OCTOBER 2025
Y STORIES: MCCALL WASHBURN
If you ’ ve been to group fitness classes, senior potlucks, middle school dances, or events like Adult Prom at our YMCA, chances are you ’ ve seen McCall Washburn. She’s the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA’s Fitness Director, but her role at the Y is so much more than that: she leads the fitness department, teaches classes, and plans events, including craft fairs, dances, Active Older Adult activities, and more.
Washburn grew up in Utah and originally moved to Albany in 2012 for her husband’s work. At the time, she was teaching Zumba and decided to reach out to local gyms for job opportunities. Her search ultimately led her to the Y. The move away from her close-knit family in Utah was difficult, but the YMCA provided Washburn with a new kind of support system.
together, and we would go lift weights, Washburn said. “After the transition to the new facility, I really fell in love with bootcamp.”
Washburn’s enthusiasm and the popularity of her classes became the YMCA’s Fitness Coordinator, scheduling classes and working closely with instructors and members, before stepping into her current role as Fitness Director in 2023. Although her responsibility has expanded, group fitness remains at the heart of the work Washburn does at the Y.
hburn said. “There’s nothing like a packed room of people part.”
burn also described her passion for supporting seniors and ns through events, like potlucks, bingo, cards, Senior s Testing, the Veterans Day Parade, and more.
planning events just bringing people together and playing , ” she said. “I really try to make everyone happy, which can d. But I love that I can do both here, fitness and events.”
member of the Church of Latter-day Saints, faith and family ntral to Washburn’s life. She’s the mother of five kids. She how family-oriented the YMCA is from preschool, to child care, to youth sports and fitness and she is grateful that her work provides her with the opportunity to live out her faith.
“I’m not specifically talking about religion at work, but you can still bring your faith into the work because it’s just who you are. It’s not something I’m preaching to other people, I’m just living it,” Washburn said. “I feel like most of the people who are here are also living it, if that makes sense. Even though we are all from different religions, there is still a faith that binds us together and makes us feel like we ’ re united. I feel like that here at the Y more than anywhere.”
y y g
A few weeks ago, Washburn noticed a woman crying in one of her classes, overwhelmed by the support she felt from the participants around her amid a depressive episode that day. The woman told Washburn that she didn’t know where she would be without that class or group, and Washburn said she is endlessly grateful for this experience, too.
“I've suffered from depression, and there are days when I don't want to come, but when I do come, I feel ten million times better afterwards,” Washburn said. “To get to come to work every day and know that, whether I'm feeling it that day or not, I'm going to leave these doors feeling better than I did when I came in it's pretty awesome that I get to be a part of that.”
Whether you are interested in group fitness, weightlifting, or training alone, Washburn is proud of all the offerings the YMCA provides to the Albany community. Members have routines, and individuals can easily meet others who attend the Y who have the same interests and schedule.
“No matter who you are, what your background is, and what you enjoy doing, you ’ re going to find a pretty large group of people who are doing it with you. And that’s very motivating to me, ” Washburn said.
Washburn’s goal as the Fitness Director is to help individuals and families find their niche to offer fitness opportunities that work for everyone. She does her best to exemplify the notion that the YMCA is much more than just a gym. Seeing people support one another, celebrate victories, and build friendships day after day is what motivates Washburn to continue her work at the Y: one conversation, class, and event at a time.
COMMUNITY PARTNER HIGHLIGHT: DSP CONNECTIONS
This October Down Syndrome Awareness Month we are honored to spotlight DSP Connections, a standout organization rooted in Salem, Oregon, whose mission values inclusion, dignity, and community empowerment.
DSP Connections was started with a simple but powerful goal: to make sure children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities get the personalized care and support they deserve. From helping individuals learn life skills, to connecting them with community opportunities, to matching families with compassionate caregivers, their work is built on relationships. Over the years, the grown into a trusted partner for families across the Willamette Va
Their commitment to inclusion goes far beyond daily care. One example is the Sensory Room at Portland’s Moda Center that DSP Connections helped make possible through their sponsorship with KultureCity. This dedicated space gives individuals with sensory sensitivities a calm, comfortable place to experience big events, like concerts, Blazer games, and shows.
Within our YMCA, DSP Connections has been a steadfast ally. Thei support includes:
Sponsoring youth sports across multiple seasons.
Facilitating ADA-accessible swim time and bringing inclusive joy to our YMCA Easter Egg Hunts.
Supporting our Summer Y Games Fundraiser, fueling scholarships and programs for local families.
Investing visibly on our campus through the Turf Banner Sponsorship Program, reinforcing their community presence and commitment.
