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August 2026 FOREVERWELL® Newsletter

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FOREVERWELL AUGUST 2026

FOREVERWELL® is a program for the active ager - our goal is to bring new events, extracurriculars, and clubs just for you!

Social Activities: Summer Social August 18 11:15 - 11:45 am We will meet near the picnic tables on the North side of the building. - Fercho Y Come join us for games and a picnic outdoors. If the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll move the festivities inside to Dawson Lounge. Bring a dish to share and enjoy a picnic outside! We'll provide mini sandwich sliders, chips, and fresh veggies.

Member Spotlight Paul’s Story: More Than 40 Years of Community, Connection, and Commitment For more than 40 years, Paul has found more than a place to exercise at the YMCA—he has found a community, lifelong friendships, and a place where he truly belongs. Growing up in Moorhead, Paul was always active. Sports played a big role in his life, from baseball to running, and he stayed involved in activities that kept him moving. He joined the YMCA during college, where he quickly became involved and enjoyed spending time playing racquetball with friends. Even after moving to Bismarck, Paul continued his YMCA membership. When he returned to the Fargo-Moorhead area, he rejoined the Y and has remained an active and dedicated member ever since. Over the years, Paul’s connection to the YMCA has grown far beyond fitness. He has served on the Endowment Board, helping support the YMCA’s long-term financial strength through thoughtful planning around funds, investments, and distributions. He also worked as a Fitness Associate, giving him a behind-the-scenes look at the Y and the many people who help make it a welcoming place. Paul valued the opportunity to stay involved, connect with members, and continue contributing to the community he has always appreciated. Paul has always been open to trying new things at the YMCA, whether it’s pick-up basketball, racquetball, or an aerobics class. Over the years, he discovered his true passion for fitness in the fitness center, where he continues to challenge himself and stay active. Today, you can still find Paul at the YMCA nearly every day—six times a week! He credits the Y with helping him recover from injuries, regain his strength, and continue doing the activities that bring him joy.

Summer Social August 21 11:15 - 11:45 am Park shelter by Rabanus Park- Schlossman Y Come join us for games and a picnic outdoors. If the weather doesn't cooperate, we'll move the festivities inside to the upstairs party room of the Play Loft. Bring a dish to share and enjoy a picnic outside! We'll provide mini sandwich sliders, chips, and fresh veggies.

Although Paul describes himself as an introvert, the YMCA has helped him grow in ways he never expected. Through the Y, he has become more comfortable meeting new people, speaking with others, and building meaningful connections. Many of the friendships he has made at the YMCA have lasted for decades. “I’ve met so many people here over the years that I’m still in contact with—people I met 20 or 30 years ago,” Paul shared. “I still know them, see them, and talk with them.”For Paul, those relationships are one of the most meaningful parts of being part of the YMCA community. Beyond his regular workouts, Paul enjoys participating in YMCA events and spending time with fellow members outside the fitness center. He especially looks forward to the Paul Howry Golf Tournament each year and joining friends on YMCA Twins bus trips. He still talks about the recent Twins trip—the great seats, perfect weather, and the opportunity to experience new parts of the stadium while making memories with the YMCA community. When he’s not at the YMCA, Paul enjoys golf, traveling, following local sports, and spending time with family. After more than four decades, Paul’s journey reflects the heart of the YMCA—a place where people can stay active, discover new opportunities, build meaningful relationships, and find a community that feels like home.

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


Book Club August 11 | 9:30 am Dawson Lounge - FY We will discuss Braiding Sweetgrass” By Robin Wall Kimmerer. All are welcome, even if you haven't finished the book. September’s book is “Isola” by Allegra Goodman.

FOREVERWELL Future Book Club Books: Join our monthly YMCA Book Club! Whether you’ve finished the book or just started, you’re welcome to join the conversation. We meet monthly from 9:30–10:00 a.m. in Dawson Lounge. Need a book? Check local libraries, resale shops, Little Free Libraries, or Libby audiobooks around Fargo–Moorhead.

Bingo August 25 | 9:30 am Dawson Lounge - FY August 28 | 11:15 am Play Loft Party Room- SY Have fun winning prizes, and playing bingo.

August 11

September 8

October 13

November 10

Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Isola by Allegra Goodman

The Woman They Could Not Silence by Kate Moore

Whistler by Ann Patchett

Puzzle of the Month The key only fits in ONE door. Can you get through the maze by unlocking the right door?

