SEPTEMBER 2026 AT THE MID-WILLAMETTE FAMILY YMCA
REMINDER: THE YMCA WILL BE CLOSED SEPT. 2-7 FOR SHUTDOWN & LABOR DAY
Y STORIES: KATIE PROVENCE When Katie Provence was a student at South Albany High School, a teacher—her best friend’s dad at the time—told her she should pursue a career path as a teacher. “He said, ‘You should really think about becoming a teacher, whether with littles, like preschool, or kindergarten, first, or second grade, because you are really good with kids,’” Provence said. That advice and encouragement led her to an associate’s degree in childhood development and her current role as the Assistant Director and Coordinator of the YMCA Growing Leaders Early Learning Center. “I am so thankful he suggested it,” she said, “because I absolutely love working with kids.”
IN THIS ISSUE Y Stories: Katie Provence Page 1-3 Community Partner Highlight Page 4-5 BRIDGES & On-Campus Before & After School Page 6 Preschools & Homeschool Swim and Gym Page 7 Bubbles & Besties & Adult Soccer League Page 8 Adult Flag Football & Adult Volleyball Page 9 Middle School Dance & Friday Night Out Page 10
Tots Tumbling & Tots Soccer Page 11 NFL Flag Football & Volleyball Academy Page 12 World Rhythms Hand Drum Class & Youth Art Workshop Page 13 Senior Wellness Fair & Mid-Valley Youth Lacrosse Clinic Page 14 Fitness & Fall Pool Schedule Page 15
SEPTEMBER 2026 AT THE YMCA
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Provence was born and raised in Albany. She started her career with several other preschools in the area before landing at Growing Leaders in 2021. Initially, she was a teacher before applying for the assistant director role. Now, her job encompasses much more than just teaching: she supports Lindsay Ornelas, our ELC director, and the ELC staff; she trains new teachers; she communicates with parents and helps plan events; and she provides additional support in the classroom. Growing Leaders ELC serves kids 2-5, including a toddler classroom for ages 2-3, and preschool classrooms for ages 3-5. The school’s mission is to provide a holistic educational experience and a supportive, nurturing, and safe environment that fosters the development of each child. Provence noted some important aspects of the ELC's curriculum: name recognition, numbers and counting, arts and crafts, sharing, outdoor play, and socializing with others. The goal, ultimately, is to prepare students for the world ahead of them. The values Provence and the ELC staff bring to the classroom include a curiosity for learning, acceptance, and caring for all.
“We love everybody regardless. We are a family. We take care of each other. And we are here to support everybody, whether we are supporting the children or the staff in the classrooms,” Provence said. “We are very much a family center. We really care for these kids. We want to be there for them.” These values are present in many ways. Children participate daily in hands-on activities, including planting and tending the ELC garden and harvesting fruits and vegetables together each year. Growing Leaders ELC also hosts several events with families throughout the year, including dances, carnivals, and more.
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“Some of my favorite memories are whenever we have our family events,” Provence said. “Last weekend, we had our carnival, and I could hear all the families outside—there was a humming, like a beehive, a buzz of everyone talking. And it warms my heart, knowing the kids are playing and the families are socializing and making connections with each other.” Additionally, Provence said one of her favorite aspects of her role at Growing Leaders is her relationship with the kids and seeing the growth and development of students over time. “Seeing them grow and achieve the goals they have worked so hard for and seeing them finally accomplish the thing that they have been trying so hard to do—that’s my favorite part,” Provence said. “It’s just so rewarding. I love my job, and I love working with kids." To learn more about our Growing Leaders ELC, visit the YMCA website.
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BIRTHDAYS AT THE YMCA 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.
Harley Barker 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!
COMMUNITY PARTNER HIGHLIGHT: PURE ENERGY GROUP When Pure Energy Group became our YMCA's first Full Gym Sponsor nearly three years ago, it marked the beginning of a partnership rooted in something both organizations value deeply: serving the community around them. "We see the YMCA as an amazing outreach to our community," shared Ben Galceran of Pure Energy Group. "The service and facilities are second to none, and we just felt like our values of community service and outreach align perfectly with the YMCA’s."
Founded in 2021 by Matthew Henderson, Jordan Sinn, and Travis Sheffield, Pure Energy Group grew out of years of experience in the electrical and solar industries. The founders had seen how large, out-of-state solar companies approached the market and believed there was room for something different. They wanted everyday families to see solar as an option worth exploring, regardless of income or the size of system they might need. They also wanted customers to work with a local team that understood Oregon and would be there long after installation.
