Backyard Bash at the Barn Trick or Treat on the Trails
Host your special event at the Y
Camp Happenings
Mini Camps Big Memories
Kids ROARSponsors
Camp Snaps
Personal Items Drive for Campers
Share t he Good St uff
Backyard Bash at the Barn Sponsors
Community Champions
2025 HCRRSpirit Award Winners
A Final Not e...
Taste the Season
National Voter Registration Day
Voices fromCamp Turkey Trot Countdown Begins!
Welcoming a New Season of Discovery
As the vibrant energy of summer camp winds down, Sherman Lake YMCA is gearing up for fall - and the return of schools for our Integrated Education (IE) program. This one-of-a-kind, national award-winning experience brings thousands of students from public schools across the region to Sherman Lake YMCA each year for hands-on learning, community-building, and character development It?s a meaningful bridge between seasons, where curiosity continues to grow and friendships blossomin the crisp fall air
What makes IEso special is who it serves - students fromall walks of life, cultures, and communities Rooted in our commitment to equity and belonging, this programoffers young people a rare and valuable opportunity to unplug fromphones, tablets, and TV screens and reconnect with the world around them. Through shared experiences, outdoor adventures, and face-to-face relationship building, students learn to listen, collaborate, and grow together in ways that can? t be replicated in a classroomor online
Guided by our four core values of honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility ? or what we call ?HCRR?- the Integrated Education programhelps students build character that lasts well beyond their time at camp Whether through songs around the campfire or teamchallenges in the woods, each moment helps shape compassionate, resilient leaders of tomorrow. We are honored to walk alongside themon this journey and grateful for the schools, families, and supporters who make it all possible
Zach Klipsch, CEO
FAMILY. FITNESS. FUN.
FALL INTO FITNESS
Fall Membership Special
Embrace A New Challenge! 8-Week Les Mills BodyPump® Class
Jumpstart your Wednesday mornings with our new BODYPUMP® series, led by Sue Huggett!
BODYPUMP® features light weights and high reps set to powerful music that keeps you moving. You?ll target every major muscle group with squats, presses, lifts, and curls - helping you build lean muscle, improve endurance, and burn fat.
Classes begin Wednesday, October 1 at 6:15am.
GROUP FITNESS SCHEDULE
This September, we?re giving you every reason to embrace this season of change - with 10?100% off your Joiner Fee when you join the Sherman Lake YMCA during our Fall Into Fitness promotion!
Autumn is the perfect time to reset your routine, and the Yis here to support you during every step of your wellness journey with:
- Aqua or land group fitness classes
- Lap & Family Swim
- Member hiking and walking trails
- Free childcare while you work out
- Gymnasiumwith open basketball, volleyball, and pickleball!
FALL MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL
Make A Difference:
Volunt eer at t he Y!
Join our community of change makers by volunteering at Sherman Lake YMCA! Whether you're cheering on young athletes at Kids ROARor bringing Halloween magic to life at Trick or Treat on the Trails, your time and energy help create unforgettable experiences. Volunteering is a great way to give back, connect with others, and be part of something truly meaningful
CALLINGALL BOOK LOVERS!
Looking to connect with fellow readers and spark meaningful conversations? The Off the Shelf Book Club is the perfect place to dive into great stories, share diverse perspectives, and build community through the love of reading. Come for the booksstay for the friendship. Everyone is welcome!
Fall 2025 Reading List:
9/29 - The Measure by Nikki Erlick
10/27 - The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman 11/24 - James by Percival Everett
The Off the Shelf Book Club meets in the Markham Roomon the last Monday of the month at 11:00am.
For more information, please contact Tammy Payne at tlpayne66@yahoo.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
Are you ready t o ROAR?
Sunday, September 14 |12:00pm
Kids ROARis a Rogue Obstacle Adventure Race featuring mud pits, water, color, obstacles, monkey bars and so much more!
Kids ROARis for kids ages 5-14 but parents are welcome to join in on the fun! REGISTER!
Host Somet hing Ext raordinary at Sherman Lake YMCA
Looking for the perfect venue for your next special occasion? Sherman Lake YMCA offers a variety of beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces ideal for weddings, family reunions, corporate retreats and more.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of our scenic grounds and equipped with modern amenities, our spaces are designed to bring people together. Whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, we have everything you need to make it unforgettable LEARN MORE
Backyard Bash at t he Barn
Saturday, September 27 6:00pm- 9:00pm
Join us at Sherman Lake YMCA as we re-kindle the spirit of community with good food, great company and the perfect early-fall vibe!
Tickets are $25 each and include:
- Dinner fromlocal food trucks
- Two drink tickets (21+ event)
- Live entertainment
- Campfires, s'mores and more!
PURCHASETICKETS | SPONSOR THEEVENT
Calling all boos, ghouls, and lit t le monst ers!
Friday, October 24 |5:30pm
Join us for a night of frightfully fun festivities as you wind your way through our Trick or Treat Trail on the grounds of Sherman Lake YMCA Be sure to bring a bag or bucket to collect your treats!
