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Celebrating Leadership and Potential: YMCA Leadership Academy Graduation

Posted on by Shonna Moon

Celebrating Leadership and Potential: YMCA Leadership Academy Graduation

At the YMCA, we believe in nurturing the potential of every individual, and nothing showcases this commitment more than our participation in the YMCA Leadership Academy. We are proud to celebrate the graduation of our Toledo representatives, Crystal Tollstam and Dave Klepaski, who exemplified what it means to lead with heart, purpose, and impact.

Congratulations, Crystal and Dave!

Both Crystal and Dave dedicated themselves to growing as leaders—embracing the Y’s mission of strengthening community through inclusion, collaboration, and innovation. Their hard work, thoughtfulness, and commitment to learning are an inspiration to all of us.

A Rising Star Among Us

We are especially excited to share that Dave was honored with the Rising Star Award. This prestigious recognition celebrates one participant from each cohort who personifies the leadership qualities and values championed by Dennis Ruble—a longtime Ohio YMCA professional and visionary leader within the movement.

In the spirit of the Dennis Ruble Memorial Fund, this award is given to those who lead with integrity, inspire others, and embrace opportunities for growth and transformation. Dave’s selection is a testament to his character, dedication, and the bright future he represents for the YMCA.

Looking Ahead

Leadership Academy is more than a program—it’s a catalyst for meaningful change. As we celebrate this milestone, we reaffirm our commitment to fostering leadership development, not only within our Y but across the entire movement.

Please join us in congratulating Crystal and Dave for their achievement—and especially Dave for being named this year’s Rising Star!

Together, we grow stronger.

Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership: Lisa Hawker Named YMCA Volunteer of the Year

Posted on by Shonna Moon

Celebrating a Legacy of Leadership: Lisa Hawker Named YMCA Volunteer of the Year

Toledo, OH – March 24, 2025 — At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe strong communities are built by passionate leaders—those who give of themselves, lift others up, and help create lasting change. This year, we are proud to recognize one of those changemakers.

Lisa Hawker, our current Board Chair and longtime advocate for the Y, has been named the YMCA Volunteer of the Year, a distinguished national honor that recognizes individuals who exemplify our mission and transform their communities through service.

With more than 26 years of unwavering dedication, Lisa’s leadership has helped shape the YMCA we know today—one grounded in our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, and committed to building a better future for all.

“Lisa Hawker embodies the heart of the YMCA,” said Brad Toft, President/CEO of the YMCA of Greater Toledo. “Her service is more than a contribution—it’s a legacy. Lisa has helped shape a more inclusive, sustainable, and impactful YMCA for today and for generations to come.”

A Visionary Leader and Lifelong Y Advocate

Throughout her decades of service, Lisa has held nearly every leadership position within our governance structure. Her most recent impact? Leading a transformative governance restructure, ensuring our Y is stronger, more adaptable, and prepared for long-term success—especially during our 160th anniversary year.

Lisa’s connection to the Y is deeply personal. Her children grew up in Y programs, and her passion is rooted in lived experience. She is a vocal ambassador, a mentor to many, and a community connector who continually steps up, speaks out, and shows up—for our youth, our families, and our mission.

From attending community events to mentoring emerging leaders and rallying support for key initiatives, Lisa leads with heart. Her authenticity and commitment have inspired others to engage, give back, and grow with the YMCA.

Honoring a Legacy That Builds a Better Us

This award is more than a recognition of service. It’s a celebration of the countless lives Lisa has touched—and a reminder of the power of volunteerism, vision, and values-driven leadership.

Please join us in celebrating Lisa’s incredible legacy. Her story is a reminder that when one person leads with purpose, an entire community can thrive.

Want to get involved like Lisa?
 Discover how you can serve, give, or connect with the YMCA of Greater Toledo. Together, we can keep building a better us.

👉 Learn More About Volunteering at the Y

Making Waves of Change: Free Swim Lessons for Toledo’s 2nd Graders

Posted on by Shonna Moon

Making Waves of Change: Free Swim Lessons for Toledo’s 2nd Graders

At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to be safe in and around water. That’s why, in partnership with ProMedica, TPS Foundation, Cenovus Energy, Toledo Refining Company, and Mercy Health, we’ve launched a lifesaving initiative to provide free swim lessons to second graders in Toledo Public Schools on the East Side.