BIRTHDAYS & COMMUNITY PARTNER HIGHLIGHT
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Today, that means prioritizing education over pressure and giving customers the information and time they need to make the right decision. Sales, installation, repairs, management, and ownership are all part of the local Pure Energy Group team. Pure Energy Group supports local schools, nonprofits, and youth-serving organizations, while team members give their time as volunteers and coaches. Marketing Director Sailor VanVolkinburg explained that community involvement allows the company to shift the focus away from what it sells and ask a different question: What else can we do? One answer came through the Boys & Girls Club of Albany's new Waverly Campus, where Pure Energy Group donated a solar energy system that will help reduce long-term energy expenses and keep more resources focused on local youth. In its early days, Pure Energy Group's team worked from garages, rented warehouses, shops, and other locations. This fall, they'll bring the team together under one roof at a new headquarters in Millersburg. The new space will include a hands-on showroom where customers can see solar panels and battery storage systems up close, ask questions, and better understand the technology before making an investment. As energy costs rise and Oregon communities face challenges such as wildfire-related power outages, Pure Energy Group sees an opportunity to help homeowners and businesses gain greater control over their energy needs. That may mean lowering a monthly power bill, exploring battery storage, or simply understanding the options available to them. Pure Energy Group is also a Trade Ally of Energy Trust of Oregon and part of its network of trusted solar contractors, a distinction that complements the company's focus on education and service. Galceran described partnering with the Y as a "no-brainer" because of the alignment between the two organizations, adding, "We have been so blessed by the collaboration we have had so far."
COMMUNITY PARTNER HIGHLIGHT
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BRIDGES BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM EVERY DAY BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL YMCA BRIDGES provides your child with a safe, enriching space to grow, learn, and thrive. Our program includes homework help, physical playtime, healthy snacks, arts and crafts, STEM activities, and more! Before School: 6:45 AM-9:00 AM After School: 3:45 PM-6:00 Oak Grove Elementary (serving Oak Grove students) & North Albany Elementary (serving NAES students) Kindergarten-5th Grade Before School: $150/month, After School: $250/month, Before & After School: $350/month Click here for more information and to register.
ON-CAMPUS BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM EVERY DAY BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL YMCA Before & After School Programs are dedicated to fostering the growth and development of your child in a safe, engaging, and nurturing environment. Please note that on-campus After School registration is inperson only at the YMCA Welcome Center.
Before School: 6:45 AM-GAPS bus arrives After School: After School-6:30 PM Kindergarten-5th Grade Before School: $120 Members / $150 Guests, After School: $170 Members / $190 Guests Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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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 for a well-rounded start. Fun & Discovery: From hands-on activities to making new friends, every day is an adventure! Click here for more information.
HOMESCHOOL SWIM & GYM ONGOING FALL SESSION: SEPTEMBER-DECEMBER
With the help of YMCA staff and lifeguards, Homeschool Swim & Gym is a fun, organized, parentled swim lesson and PE session for homeschooled students ages 3-18. Your child will make friendships while exercising and gaining physical skills each week!
Class Length (Swim): Age 10-18, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM; Age 3-9, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Class Length (Gym): Age 3-9, 2:00 PM-3:00 PM; Age 10-18, 3:00 PM-4:00 PM Sessions: Fall: September-December; Winter: JanuaryMarch; Spring: April-May Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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BUBBLES & BESTIES SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 REGISTRATION DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 12 Enjoy a social atmosphere with food, drinks, pampering, and shopping, all while supporting the YMCA. We’ll be sipping champagne, indulging in charcuterie, and treating ourselves at a decadent dessert bar. There will be so much to enjoy: henna, brow waxing, candle‑making, hair tinsel, a photo booth, and more. 6:00 PM-8:30 PM Flinn Block Hall, 222 1st Ave W. Albany Ages 21+ $40 per person Click here for more information and to register.
7V7 ADULT SOCCER LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 12-NOVEMBER 14 REGISTRATION DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 7 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 November 14th. Games are 50 minutes with 25-minute halves and will have referees. Saturday evenings Ages 16+ $500 per team Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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5V5 ADULT FLAG FOOTBALL SEPTEMBER 25-NOVEMBER 20 REGISTRATION DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 21 Introduce your little one to the exciting world of soccer with YMCA Tots Soccer! This fun-filled 4-week program is designed for children ages 3-5, helping them develop gross motor skills, teamwork, and a love for the game through engaging, rotation-based activities. Our interactive sessions focus on learning, laughter, and movement. Wednesdays or Fridays, 5:00 PM-5:45 PM Ages 3-5 $80 Members / $100 Guests Click here for more information and to register.
