MAY 2026
AT THE MID-WILLAMETTE FAMILY YMCA
REMINDER: THE YMCA WILL BE CLOSED MONDAY, MAY 25 FOR MEMORIAL DAY
Y STORIES: TINO BARRERAS
For YMCA Chief Program Officer Tino Barreras, the path to a career in nonprofit work began with a part-time job at the Boys & Girls Club of Albany.
Barreras has worked at our YMCA since 2021 and oversees our programs, services, grant management, and events. Raised in Albany, he attended West Albany High School before attending Oregon State University.
“Like every kid growing up in Albany, I came to the Y at one point or another,” Barreras said. “Many people have spent time at the Y because they’ve played a sport, or have come to shoot hoops and get in the pool. So, growing up, I would play quite a bit of basketball noon hoops during breaks and during summertime.”
Y Stories: Tino Barreras Page 1-5
Albany Community Carnival & Great Platypus Drop: Enter to Win! Page 6
Albany Community Carnival & Line Dancing Class Page 7
Youth Painting Workshop & Spring Craft & Play Page 8
Mother’s Day Brunch & Middle School Dance Page 9
Ken Davis Golf Classic & 7v7 Adult Soccer Page 10
YMCA Summer Camp & YMCA Preschools Page 11
World Rhythms Hand Drum Circle & Adult Volleyball Page 12
OverFlow Performance & Volleyball Academy Page 13
Spring Fitness & Pool Schedules Page 14
in my opinion, was to get some more ho Barreras said. “So I approached their pro director at the time and said, ‘Hey, I’d lo work with the kids. I’ve worked camps an like that for basketball, and I’d like to do And they gave me an interview.”
He said that, during the interview, he to his dad was sick, and he expressed what was going through. He ended up getting job, serving as the organization’s Direct Teen Services before becoming the Elem Club Director in later years.
“I talked about the fact that a lot of kids are going through the same thing, and a lot of kids have it worse than me, because they’re five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten years old. They’re having a lot of the same stress that I had at 18. And they’re having to navigate it as kids,” Barreras said. “So that’s what I said in the interview. Just because you look a certain way or act a certain way, a lot of times that’s a product of your environment. And I want to be there for the kids, and to show them that they’re not alone.”
Consequently, throughout his early adulthood, the Boys & Girls Club became Barreras’ home away from home and a source of support during a difficult time. His dad got progressively sick, and when he passed, Barreras still went to work that day.
“Everyone was like, ‘You have to go home. Don’t be here.’ And I just said, I can’t, I don’t want to go home. Like, this is my home. I want to be here. I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t come to work today. I need to be here for the kids, and I need to be here for myself,” Barreras said.
During his years at the club, Barreras fell in love with youth development. He started working with older teens, helping them on the path to college and post-secondary success. He helped start up a class called T3—Training
Teens for Tomorrow when he was about 23, just out of college. The class focused on college and job readiness, including help with FAFSA, resume building, and interview prep. He also worked with Linn-Benton Community College to authorize the curriculum and provide college credit to students.
When he was in his late twenties, he was encouraged by one of the organization's major donors to make a career change.
“He told me, ‘Tino, I like you. Good people—in five years at a job, they either move up, or move out.’ At that time, I had been working at the Club in a management role for about five years, ” Barreras said.
Serendipitously, he was encouraged to apply for a job at Republic Services by Julie Jackson, a present-day YMCA board member, after giving a grant presentation for the Boys & Girls Club at United Way. He got the job. But the reality of that work, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, felt disconnected from what he valued most: collaboration and working for a cause. That realization ultimately led him back to nonprofit work and a job at our YMCA.
Now, one of Barreras’ main responsibilities is overseeing our YMCA’s programs, which includes developing new programming to meet the community’s needs. He also oversees several departments, including Aquatics, Sports, Fitness, Resource Development, and Marketing. In his role, Barreras aims to analyze the YMCA’s programming holistically, ensuring programs are inclusive and accessible to all.
“In my role, I ask myself many questions. Like, we have a lot of sports what age groups are we hitting? Are we really a place for all? Do our programs cater more towards boys than girls? Do our programs cater to younger people more than older people? Are we just offering sports, and no other programs?” Barreras said. “We want to be a place for everybody. That’s why we continuously open our doors and are looking for opportunities, actively looking for opportunities to partner with like organizations, or organizations that do things differently than we do. Maybe they have a specialty, and we have the facility and the platform to make that program happen.”
Barreras pointed to examples of this, including a brand-new Youth Acrylic Painting Workshop this May, in which the YMCA has partnered with a local traveling art company called We Make Art. Our YMCA also recently introduced a free chess club for all ages.
the Y, and I beat a grown-up at chess. On the other hand, I think the older generation gets the sense of giving back and maybe teaching the kids, too. Maybe they meant to lose and threw the game because they wanted to see the kid smile.”
