Category: Personal Y Stories

Making Health a Priority

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Monica got involved with the Y at 50, hoping to improve her health and overall wellbeing. At the time, she was overweight, didn’t like how she looked in photos, was watching her mom struggle with dementia, and had two teenagers at home. “I wanted to get healthier as I aged,” she said. “I didn’t want my kids to either lose their mom too soon—or have to take care of her.”

She initially signed up for Personal Training sessions. Intimidated by the gym, she had made it a New Year’s resolution—but on the day of her first session, she slipped on ice and broke her leg, putting training on hold. After physical therapy, she still had a limp and didn’t want that to define her future, so she returned to the idea of personal training.

That’s when she found Amanda. “Not going to lie—I was skeptical at first. The whole concept of fitness training was so foreign to me,” Monica said. Amanda’s fun, patient, and knowledgeable approach quickly changed that.

Amanda recognized that Monica’s challenges were more than physical. “A lot of my self-doubt was mental,” Monica said. “My mind had talked me into fearing re-injury, thinking I’d never use the ‘cool’ machines, or that I’d never lose weight. Amanda realized that and encouraged me without being fake or placating.”

Amanda has seen that growth firsthand. “It’s been great to see the progress and confidence Monica has gained since coming to me post injury,” Amanda said. “When she comes into a session telling me about something she was able to do that she struggled with before, I smile.”

Amanda tailored workouts to Monica’s size, confidence, and physical limitations, creatively modifying exercises so she could succeed. The equipment at the Ehlinger Center, including the EGYM machines, became key tools in her progress.

Two and a half years later, Monica is no longer limping. She’s enjoying workouts, experimenting with new routines, and even using the “cool machines” she once thought were out of reach. “I’m curious now,” she said. “I want to try new things, get stronger, lift heavier, and push my cardio. Clothes fit better, I’ve lost weight, and I can’t wait to see what Amanda comes up with next.”

Monica feels healthier now than she did at 50—and is committed to maintaining that momentum. “Because of the Y, I’m finally making my health a priority. I would have lost interest or gotten scared away if it hadn’t been for Amanda and the Y.”

“Because of the Y, I’m finally making my health a priority. I would have lost interest or gotten scared away if it hadn’t been for Amanda and the Y.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Celebrating 100 Years of Impact and Service

Posted on by Kate Haslar

As one year comes to a close and another begins, we take time to reflect on the accomplishments of the past twelve months and our hopes for the year ahead. This year, however, is truly extraordinary. 

In 2026, your YMCA will celebrate 100 years of impact and service to our communities—a century defined by connection, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to strengthening lives. 

A century ago, community leaders in the Oconomowoc area came together with a shared belief: a YMCA could improve the quality of life for youth in their community. That vision became reality on June 26, 1926, when our YMCA was founded.  

Looking back over the past 100 years, it is remarkable to see how far we have come. That first facility was small, offering programs primarily for youth with a few opportunities for adults. The annual budget was just $4,500, yet more than 800 people participated in YMCA programs—an early sign of the meaningful role the Y would play. 

Today, our two branches serve more than 20,000 Y members and countless more community participants. Our YMCA at Pabst Farms facility in Oconomowoc, still considered “new” by many, proudly marks its 22nd year of service. In Watertown, we celebrated the grand opening of the Schultz Family YMCA on November 8, 2025, an exciting milestone that reflects our continued growth and investment in the future. 

Of course, our story is about far more than buildings. Over the past century, your YMCA has adapted, evolved, and endured—meeting each generation where it was and responding to the needs of the time. That is why, in 2026, we are pausing to do something special. 

This entire year will be dedicated to celebrating our past, honoring our present, and envisioning the next 100 years. 

At the heart of this story is you, our members. Through times of challenge and times of triumph, you have stood with us. Just five years ago, during the uncertainty of the COVID pandemic, our YMCA temporarily closed its doors, but our mission never stopped. Your loyalty, encouragement, and belief in the YMCA carried us forward and reminded us why this organization matters so deeply. 

As we begin this centennial year, we invite you to celebrate alongside us through stories, events, and moments that honor the legacy we share and the future we are building together. 

Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey. The past 100 years would not have been possible without you. The next 100 years begin with us, together. 

With gratitude and excitement,

Jon Lange

Chief Executive Officer

Share Your Memories

As we celebrate our 100th year, we’d love to hear your Y story. Share your memories or historical photos, which may be featured in our anniversary celebrations, displays, or communications. You can email them to [email protected].