DSP Connections’ reach, from home-focused support to inclusive public experiences, shows their heartfelt commitment to caring for the whole person. During Down Syndrome Awareness Month, we are especially grateful for the worlds they open, where every person with I/DD can belong, participate, and thrive.
WINTER GALA
GOLD SPONSOR
$5,000
Premium Table for 8 at Winter Gala
Complimentary Signature Drink Cocktails
Website Homepage Recognition for the Month of December
Social Media Story Post
Showcased in Event Program and OnScreen Recognition
Extra Large Logo on Event Signage
SILVER SPONSOR
$3,000
Premium Table for 8 at Winter Gala
Website Homepage Recognition for the Month of December
Social Media Story Post
Spotlight in Event Program and On-Screen Recognition
Large Logo on Event Signage
BRONZE SPONSOR
$2,000
Premium Table for 8 at Winter Gala
Website Homepage Recognition for the Month of December
Social Media Story Post
Spotlight in Event Program and On-Screen Recognition
Medium Logo on Event Signage
BAR SPONSOR
$1,500
Premium Table for 8 at Winter Gala
Website Homepage Recognition for the Month of December
Social Media Story Post
Spotlight in Event Program and On-Screen Recognition
Medium Logo on Event Signage
TABLE SPONSOR $400
Premium Table for 8 at Winter Gala
Social Media Story Post
Spotlight in Event Program and On-Screen Recognition
Logo on Event Signage
SUPPORT YOUR Y: JOIN US FOR OUR FIFTH ANNUAL WINTER GALA
Our 2025 Winter Gala is extra special as we celebrate 65 years of serving the Mid-Willamette Valley community.
2025 was a year of incredible progress, and we ’ re excited to share our success stories with you. Your support has made it all possible. As we look ahead to 2026, the Y is healthy, thriving, and growing. We can’t wait to connect with you soon and share the exciting future of our Y.
YMCA ON-CAMPUS
NON-SCHOOL DAY
EVERY NON-SCHOOL DAY
Looking for a fun, enriching way for your child to spend their non-school days? We're excited to offer an activitybased program that promotes the social, physical, emotional, and intellectual growth of children in a safe and fun environment. Plus, we swim every day!
7:30 AM-5:30 PM
Ages: Kindergarten through 5th Grade
$40 per day
Upcoming Non-School Days: 10/24, 10/30, 10/31
Click here for more information and to register.
YMCA HALLOWEEN NON-SCHOOL DAY
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 31
Join us for a Halloween-themed Non-School Day at the YMCA! Kids will enjoy Halloween crafts, a costume contest, a color contest, games, a movie, swimming, pizza, YMCA Trick or Treat, and more!
7:30 AM-5:30 PM
Ages: Kindergarten through 5th Grade
$50 per day
Click here for more information and to register.
FREE
MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 10: HALLOWEEN-THEMED! PRE-REGISTER OR REGISTER AT THE DOOR
Mark your calendar! Every 2nd Friday of the month from 7–9 PM, middle schoolers are invited for a night of music, fun, and friends. Our next dance is October 10th. Get ready for a Halloween-themed bash!
7:00 PM-9:00 PM
YMCA Family Activities Center
Bring Student ID
Parents/caregivers must sign waiver for entry
Click here for more information and to register.
FRIDAY NIGHT OUT
EVERY FRIDAY
Need a break? The YMCA has got you covered! Our Friday Night Out program allows you to enjoy some welldeserved downtime while your child dives into a night of games, crafts, swimming (ages 6+), pizza, and more.
Every Friday
5:30 PM-8:30 PM
Ages 8 weeks - 5 grade th $15 Members / $20 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
WILLAMETTE VALLEY JAGUARS WINTER
BASKETBALL
CAMP
DECEMBER 29-DECEMBER 30
REGISTRATION DEADLINE DECEMBER 28
We’re teaming up with the Willamette Valley Jaguars, our local professional basketball team, to bring a Preseason Winter Basketball Camp to the Y! Led by Jaguar players, this coed camp is a great opportunity for young athletes to learn skills, build confidence, and have fun.
Ages 5-9: 10:30 AM-12:30 PM
Ages 10-13: 1:00 PM-3:00 PM
$40 Members / $60 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
JR. NBA WINTER YOUTH BASKETBALL
JANUARY 5-FEBRUARY 28
REGISTRATION DEADLINE DECEMBER 21
We are excited to announce that our YMCA has partnered with the Jr. NBA to provide a recreational, coed program with the mission of empowering our youth through the game of basketball. Our goal is for the young athletes to improve on their skills, and to teach the importance of teamwork, leadership, and most importantly, having fun.