ADULT VOLLEYBALL SEPTEMBER 9-OCTOBER 28 REGISTRATION DEADLINE 7 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. Wednesday evening games Ages 16+ $200 per team If you are interested in playing but do not have a team, please contact sportscoordinator@ymcaalbany.org Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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MIDDLE SCHOOL DANCE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 REGISTRATION DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 11 Middle School Dances are BACK! Join us this September for a Back-to-School Bash. Mark your calendar—every second Friday of the month, middle schoolers are invited for a night of music, fun, and friends. Join us on September 11th! 7:00-9:00 PM $5 per dance or $25 for a School-Year Dance Pass Please bring Student ID or proof of attendance Click here for more information and to register.
FRIDAY NIGHT OUT EVENING CHILD CARE EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT Need a break? The YMCA has got you covered! Our Friday Night Out program allows you to enjoy some well-deserved 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-5th grade $15 Members / $20 Guests weekly $50 for Members & Guests monthly Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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TOTS TUMBLING TUESDAYS: SEPTEMBER 8-SEPTEMBER 29 SATURDAYS: SEPTEMBER 12-OCTOBER 3 Looking for an active outlet for your toddler? Tots Tumbling is perfect for young children just beginning their tumbling journey! This fun and safe class helps kids develop basic tumbling skills while building confidence and coordination. Tuesday or Saturday sessions 9:00 AM-12:00 PM Ages 2-3 and 4-5 $60 Members / $80 Guests Click here for more information and to register.
TOTS SOCCER WEDNESDAYS: SEPTEMBER 23-OCTOBER 14 FRIDAYS: SEPTEMBER 25-OCTOBER 16 Introduce your little one to the exciting world of soccer with YMCA Tots Soccer! This fun-filled 4-week program is designed for children ages 3-5, helping them develop gross motor skills, teamwork, and a love for the game through engaging, rotation-based activities. Our interactive sessions focus on learning, laughter, and movement.
Wednesday or Friday sessions Ages 3-5 $80 Members / $100 Guests Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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NFL FLAG FOOTBALL SEPTEMBER 14-NOVEMBER 7 PRESENTED BY AK CARPET & MORE Get ready for an action-packed fall season of YMCA NFL Flag Football. This fun, low-contact program is perfect for kids of all skill levels, focusing on teamwork, skill-building, and having fun in a safe and inclusive environment. Open to boys and girls. Weeknight practices Saturday games Ages 4-13 $110 Members / $120 Guests 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.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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WORLD RHYTHMS HAND DRUM CIRCLE SEPTEMBER 2-SEPTEMBER 23 REGISTRATION DEADLINE AUGUST 2 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+ (Ages 12-18 must be accompanied by an adult $75 per person / $100 per couple Click here for more information and to register.
YOUTH ART WORKSHOP SEPTEMBER 3-SEPTEMBER 24 REGISTRATION DEADLINE SEPTEMBER 1 PRESENTED BY WE MAKE ART Explore different techniques of creating works of art with Miss Britni. Each week, students will learn about a famous artist, observing their art style and the method in which they achieved it! After a (brief) art history lesson, students will get to create their own masterpieces inspired by the Artist of the Week.
Thursdays, 5:30 PM-7:00 PM Ages 7-12 $120 Click here for more information and to register.
JULY PROGRAMS SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THEAT YMCA THE YMCA
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SENIOR WELLNESS FAIR SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10 We invite businesses, health care providers, nonprofit organizations, and community partners to participate as vendors at our Senior Wellness Fair. This event connects local organizations with older adults and their caregivers by providing valuable health, wellness, fitness, nutrition, safety, and community resources. $25 for your vendor space $10 table rental fee (optional) $5 if access to electricity is needed (optional) Click here for more information and to register.
MID-VALLEY YOUTH LACROSSE CLINIC SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Calling all 1st-8th graders! Whether you're new to lacrosse or want to improve your skills, this coed clinic is the perfect chance to learn, play, and have fun. No gear required, but feel free to bring your own! 2:00 PM-4300 PM Ages 1st-8th grade Lacrosse gear is not required Free for Members & Guests Click here for more information and to register.
SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS AT THE YMCA
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FITNESS & POOL SCHEDULES FALL FITNESS SCHEDULE FALL POOL SCHEDULE OPEN SWIM SCHEDULE HOT TUB SCHEDULE
FIND US ONLINE Website: ymcaalbany.org Facebook: facebook.com/ymcaalbany Instagram: @ymca_albany
FROM THE ARCHIVES
ONLINE YOGA CLASS LINKS 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
Tots Soccer at our YMCA!
FALL FITNESS & POOL SCHEDULES
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