This program was created in honor of a TPS student who tragically drowned in Lake Superior last summer. His legacy now lives on through this initiative, ensuring young students gain the confidence and critical water safety skills they need.

Why This Matters
Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death for children, and access to swim lessons can make a life-changing difference. Through this program, second graders are not only learning to swim—they’re gaining a lifelong skill that fosters confidence, safety, and fun.

Community Impact
Thanks to the generous support of our partners, this program is making waves in our community. Parents, teachers, and students have shared heartfelt stories about how these lessons are empowering kids to overcome fear, embrace new challenges, and most importantly—stay safe. 

Together, we’re building a community where every child has the chance to be safe, strong, and confident in the water.

#WaterSafety #YMCAImpact #StrongerTogether

Governor Mike DeWine Visits YMCA Child Development Center at Owens Community College

Posted on by Shonna Moon

Governor Mike DeWine Visits YMCA Child Development Center at Owens Community College

Supporting Ohio Families with Quality, Affordable Child Care

February 4, 2025, we were honored to welcome Governor Mike DeWine to the YMCA Child Development Center at Owens Community College as he highlighted the importance of affordable, high-quality child care for Ohio families. His visit reinforced the vital role that early childhood education plays in shaping the future of our children and strengthening our communities.

During his time at the center, Governor DeWine met with staff and young learners, gaining firsthand insight into the impact of safe, nurturing, and enriching child care environments like the YMCA provides. He acknowledged the need for accessible early education and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting Ohio families in finding affordable, high-quality care options.

The YMCA: A Trusted Partner in Early Learning

At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe that every child deserves a strong start in life. Our early childhood programs not only provide a safe and engaging space for children to learn and grow, but they also offer families the peace of mind that their children are receiving top-tier education and care.

The YMCA of Greater Toledo is dedicated to serving families by:
✅ Offering affordable child care solutions
✅ Providing high-quality early learning experiences
✅ Supporting working parents with flexible care options
✅ Creating a nurturing environment where children thrive

A Stronger Future Starts Here

Governor DeWine’s visit to the YMCA Child Development Center is a testament to the impact and importance of investing in early childhood education. Together, we are committed to building a stronger foundation for our children, families, and communities.

💙 Join us in shaping the future! Learn more about YMCA child care programs and how we’re making a difference, click here.

📍 Find a YMCA Child Development Center near you: click here

A Generous Gift: Eidi Properties Donates $50,000 to the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA

Posted on by Shonna Moon

A Generous Gift: Eidi Properties Donates $50,000 to the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA

At the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we believe in the power of community—coming together to lift one another, to provide opportunities, and to create a lasting impact that spans generations. Today, we are honored and grateful to recognize an incredible act of generosity from Eidi Properties, whose unwavering commitment to strengthening communities shines through in their remarkable $50,000 donation to the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA.

This heartfelt contribution is more than just a gift; it’s an investment in the future of the Greater Toledo community. With these funds, we continue our mission of providing access to wellness programs, youth development opportunities, and a welcoming space where individuals and families can thrive.

**“It is an incredible honor and privilege to represent our family office in delivering this $50,000 check to the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA.

We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to support an organization that tirelessly strengthens communities and empowers individuals to lead healthier, happier lives. This contribution reflects our commitment to giving back and partnering with those who share our vision of creating meaningful and lasting impact. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the YMCA team for their unwavering dedication, and we are humbled to play a small part in advancing their vital mission.”**

— Eidi Properties

This generous donation will directly support the work we do every day—helping children build confidence through swim lessons, providing teens with a safe space to grow, and ensuring families have access to health and wellness resources. It fuels our commitment to making the YMCA a place where everyone belongs, regardless of their background or financial circumstances.

From all of us at the YMCA of Greater Toledo, we extend our deepest gratitude to Eidi Properties for their generosity and belief in our mission. Your support is changing lives, strengthening communities, and building a brighter future for all.

Want to join us in making an impact? Learn more about how you can support the Wayman D. Palmer Community YMCA and help us continue the vital work of serving our community. Visit [YMCA Website/Donation Link].

