Category: Personal Y Stories

Unlocking Potential

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Kathy, Programs Director, has seen firsthand how the right support and environment can unlock someone’s potential. One example of that impact is Gabe, a participant in the Service Without Boundaries program, a YMCA initiative centered on service and skill-building for young adults with disabilities. Gabe, who is on the autism spectrum, has shown meaningful growth through the experience.

When he first joined, there was understandable hesitation. A new setting, unfamiliar people, and shifting routines can be challenging. But with consistency, structure, and encouragement, he gradually began to find his footing.

“What’s especially striking is seeing his strengths come forward,” Kathy observes. “He really brings strong attention to detail, reliability, and a genuine commitment to doing things well.” Whether organizing materials, supporting community service projects, or assisting peers, he approaches each responsibility with pride. The team has noticed that when expectations are clear and routines are predictable, he doesn’t just meet them—he often exceeds them.

There has also been meaningful growth socially. While communication may not always look traditional, Gabe has built connections in his own way—through shared activities, humor, and a desire to help others. Other participants have come to appreciate his unique perspective and helpfulness, which has helped naturally strengthen his sense of belonging within the group.

Gabe’s grandma has seen those changes firsthand. “Gabe has been much happier since joining the program. He’s made new friends, is better at working in a group, and always looks forward to the day.”

Gabe’s experience is a reminder that with consistency, support, and belonging, individuals on the autism spectrum can be supported to grow and succeed in their own way.

“Gabe has been much happier since joining the program. He’s made new friends, is better at working in a group, and always looks forward to the day.”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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A Gift for the Whole Family

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar

Val first came to the YMCA when a friend invited her with a guest pass. After a tour and trying out several workout areas, she was hooked. Just two days later, she brought her family—her husband Nate and their children Josie and Wesley—back to sign up, and the Y quickly became part of their routine.

“I hadn’t been a member of a gym for about 7 years and tried to stay active on my own, but I didn’t realize how much I missed people!” Val says. She enjoys the variety of group fitness classes. “TRX, Core, Strength Development, and BodyBalance challenge me in ways I wouldn’t push myself on my own,” she adds. Nate, who hadn’t been in a regular workout routine before joining the Y, has started getting active too, fitting in workouts alongside the family.

The family loves playing basketball, volleyball, pickleball, and running on the track. Wesley has gotten hours of extra practice shooting baskets and even enjoys beating Val in a sprint race, while Josie enjoys volleyball and sometimes joins her mom on the cardio equipment. Because the kids are old enough to be in the gym or lounge on their own, Val and Nate can fit in workouts together—a routine they hadn’t had in a long time. After a tough workout, relaxing in the massage chairs at the Ehlinger Center has become a special treat.

Homeschooling gives the family flexibility, and the Y fits easily into their schedule. Often, the Y even motivates the family to finish lessons because they all enjoy coming so much. The welcoming community has also been a highlight. Older members cheer on the kids, give tips, and staff join in games. “The Y has quickly become like extended family to us, which has nourished our social, emotional, and physical health,” Val says.

Because of the Y, winter didn’t feel as long for their family. “I knew I’d like the Y for fitness, but I didn’t realize it would be such a gift to my children, my marriage, and our whole family,” Val reflects.

"I knew I’d like the Y for fitness, but I didn’t realize it would be such a gift to my children, my marriage, and our whole family"

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Building Bright Moments, Together

Posted on Updated on by Kate Haslar
Our recent YMCA at Pabst Farms 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 area.
 
This video was shown the night of the auction and highlights just one example of our mission in action… check it out!

The Power of Consistency

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Eric’s wife, Judy, had been coming to the Y before he retired in January 2025. She often talked about the energy and “vibe” at the Y—how different it felt compared to any other fitness place she had tried. Eric says that a big part of that welcoming atmosphere is Angie, a wellness coach who makes everyone feel supported and motivated.

When Eric started coming to the Y in February 2025, his goal was to improve his health and build his strength. Since then, he has lost over 40 pounds and two inches from his waist. His strength has grown tremendously, and while he’s still working on his endurance, the progress he’s made keeps him motivated.

The Y has also changed the way Eric thinks about workouts. Even on days when it would be easy to skip, he and Judy make it a point to come in, even for a short 30-minute session. “Doing something is always better than doing nothing,” he notes.

For Angie, watching Eric’s progress has been especially meaningful. “Getting to see Eric and his wife build up the most important muscle for success—consistency—has been so rewarding,” she shares. “I love being there to make sure he has the tools he needs and to encourage him along the way.”

Because of the Y, Eric’s fitness has improved, and he feels encouraged and supported by the staff and the people he meets.

“Doing something is always better than doing nothing”

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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Partnering with the Y for Cycling Success

Posted on by Kate Haslar

Born in Brazil and having lived in Germany, Gabriela Guerra moved to Wisconsin in 2022 after marriage and while recovering from major action-sports injuries. She found a home at the YMCA at Pabst Farms, where her husband Nathan Guerra and his family—the Steinkes—have long been members and supporters.

Training at the YMCA helped Gabriela rebuild and grow into a professional cycling-esports athlete, now a two-time UCI Vice World Champion. Although she loves mountain biking and road cycling, Gabriela chose to focus on esports cycling, drawn by the ability to train safely, target specific goals, and compete without long travel—while earning prize money to make a living.

At the Y, Gabriela’s training is intentional and focused. She warms up with stair sprints, moves into strength routines with leg presses, trap bars, step-ups, and box jumps, and finishes with sauna recovery. “Every session is about concentration, awareness, and building power,” she says, fully committing to each minute to maximize strength, agility, and recovery.

She also enjoys seeing her stepkids staying active and appreciates being able to work out alongside her husband. Gabriela values the YMCA’s convenient facilities—from showers and water stations to the sauna and relaxing corners—which make it easy to stay consistent with her training.

“The YMCA doesn’t just provide equipment or facilities; it creates a supportive, inclusive community that meets people wherever they are in their fitness journey,” Gabriela says. “The staff and programs encourage growth, confidence, and consistency, whether someone is just starting out or training at a higher level. I also appreciate the YMCA’s core Christian values, which show up in the way people treat each other—with respect, encouragement, and a genuine desire to help everyone succeed. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved, find support, and build healthy habits, which makes the YMCA a powerful partner for anyone pursuing personal fitness goals.”

"The YMCA doesn’t just provide equipment or facilities; it creates a supportive, inclusive community that meets people wherever they are in their fitness journey"

We’d love to hear your Y story!

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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 Updated 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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