For the Max family, the YMCA at Gothenburg Health is more than a building—it’s a daily part of life, a place where health, family time, and community come together. After eight years of active membership, the Y has become woven into their family story. Whether they’re playing sports, swimming, attending summer camps, or getting in
The Max Family: Growing Stronger Together Read More »
From early mornings to late afternoons, the steady rhythm of the NuSteps fills the wellness center at the Don Sjogren Community YMCA. From seniors recovering after surgery to individuals rebuilding strength and mobility, these low-impact cardio machines are a favorite among members of all ages. For member Manuel Aldama, the NuStep has become more than
Moving Forward: How the NuStep Helps Members of All Abilities Stay Active Read More »
When members walk into a YMCA Group Exercise class, they expect to move their bodies. What they don’t expect is the friendship, encouragement, and confidence they’ll discover along the way. Free for members, Group Ex classes—whether cycling, yoga, Zumba, HIIT, or strength training—are about so much more than just burning calories. They are about connection,
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For many teens, hitting the gym is about building strength. For Kohen Jonas, it’s also about building courage and confidence—because every workout is shaped by the reality of living with a heart condition. As an active 13-year-old, Kohen enjoys fishing, hunting, playing catch, football, and cross country. But born with a heart condition called a
Heart, Strength, and Confidence: Kohen’s YMCA Story Read More »
At the heart of the Don Sjogren Community YMCA in Holdrege is a pool that is more than a place to exercise; it’s a place where friendships form, fears fade, and strength is built from the inside out. Through the YMCA Water Wake Up class, Connie Jacobson has been a beacon of transformation, guiding her
Friendship, Fitness, and Healing in the Water Wake Up Class Read More »
Since the Orthman Community YMCA opened its doors in October 2014, it has been a symbol of health, community, and personal growth for many, including long-time members Darrell and Sally Leu. Their story is a testament to the significant influence of the YMCA, which has become an integral part of their daily lives. THE JOURNEY
EMBRACING WELLNESS AND COMMUNITY – The Leu’s Journey at the YMCA Read More »
To know Sandy Hock was to be inspired by her friendly energy, her passion, and her sense of joy. Whether in the classroom, the pool, or at the bridge table, Sandy approached life with enthusiasm and a deep sense of purpose. As a Family and Consumer Science teacher, Sandy shaped young lives and was passionate
Sandy Hock– A Life of Dedication, Joy, and Ripples That Remain Read More »
A New Kind of Camp On Thursday mornings this summer, the Holdrege YMCA is filled with sounds of laughter, encouragement, and something quietly remarkable—kids with varying abilities jumping into the fun of summer camp. They’re baking cookies, swimming, crafting, and playing balloon pickleball. Some use wheelchairs. Some are nonverbal. All of them are part of
No Limits, Just Possibilities: The Holdrege YMCA’s First Adaptive Summer Camp Read More »
If you stop by the YMCA on a weekday morning, you’ll likely see two familiar faces on the indoor track — Robert Bogart and Chris Smith, walking side by side. For them, the Y is more than a place to work out — it’s where health, friendship, and community come together. Starting with a Goal Robert had been
Walking With Purpose: Robert & Chris’s YMCA Journey Read More »
For Jill Boyd, the YMCA is more than just a gym—it’s a lifeline for health, healing, and connection. Since joining the Y with her husband, David, in 2014, Jill has discovered a supportive community that feels like home. Overcoming challenges from back surgery and a knee replacement, she found strength in the Y’s pool, where she rebuilds her mobility and connects with others. Jill encourages everyone to join the Y, not just for fitness, but for the overwhelming sense of belonging it provides. Discover how the YMCA has transformed her life and can do the same for you!
Y MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: JILL’S STORY Read More »