Together, we are building a stronger, healthier, and more connected Toledo.

#StrongerTogether #ChangingLives #WaymanDPalmerYMCA #EidiProperties #CommunityImpact

5 Action Steps for Helping Someone in Emotional Pain

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

Suicide is a major public health concern and a leading cause of death in the United States, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). However, knowing the warning signs for suicide and knowing how to get help can help save a life.

In honor of Suicide Prevention Month in September, the YMCA of Greater Toledo is encouraging community members to care for themselves and others. Here are 5 action steps from the NIMH for helping someone in emotional pain.

ASK

“Are you thinking about killing yourself?” It’s not an easy question but studies show that asking at-risk individuals if they are suicidal does not increase suicides or suicidal thoughts.

KEEP THEM SAFE

Reducing a suicidal person’s access to highly lethal items or places is an important part of suicide prevention. While this is not always easy, asking if the at-risk person has a plan and removing or disabling the lethal means can make a difference.

BE THERE

Listen carefully and learn what the individual is thinking and feeling. Research suggests acknowledging and talking about suicide may in fact reduce rather than increase suicidal thoughts.

HELP THEM CONNECT

Save the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number (call or text 988) and the Crisis Text Line number (741741) in your phone so they’re there if you need them. You can also help make a connection with a trusted individual like a family member, friend, spiritual advisor, or mental health professional.

STAY CONNECTED

Staying in touch after a crisis or after being discharged from care can make a difference. Studies have shown the number of suicide deaths goes down when someone follows up with the at-risk person.

Learn more about suicide prevention at nimh.nih.gov 

Upcoming Lifeguard Training

Posted on Updated on by Rosalyn Whickum

Lifeguard & Training

Upcoming Training Dates

No Classes Currently Available

 Do you enjoy people and helping to keep them safe? Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively affects the lives of the people in your community. Working at the Y, you’ll discover more than a job – you’ll enjoy a career with a future and the opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of those around you.

Apply Now

2024 Weight Loss Challenge

Posted on by Rosalyn Whickum

ARE YOU READY FOR THE CHALLENEGE?

Sign Up Today!

Are you looking to make a positive change in your life and achieve your fitness goals? Look no further than the YMCA’s 2024 Weight Loss Challenge! This 8-week challenge is designed to help individuals of all fitness levels take the necessary steps toward a healthier lifestyle while providing a safe, motivating, and supportive environment. Here are seven reasons why you should sign up for the challenge today:

1. A SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY

At the YMCA, we are dedicated to creating spaces where everyone can feel welcome, belong, and become their best selves. Our weight loss challenge is no exception, as you’ll be surrounded by a community of supportive individuals who are all working towards the same goal.

2 . EXPERT GUIDANCE

Our experienced wellness staff will be with you every step of the way, providing expert guidance on exercise, nutrition, and healthy lifestyle changes. You’ll have access to personalized coaching and support to help you achieve your goals.

3. A SAFE ENVIRONMENT

Safety is a top priority at the YMCA, and you can feel confident that our weight loss challenge is designed with your safety in mind. Our instructors will ensure that you are using proper form and technique during exercises to prevent injury.

4. MOTIVATION

It can be difficult to stay motivated when working towards a fitness goal, but the YMCA’s weight loss challenge provides the perfect environment to stay motivated and on track. You’ll have the support of your fellow participants, as well as the encouragement of our experienced instructors.

5. ACCOUNTABILITY

Accountability is key to achieving your fitness goals, and the YMCA’s weight loss challenge provides just that. You’ll be held accountable for your progress and encouraged to make healthy choices every step of the way.

6. FUN

Fitness should be enjoyable, and our weight loss challenge is designed to make working out fun! With various exercises and activities, you’ll never get bored and will be motivated to keep coming back for more.

7. PRIZES

Who doesn’t love prizes? The top five winners of the weight loss challenge across the association will receive a gift card, providing extra motivation to work hard and achieve their goals.

Don’t wait any longer to start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Sign up for the YMCA’s 2024 Weight Loss Challenge today and experience the benefits of a supportive community, expert guidance, and a safe and motivating environment.

Sign Up Today!