Triathlon Training at the Y

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Andy and Carly Schrom met online in 2023 and quickly discovered a shared love of running and biking. Carly was also into swimming, but neither had ever competed in all three together at a serious level.  They ended up getting each other into triathlons. That same year, Carly completed two Ironman 70.3 races, and Andy did one. An Ironman 70.3, also called a Half Ironman, includes a 1.2-mile swim, a 56-mile bike ride, and a 13.1-mile run–all completed consecutively. Carly’s first world championship qualification at the 2023 70.3 Muncie really set things in motion for years to come. Since then, they’ve each finished seven Ironman 70.3 races, including two 70.3 World Championships, as well as Ironman Wisconsin this year, where Carly was the overall female champion by 30 minutes. “We are officially hooked,” they said, “There are countless 70.3 and full Ironman races in our future.”

The Y has played a central role in their training. They point to the facility’s pool as one of the biggest advantages. Equally important, they say, is the community. “The staff, lifeguards, other triathletes, and even other patrons in the locker room—it’s unbelievable,” they shared. “It’s a large reason why we love training at the Y”. Additionally, now that winter is here, treadmills become crucial for higher-intensity runs when it’s icy or below zero outside.

Most recently, Carly and Andy participated in the Ironman 70.3 World Championship in Spain. The 1.2-mile swim in the Mediterranean, the 56-mile mountainous bike course, and the 13.1-mile run along the beach and through town was the most challenging course they have ever competed on. Despite that, they were surprised by their run performances. Carly recorded a 1:22 (6:18/mi), and Andy a 1:26 (6:36/mi)—their best-ever run splits off the bike.

Their families were there every step of the way, including Carly’s sister, Claire, who also competed. “It takes a village for us to do these events,” they said. “All of our success and accomplishments are a reflection of the people around us. Our families are a major part of this, and our Y family is as well. We are thankful for an amazing place to train and the community at the Y to make it more enjoyable!”

"All of our success and accomplishments are a reflection of the people around us. Our families are a major part of this, and our Y family is as well. We are thankful for an amazing place to train and the community at the Y to make it more enjoyable!”

Inspired by athletes like Andy and Carly? Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or toeing the line for the very first time, our Y-NOT-TRI is a great addition to your 2026 race calendar. With individual and relay options, there’s a race for everyone—start your triathlon journey with us!

March 1st, 2026

Learn more about Y Not Tri

Connecting People, Creating Community

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Our recent Annual Campaign Auction & Dinner was a huge success and we are so grateful for all the support!

The generosity of our donors and the community was overwhelming. With your support, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of youth, individuals, and families in the Watertown area.

The video below was shown the night of the auction and highlights just one example of our mission in action… check it out!

A Place to Land and Grow

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

In the fall of 2024, Lisa, her husband Peter, and their 15-month-old daughter Sylvie made a big move from Phoenix to the Lake Country area. Like many families relocating, they knew rebuilding their social network would be one of the biggest challenges. They had family ties to the Y, so it seemed like a natural place to start. “When we walked in the door,” Lisa recalls, “it was like, this is it. It felt like a family vibe—and it had everything we needed.”

Lisa quickly signed Sylvie up for the Y’s Parent-Child classes like Toddler Time, Stretch and Tumble, and Giggle Wiggle. Going three days a week, Sylvie gained confidence, developed important social and motor skills, and bonded with other children. Over time, Lisa also connected with several parents in the classes. Sometimes after class, they hang out together in the play area or by the pond. Additionally, Lisa and another mom started having a weekly snack date where their kids play while they visit.

Transitioning Sylvie into Kid’s Corner was another important milestone. The staff’s supportive and compassionate approach helped Sylvie get comfortable being away from her parents, which also gave Lisa valuable time for fitness and self-care—an important part of her well-being. Lisa remembers one of Sylvie’s first drop-offs when she had to pick her up early because Sylvie was upset and crying. Overwhelmed by the emotions of the recent move and change, Lisa found herself tearing up as well. Melanie, a staff member, gently held Sylvie and reassured Lisa, saying, “It’s going to be okay—just keep coming back.” Lisa reflects, “That’s just how everyone here makes you feel—supported and encouraged.”