Barreras’ holistic approach has helped drive significant growth across the YMCA. Youth sports have expanded over the years, with Tots Sports and new programs bringing more families into the organization. Fitness programs have evolved to meet deeper community needs, including specialized offerings like Tots Tumbling and Rock Steady Boxing for individuals with Parkinson’s. Swim lessons have expanded to weekends, making them more accessible to working families. Together as a team, Barreras and his directors ask, what can we do to serve more people? What can we do to help?
“Five years ago, we didn’t have all this,” Barreras said. “I think in five years, we’ll have probably 20-30% more to offer, whether that’s more benefits and amenities for members, or the program capacity and the amount of different types of programs. I think that’s really important.”
In addition to programs and services, Barreras is involved in event planning for the four large events our YMCA holds each year: the free Albany Community Carnival, which takes place this month; the Ken Davis Golf Classic, which will be held this year on July 10; the Summer Y Games in August; and the Winter Gala in November.
“I’m fortunate to have an amazing team, and to be honest, one thing that I’ve done the best that I’m most proud of is the development and selection of people that I’ve been able to have the opportunity to hire,” Barreras said. “No matter
what, I could list the things I’ve done every year. But it’s not what I’ve done it’s what everyone around me did. And I pride myself on finding those people. I identified them, and now I’m helping develop them, and they’re helping develop me. ”
What Barreras enjoys most about his role is the ability to provide new opportunities for members and the community, and his ability to collaborate with team members throughout our YMCA. Additionally, Barreras said he remains committed to his role because of the support the organization provides for him, both professionally and personally.
“I’m happy, I love my team, I love what we ’ re doing, and I love the mission,” Barreras said. “What keeps me here is the ability to be myself and the opportunities we ’ re creating for people. That’s why I’ll be here for probably as long as they’ll have me. The more projects and the more opportunities we offer, the more people it can bless. I don’t know a better reason to stay around than that.”
Thank you to everyone who recently celebrated a birthday with us. We are so glad to be part of your special day and help make it one to remember.
Interested in celebrating your birthday at the YMCA? Click here or scan the QR code below to learn more about Facility Rental options, including our Bounce House!
2026 2026
Albany Community Carnival Albany Community Carnival & Great Platypus Drop & BENEFITING THE YMCA & HABITAT FOR HUMANITY
PRESENTED BY REPUBLIC SERVICES
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 11:00 AM-4:00 PM AT THE YMCA VS DU
GREAT PLATYPUS DRO BOUNCE ZONE & OBST CARNIVAL GAMES & P VENDORS • TODDLER F PHOTO BOOTH • FREE
FOR ONLY $5, YOU CAN BUY A PLATYPUS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF OUR AMAZING PRIZES, INCLUDING A TRIP TO DISNEYLAND! DUCKS VS. BEAVERS: CLICK HERE OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO PURCHASE YOUR ENTRY FOR THE GREAT PLATYPUS DROP
ALBANY COMMUNITY CARNIVAL & GREAT PLATYPUS DROP
SATURDAY, MAY 9, 11:00 AM-4:00 PM PRESENTED BY REPUBLIC SERVICES
AdmissiontotheAlbanyCommunityCarnivalisFREE, butforjust$5,youcanpurchaseaplatypusand watchittakeflightduringtheGreatPlatypusDrop forachancetowinincredibleprizes,includingatrip toDisneylandforfour!
TheAlbanyCommunityCarnivalincludes:
Bounce Zone & Obstacle Course
Carnival Games & Prizes
Food Vendors & Vendor Fair
Photo booth
Click here to purchase your platypus raffle tickets.
LINE DANCING CLASS
MAY 6-MAY 27
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 6
Our Line Dancing Class caters to everyone, regardless of your dance background or experience level. Our inclusive approach is designed to accommodate all. We learn a new line dance every week, featuring a mix of country, pop, and party songs: Boot Scootin’ Boogie, Electric Slide, some oldies you may recognize, and new ones! No partner needed, just you and your dancing shoes.
Wednesdays, 6:30 PM
Age 16+
$50 Members / $60 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
YOUTH ACRYLIC PAINTING WORKSHOP
MAY 7-MAY 28
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 1
We are partnering with We Make Art to bring a brandnew Youth Acrylic Painting Workshop to the Y. Explore the flow of acrylic painting during this four-week workshop with Miss Britni from We Make Art. Whether your child is already interested in art or is looking for a creative outlet, this workshop is great for all levels.
Thursdays, 5:30 PM-7:00 PM
Ages 7-12
$120 per child
Click here for more information and to register.
SPRING CRAFT & PLAY
SATURDAY, MAY 23
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 21
Craft & Play is a fun, family friendly craft program where kids and caregivers can create, explore, and imagine side by side. All supplies are provided, and no experience is needed, just come ready to have fun, get a little crafty, and make something special to take home. Perfect for all ages and a great way to make memories together!
10:00 AM-12:00 PM
Ages 3-10
$15 for one child & two adults
Click here for more information and to register.
MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH
FRIDAY, MAY 8
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 7
Join us for a special Mother’s Day Brunch filled with love, laughter, and delicious food in celebratino of the amazing women in all our lives! Open to all, not just mothers and women.
