredible impact the YMCA has on individuals. For her, philanthropy is not just about financial support, it is about ensuring the Y’s mission is accessible to future generations.