Sylvie is now nearly two and ready to “graduate” to drop-off classes, a new step that Lisa is excited about and confident Sylvie will thrive in. “She knows the classrooms, she knows Becky and the other teachers. It’s like stepping stones that set her up for success.”

As a full-time stay-at-home mom in a new city without friends, Lisa says, “The Y has helped me feel settled. It’s our landing spot—a place where I know I can always come, and Sylvie and I can find community.”

“The Y has helped me feel settled. It’s our landing spot—a place where I know I can always come, and Sylvie and I can find community.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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A Circle of Support

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

For the past 15 years, the YMCA has been woven into Kristin Bencivenga’s life—supporting her through motherhood, career changes, and most recently, a cancer diagnosis.

When Kristin and her family moved to Oconomowoc with their 18-month-old daughter, Mia, one of their first steps was joining the Y. What started with swim lessons and group fitness classes quickly became something much more. “It was our safe place. Our happy place,” she said. “And really, our lifeline.” Inside those walls, they found lasting friendships and a sense of belonging.

Mia later attended Sunshine School, and when Kristin’s sons, Asher and Griffin, came along, the Y was the obvious choice for childcare. As Kristin transitioned back to work, she had peace of mind knowing her boys were surrounded by familiar, caring faces.

Over the years, all three children played nearly every sport at the Y, attended camps, and now, as teens, enjoy lifting weights and shooting hoops. Kristin’s husband, Jim, coached countless teams, and Kristin’s mom—who moved in a few years ago—found connection through group fitness classes.

In March 2024, Kristin was on the planning committee for the Y’s Annual Campaign Auction & Dinner. While getting ready for the event, she found a lump in her breast. A few weeks later, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer.

And once again, the Y became her lifeline.

Bruce Osborn called often to check in and pray. Instructors and staff brought meals, headscarves, and unwavering encouragement. “I don’t know how people do cancer without a village—and the Y is very much a part of that village for me,” Kristin said.

During treatment, she missed coming to the Y—but the moment she was able, she returned. “I needed a pick-me-up. To see familiar faces, to be reminded that I could still do it—and that I was still me outside of cancer.”

Now finished with chemo, surgery, and radiation, Kristin is focused on healing. Her next goal is to rebuild strength with the help of a trainer at the Y—surrounded by the people who’ve walked with her through it all.

From her early days as a new mom to the hardest days of her life, Kristin says: “We are forever grateful for everything the Y has done for our family and for this entire community. It’s not just where you go to work out. It’s where you go to belong.”

"We are forever grateful for everything the Y has done for our family and for this entire community. It’s not just where you go to work out. It’s where you go to belong.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Finding Relief and Joy in Retirement

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

After Mike and his wife Gail retired last year, he was looking for something to do with his new found spare time. As they looked for ways to stay active and engaged, they stopped by the Y for a tour. Impressed by all that was offered, they decided to join.

For Mike, the goal was clear: he wanted to build a consistent exercise routine that he hoped would help with the back pain that had been getting progressively worse over the last decade. He turned to the EGYM circuit and now uses it three times a week, hoping to add in more days in the future.

Before starting at the Y, Mike’s back problems made activities—especially golf—difficult. “I had to take aspirin before, during, and after a round just to get through it,” he recalls. “Even then, it was never painless—just barely tolerable. All I could manage was golfing about once every other week.”

But after just a few weeks on the EGYM circuit, things began to change. “I only needed two aspirins before a round. After a month or so, I was golfing twice a week—pain-free,” Mike says. Yard work, once another painful chore, is now pain free too.

“It’s a new experience, going through life without constantly worrying about when I’ll next trigger back pain,” he shares. “Thanks to the Y, I’m finally experiencing retirement as it should be!”

“Thanks to the Y, I’m finally experiencing retirement as it should be!”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Determined and Thriving, Together

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Nancy first joined the Y in September 2022, encouraged by a friend to give it a try. She was used to getting her exercise through daily activities, so she was unsure if group exercise would be a good fit. “Exercise has always been important to me,” Nancy said, “but it used to come from my job and daily walks with my dog. I wasn’t sure group classes were my style.”

Determined to find what worked, Nancy explored classes focused on strength and flexibility—eventually landing on the right combination of BodyBalance, Core, BodyPump, and MX4. “After two and a half years of hard work, I feel great,” said Nancy, “I’m 71, but I can do it!” 