11:30 AM-1:00 PM
Ages 16+
Register at the YMCA Welcome Center $10 Members / $15 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
MAY MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE
FRIDAY, MAY 8
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 8
Mark your calendar! Every 2 Friday of the month from 7-9 PM, middle schoolers are invited for a night of music, fun, and friends. Our next dance theme is Prom! Entry is FREE. Pre-register or register at the door. nd
7:00-9:00 PM
Bring your Student ID or proof of middle school attendance
Free entry
Click here for more information and to register.
KEN DAVIS GOLF CLASSIC
FRIDAY, JULY 10
PRESENTED BY THE DAVIS FAMILY
Celebrate the legacy of Ken Davis with a day of fun on the course, honoring his dedication to youth, families, and our community. Presented by the Davis Family, this special event benefits the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA, supporting programs that strengthen and uplift our community. The Ken Davis Golf Classic includes:
4-person team scramble tournament
KP Contest & Long Drive Contest
Raffle
$600 per team. Sponsorship opportunities available.
Click here for more information and to register.
7V7 ADULT SOCCER
JUNE 6-AUGUST 8
REGISTRATION DEADLINE JUNE 1
We are proud to be bringing 7v7 Adult Soccer to our YMCA. The league is 7 weeks; the top 4 teams advance to the semi-finals, and the winners will compete in a championship game on August 8th. Games are 40 minutes with 20-minute halves and will have referees.
Saturday evenings Games are played from 6:30 PM-7:30 PM
Ages 16+
$500 per team
Click here for more information and to register.
YMCA SUMMER CAMP
JUNE 15-AUGUST 21
Our YMCA Summer Camp is packed with excitement, adventure, and fun for kids of all ages! From swimming and games to crafts and exploring our inclusive playground, there's something for everyone.
BIG KIDS CAMP: Ages 6-5th Grade
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
$130 for Members, $155 for Guests (Weekly)
LITTLE KIDS CAMP: Ages 3-5
Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
$130 for Members, $155 for Guests (Weekly)
Add-on extended care hours available. Click link below for more info.
Click here for more information and to register.
YMCA PRESCHOOLS
PRESCHOOL / TODDLER CARE / EARLY LEARNING FULL DAY & HALF DAY OPTIONS AVAILABLE
Is your child ready for preschool? It’s never too early to plan for their future! At YMCA Preschools, every day is full of growth, discovery, and fun.
Flexible Options: Choose from full-day or part-day programs to suit your family’s schedule. We also have Toddler Care for ages 2-3 at our Growing Leaders Early Learning Center.
Whole-Child Focus: We balance academic learning with social-emotional development.
Fun & Discovery: From hands-on activities to making new friends, every day is an adventure!
Click here for more information and to register.
WORLD RHYTHMS HAND DRUM CIRCLE
MAY 6-MAY 27
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 6
Join us for World Rhythms Hand Drum Class with Drum Circle Connection! This vibrant series led by Michelle Lovrich, founder of Drum Circle Connection. Discover how drumming awakens the mind, body, and spirit— connecting you to a global rhythm of joy, creativity, and healing.
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:00 PM
Ages 12+
$75 per person / $100 per couple
Click here for more information and to register.
ADULT VOLLEYBALL
MAY 13-JULY 1
REGISTRATION DEADLINE MAY 11
Are you ready to spike, dive, and serve your way to victory? YMCA Adult Volleyball is here, bringing the perfect blend of passion, competition, and fun! Whether you ' re a seasoned pro or just looking to stay active, our coed league has a spot for you. Don’t have a team but still want to play? Contact our Sports Coordinator, Brennan, at sportscoordinator@ymcaalbany.org to join a free agent team.
Wednesdays, 7:00 PM
Ages 16+
$200 per team
Click here for more information and to register.
OVERFLOW PERFORMANCE
ONGOING
Join us for Speed & Agility and Sports Performance training at the YMCA with OverFlow Performance! OverFlow Performance is led by former Oregon State University all-league linebacker and NFL player Dwight Roberson. He brings over a decade of coaching experience in football and track and field.
2 or 3 sessions per week Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings Ages 9-13 and 14+
$100-$150 per month
Click here for more information and to register.
VOLLEYBALL ACADEMY
ONGOING
At YMCA Volleyball Academy, we inspire a love for volleyball while empowering young athletes to reach their full potential. Whether you ’ re a beginner or an advanced player, our premier training programs are designed to help you elevate your game in a supportive and engaging environment.
Beginner Level: Fridays, 5:00 PM-6:00 PM $40 Members & Guests
Intermediate & Advanced Levels: Fridays, 6:00 PM-7:30 PM $50 Members / $60 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
MW 12:00 PM Yoga: meet.google.com/igu-akrt-jhu
TTH 7:30 AM Yoga: meet.google.com/qxb-vfrx-guj
W 5:30 PM Power Yoga: meet.google.com/ake-ianf-ttw