Practices each week, six games on Saturdays
Ages 4-13
$110 Members / $120 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
LITTLE Y DANCERS & Y DANCERS
OCTOBER 3-NOVEMBER 21
REGISTRATION DEADLINE OCTOBER 3
Our Little Y Dancers & Y Dancers classes feature ballet, ovement, jazz, and hip-hop! Young dancers se while developing creativity, coordination, and listening skills. Engaging music will m to dance & express themselves!
Dancers: Ages 3-5, 3:00 PM-3:50 PM
ers: Ages 6-9, 4:00PM-4:50PM mbers / $40 Guests
for more information and to register.
E BALLERS
DAYS: OCTOBER 29-NOVEMBER 19
AYS: OCTOBER 30-NOVEMBER 20
ATION DEADLINE OCTOBER 28/29
rs is a 4-week youth basketball program for ged 3-5, aimed at creating a love for the asketball and teaching the most simple, basic als of how to play the game. We emphasize ance of teamwork, good sportsmanship, and rtantly, having fun!
M-6:45 PM -5
mbers / $80 Guests for more information and to register.
MAIN CAMPUS AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM
EVERY DAY AFTER SCHOOL
Secure your child’s spot in our Main Campus After School Program! Open to kids in K–5th grade, our program offers a safe, fun, and supportive environment with a variety of hands-on activities led by our caring, experienced staff. It’s a place where kids can thrive after the bell rings!
After School-6:30 PM at the YMCA
Open to all GAPS Elementary Schools
$170 Members / $190 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
MAIN CAMPUS BEFORE SCHOOL PROGRAM
EVERY DAY BEFORE SCHOOL
Secure your child’s spot in our On-Campus Before School Program! Open to kids in K–5th grade, our program offers a safe, fun, and supportive environment with a variety of hands-on activities led by our caring, experienced staff.
6:45 AM-GAPS Bus Arrival
Open to all GAPS Elementary Schools
$100 Members / $120 Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
EXPLORING IBO: HAITIAN DANCE SERIES
OCTOBER 3-OCTOBER 24
REGISTRATION DEADLINE OCTOBER 3
Experience the joy, rhythm, and movement of Haitian dance this October with KinCultivate at the YMCA!
Taught by David Durosier, this four-part series explores the Ibo rhythm, a powerful dance rooted in Haiti’s history of resistance, freedom, and cultural pride.
6:00 PM-7:00PM
Ages 13+
$40 for series / $10 per class
Free for youth & students
Click here for more information and to register.
WORLD RHYTHMS HAND DRUM CLASS
OCTOBER 8-OCTOBER 29
REGISTRATION DEADLINE OCTOBER 8
Join us for a vibrant 4-week 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.
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Open to ages 12+
No experience necessary!
$75 for Members and Guests
Click here for more information and to register.
At YMCA Volleyball Academy, we inspire a love for volleyball while empowering young athletes to reach full potential. Whether you ’ re a beginner or an advan player, our premier training programs are designed t you elevate your game in a supportive and engaging environment.
Beginner Level: Wednesdays, 5:00 PM-6:00 PM
($40 Members / Non-Members)
Intermediate & Advanced Levels: Tuesdays, 5:30 PM-7:00 PM
($50 Members / $60 Non-Members)
Click here for more information and to register.
ELITE BOXING ONGOING
Our Elite Boxing program welcomes p skill levels, as there are classes for ki advanced boxers! The first class is fr out before committing to joining the
Kids Class (Ages 6-10)
Beginners Class (Ages 11+)
Advanced Class (Ages 18+)
Prices varies
Click here for more information and
YMCA HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Join us and celebrate the season at our 3rd annual Holiday Craft Fair! Support artisans while you shop for unique holiday gifts and enjoy the magic of the season.
We have vendor spots available: $50 for a 10x10 space, $5 for a table, $5 for electricity.
Please contact McCall Washburn at 541-926-4488 x1112 or fitness@ymcaalbany.org to register.
Click here for more information.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS TREE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, DOWNTOWN ALBANY
Operation Christmas Tree is a heartfelt, volunteer-driven initiative dedicated to bringing holiday cheer through the selection and display of a beautiful Christmas tree in the heart of our community.
Join us on November 29 for the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, a celebration filled with music, hot cocoa, caroling, and a countdown that lights up the tree, and the community, with warmth and wonder.
Sponsorship opportunities are available.
Click here for more information.
MW 12:00 PM Yoga: meet.google.com/jyd-baqp-vbo
TTH 7:30 AM Yoga: meet.google.com/kry-kkuv-edh
W 5:30 PM Power Yoga: meet.google.com/xvg-knsv-acq