- Trick or Treating along the trail
- Costume Contest for all ages
- Fresh cider and donuts
- Games, crafts, and more!
This is a FREEevent but registration is required Space is limited, so reserve your spot early for a spooktacularly good time!
PURCHASETICKETS | SPONSOR THEEVENT
TOGETHER WE CAN MAKEA DIFFERENCE
PERSONAL ITEMS DRIVEFOR CAMPERS
While a donation of a comb or toothpaste may seemsmall, the impact of these simple items is powerful. Feeling clean and cared for builds confidence, dignity, and joy - especially for kids away at camp
We're collecting new personal toiletry items to support campers in need. Your donation ensures every child can fully enjoy their camp experience, feeling their best inside and out.
Suggested items:
- Travel size toothpaste
- Travel size deodorant
- Comb/hairbrush
- Socks and underwear (for 5/6 graders)
Donations may be dropped off at the front desk of the Rec Center
Mini Camps. Big Memories.
October 4-5 or November 8-9, 2025
Camp isn't just for the summer! Join us for classic camp activities along with some creative seasonal twists! The perfect camp for campers who miss camp and those interested in testing the waters of overnight camp!
Ages: 1st-8th grades
Cost: $130*
* Financial assistance is available
Thanks t o our 2025 Kids ROAR Sponsors!
SHARETHEGOOD STUFF
Legend Wall Updat e
The Legend Wall honors campers who?ve spent five unforgettable summers at Sherman Lake YMCA Camp
We?ve just restored the signs from1999 through 2012, bringing back their original shine so every name stands out with pride. And yes - there?s a space waiting for our 2025 legends!
Each fifth-year camper is celebrated at a closing campfire ceremony, where they receive a special HCRRLegend bandana. This tradition recognizes not just their years at camp, but the HCRRcharacter they?ve shown, the lifelong friendships they?ve built, and the milestones they?ve achieved
Next time you're near the Performance Shell, stop by the Legend Wall. See if you can find your nameor a friend?s - and take a moment to reflect on the incredible community we've built together
Communit y Champions: Honoring Our Generous Supporters
Make A Difference:
Volunt eer at t he Y!
Join our community of change makers by volunteering at Sherman Lake YMCA! Whether you're cheering on young athletes at Kids ROAR, bringing Halloween magic to life at Trick or Treat on the Trails, or supporting runners at the Turkey Trot, your time and energy help create unforgettable experiences Volunteering is a great way to give back, connect with others, and be part of something truly meaningful
Upcoming opportunities:
- Kids ROAR
Sunday, September 14, 2025
- Trick or Treat on theTrails
Friday, October 24, 2025
- Sherman LakeYMCATurkey Trot
Thursday, November 27, 2025
Congrat ulat ions t o our 2025 HCRR Spirit Award Recipient s!
We?re thrilled to celebrate this summer?s HCRRSpirit Award winners: Juancho, Char, and Alexa! Chosen by their fellow camp staff, these incredible individuals truly embodied the heart of Sherman Lake YMCA - bringing connection, joy, and community to life for thousands of campers
Their passion and dedication were an inspiration to all, and we?re beyond grateful for the energy and spirit they shared this summer. Way to go!
Every day, incredible individuals and organizations step up to support the Yand strengthen our community? and while there are too many to name all at once, we?re excited to shine a spotlight on a few each month. Please join us in extending our heartfelt thanks to these recent generous donors who help make our mission possible:
Shauna Baechle ? Barbara & Randall Haglund
Jennifer & Nate Heymoss ? Kamila Kolassa
Dave & Sonya Labrecque ? Robert & Kay O'Boyle
Brittany & AdamRies ? Alison & Scott See Jenna Spalding-Lichterman ? Kathleen Vaughn
Amanda Wetterman ? Douglas & Sue Worgess
Your generosit y is t he heart beat of our mission - t hank you for making a difference.
Thanks Backyard Bash at t he Barn Sponsors!
BRONZESPONSORS
Warner Norcross + Judd LLP
ELITECompanies
SILVER SPONSORS
Kalamazoo Community Foundation
Harding's Friendly Markets - Richland
A FINAL NOTE...
TastetheSeason
Grapes, broccoli, sugar peas, raspberries, and spinach are all in season right now!
Cook up something delicious with Michigan-grown produce - click below to try one of these healthy recipes today!
Healthy Raspberry Muffins
Sugar Snap Pea & Berry Salad
VIEW RECIPES
Voices fromCamp
Dear Anna,
I had a great time when you were my counselor. Since it was my first time you really helped me fit in and get along with the other girls. I hope you are my counselor next year
XOXOLove, Amelia
National Voter Registration Day
Sept ember 16, 2025
The Count down Begins!
Sherman Lake YMCA Turkey Trot
Thursday, November 27 |9:00am
Lace up your sneakers and join us Thanksgiving morning for the 2nd annual Sherman Lake YMCA Turkey Trot - a joyful celebration of community, gratitude, and giving back!