Nancy’s commitment hasn’t gone unnoticed. “She shows up every Wednesday morning at MX4 ready to work,” said instructor Jamie Meissner. “Nancy is the epitome of ‘age is just a number.’ She can do a full minute of decline push-ups and tackles every workout with determination. She’s setting herself up to stay strong, independent, and injury-free.” Nancy’s bone density has increased slightly, mainly due to increased exercise. This is a huge accomplishment, since osteoporosis increases the risk of fractures, as well as pain.

Nancy has also embraced the unexpected sense of community at the Y. “Even though I didn’t come here for the social aspect, I found it anyway. We get to know each other, and that makes us accountable. We know if we don’t show up, we are missed,” she said. “Because of the Y, I feel healthier and more confident. I can do this—because we all do it together.”

“Nancy is the epitome of ‘age is just a number.’ She can do a full minute of decline push-ups and tackles every workout with determination. She’s setting herself up to stay strong, independent, and injury-free.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Journey of Joy and Belonging

Posted on by Kate Haslar

When Miles was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder at age 4, his parents, Anthony and Maria, weren’t sure what the future would hold. But with support from their community and encouragement from staff at Summit Elementary, they discovered the YMCA’s Special Programs—and a new sense of hope.

Once 9 years old, Miles began Adaptive Aquatics, and swim lessons quickly became a weekly highlight. He looked forward to swimming with his instructor and seeing the familiar, friendly faces of the staff. Their warmth and encouragement inspired the family to explore more.

Next came Miracle League Baseball, a meaningful experience for the whole family. His younger siblings, grandparents, great-grandparents, and school friends gather to cheer him on. With his own walk-up song and fun facts read aloud, it’s a moment of pure joy. Katie Becker, Special Programs Coordinator, shared, “Miles has had a special place in my heart ever since his first season of Miracle League—his walk-up song was ‘God Save the Queen.’ I’ll never forget it.”

In spring 2024, Miles added Special Olympics Track to his routine. He loves throwing javelin, is improving in long jump, and thrives on the cheers at the end of each practice. Last year, he even advanced to the State Competition in Whitewater for mini-javelin.

“We wanted to channel his joy and energy into something that gave him purpose and a sense of belonging,” his mom shared. The programs have done just that.

One memorable moment came during track practice. When Miles got very close to a coach’s face—something he’s still learning about when it comes to personal space—the coach gently cupped his face and said, “Miles, you are beautiful.” It was a small gesture, but one his mom says she’ll never forget—a reflection of how much the staff genuinely love what they do.

Special Programs have become part of the rhythm of family life. His younger brother and sister also take part in other Y activities. “We love that all our children can cheer on and support each other!” Maria said. “Our participation in the Y has taught our children to embrace differences, never give up, and that everyone has a place in this world.”

His parents add, “Because of the Y, we found more than just activities; we found community and family. Miles is embraced for who he is, encouraged to meet his highest potential, and our whole family gets to grow, connect, and belong.”

“Because of the Y, we found more than just activities; we found community and family. Miles is embraced for who he is, encouraged to meet his highest potential, and our whole family gets to grow, connect, and belong.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Working Out Together

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar
For nearly seven years, Taylor and Cora have shared a special bond—one that began when their husbands served together in the Marines. When military life came to an end, their friendship grew even stronger, helping both of them adjust to a new lifestyle. Before they had children, the two often worked out together, and that tradition carried on after becoming moms.
 
About three years ago, Taylor and Cora joined the Y through the 20/20 Member Referral Program. “Having a friend to go with helps keep us accountable,” Taylor says. “It also gives us the social connection we need as stay-at-home moms.”
 
The welcoming atmosphere at the Watertown YMCA is a big part of what keeps them coming back. “The staff treat my kids like family,” Taylor explains. Cora agrees, noting, “There’s always someone greeting you at the door, and everyone knows our kids by name.” The staff who watch their children have become their friends too, making each visit feel like part of a bigger community.
 
A big part of their ability to keep a steady routine comes from Kids’ Corner. Consistent hours and caring staff give them the time to focus on themselves for an hour a day while knowing their children are having fun and making friends of their own.
 
When asked what they’d tell someone considering joining the Y, they’re quick to encourage it. “There is truly something for everyone,” says Cora. “We’ve been so lucky with the staff and the support this Y has given us,” adds Taylor.

“We’ve been so lucky with the staff and the support this Y has given us”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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