July’s Puzzle Answer:

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


FOREVERWELL Events Calendar August 2026 Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

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4

5

6

7

11

12

13

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*National Watermelon Day

10

Book Club Fercho Y 9:30 - 10 am *National Middle Child Day

17

18

19

*National Left-Handers Day

20

Fercho Potluck Fercho Y 11:15 - 11:45 am

21 Schlossman Potluck Schlossman Y 11:15 - 11:45 am *National Senior Citizens Day

24

25

26

Bingo Fercho Y 9:30-10 am

27

28 Bingo Schlossman Y 11:15 - 11:45 am

*National Dog Day

31

*National Trail Mix day

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


FOREVERWELL Upcoming Events North Dakota Senior Games Game on! Registration for the North Dakota Senior Games is officially OPEN! The largest multi-sport event for ages 50 and better. The North Dakota Senior Games presented by Sanford Health offers a variety of events ranging from pickleball to swimming, golf, track and field and so many more. Scan the QR code to get all the details about North Dakota Senior Games presented by Sanford Health. First event cost $40.00 to compete, every additional event is an extra $5.00. Registration closes Sunday, August 2. FOREVERWELL Zoo Feild Trip September 23 | Red River Zoo 9:30-12:30 pm $25 Members | $35 Non-Members Register today for our upcoming field trip to the Red River Zoo. Explore unique animals, enjoy guided exhibits, and learn about wildlife conservation up close. Transportation and a snack are provided. The first 15 people to register receive a free swag bag. Location: Fercho Y bus pick-up 9:30 am, East parking lot entrance. Schlosman Y bus pick up 9:45 am, Main lobby Estimated Schlossman drop-off time: 12:15 PM Estimated Fercho drop-off time: 12:30 PM Registration is required |Pre-registration is recommended | Scan the QR code to register today FOREVERWELL Dance October 10 | Fercho Studio A 3:00–4:45 pm $15 Members | $20 Non-Members Join us for a night to remember! Enjoy music, dancing, line dancing lessons with Jen Enz, punch, light appetizers, and a photo booth. Whether you're reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, this is your night to shine! Come with a friend, a partner, or simply bring your smile—everyone is welcome. Registration is required |Pre-registration is recommended | Scan the QR code to register today

*New* Chair Class Options Arriving We're excited to announce starting Monday, August 3rd a *NEW* SilverSneakers Classic is arriving at the Schlossman YMCA in Studio 1 from 10:15–11:00 a.m. Also, starting on Monday, August 3 a *NEW* Virtual Chair Yoga class will be temporary added to the schedule from 10:15-11:00 a.m. This option allows for members & guests to continue enjoying a gentle, lowimpact workout while we wait for Instructor Jane’s return. We hope you'll join us for one of our new class options. Continue to watch the schedule as more Virtual Chair Yoga Class Options will be available soon!

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


Getting Started with the My Y App - Download Our New App Today! The My Y app is now available to all members today through August 3rd! Download it today to access convenient features designed to enhance your YMCA experience. Once you've logged in, you'll have access to your digital membership barcode, group fitness schedules including aquatics schedule, challenges, & rewards. The images below provide step-by-step instructions to help you get started and make the most of the app's features. To get started, download the My Y app by scanning the QR code below. When you open the app, you'll see the home page. From here, you can navigate to many different sections. Tap Group Fitness Classes to view the full list of classes we offer.

From there, you can view the Group Fitness schedule and tap on any class to learn more. You can also filter classes by format, instructor, or location to find the options that best fit your preferences.

From here, you can learn more about the class, see who is teaching it, and reserve your spot. While reserving a spot is not required, it is highly encouraged. Plus *NOW* you can earn points & rewards for attending your favorite classes!

After reserving a class, you can add it to your calendar so you don't forget to attend.

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


Getting Started with the My Y App

If you choose not to add the reservation to your calendar, you can still access it from the My Reservations tab. If you're no longer able to attend, you can also cancel your reservation there.

After clicking on more, you're able to view your profile, look at the challenges we are offering, and much more. One cool feature is the rewards and achievements you can get in the app by coming to the YMCA.

Features: Quick and Easy Check-In: Tap "Check In" to scan your barcode at the front desk. Your family's membership cards are all in one place for seamless access to workouts, classes, swim lessons, and more. Group Fitness Schedules: Search for your favorite class or discover something new. Our app now lets you reserve your spot in class. Reservations are encouraged, and some smaller classes may require advance registration. By reserving your spot in a class, you'll also now see your upcoming classes listed in your calendar on the homepage to help you plan your week! Class information will also update in real-time to show you trainer substitutions or class cancellations. Book Personal Training: Our new in-app booking feature lets you schedule personal training, EGYM orientations, InBody assessments, and other eligible services. Browse trainer profiles and book appointments when it's convenient for you. Real-Time Facility Schedules: View up-to-date information on building hours, pool times, open gym, and class schedules—right when you need it. Stay informed: Get the latest Y updates, alerts, and notifications all in one place. Quickly access location details, contact information, and hours for your local Y.

YMCA of the Northern Sky | ymcanorthernsky.org/foreverwell


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August 2026 FOREVERWELL® Newsletter by YMCA of the Northern Sky - Issuu