YMCA News Archive

Fishing For Life's Reel ‘Em In program to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods, reels in 2024

jeffrey.needham — Wed, 15 May 2024 19:11:28 +0000

Fishing For Life's Reel ‘Em In program to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods, reels in 2024 jeffrey.needham Wed, 05/15/2024 - 14:11

YMCA of the North will partner to collect equipment, host volunteers to assemble tackle boxes

Minneapolis, MN – Fishing For Life, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to providing fishing and outdoor opportunities for individuals facing life challenges, is proud to announce its upcoming event as part of the Reel ‘Em In program. This initiative aims to refurbish 1000+ fishing rods and reels and tackle boxes each year, enabling more people to experience the joy of fishing and fostering a deeper connection with nature, while reducing items in the landfills.

On Thursday, May 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers will gather at the Emma B. Howe YMCA in Coon Rapids to repair and rejuvenate hundreds of rods and reels and clean and stuff tackle boxes. This community-driven effort relies on the expertise and dedication of passionate volunteers who will lend their time and skills to make this event a success.

The Reel ‘Em In program provides an opportunity for individuals with a passion for fishing to give back to their community. By refurbishing rods and reels, volunteers play a vital role in ensuring that others can enjoy the sport to its fullest. Fishing For Life is grateful for their commitment and selflessness. Refurbished rods are distributed back into the community and throughout the world by request and through partnerships like the YMCA. Broken rods beyond repair are turned into flyswatters or used for parts.

To facilitate the process, Fishing For Life has set up collection points at most Twin Cities YMCA locations. Rods and reels will be accepted for refurbishment until the end of May. Donations from the community are crucial to the success of the Reel ‘Em In program, and the organization encourages everyone to contribute their unused or broken fishing equipment.

“We are thrilled to continue the Reel ‘Em In program and refurbish 1000+ fishing rods and reels,” said Tom Goodrich, executive director of Fishing For Life. “Fishing is not only a recreational activity but also a way to connect with nature and find solace. By refurbishing these fishing tools, we are creating opportunities for more people to experience the joy and therapeutic benefits that fishing provides.”

For more information about the Reel ‘Em In program, including how to volunteer or donate fishing rods and reels, please contact Tom Goodrich at 612-987-5466 or visit the organization’s website at www.fishingforlife.org.

About Fishing For Life

Fishing For Life is a nonprofit organization founded in 2004 that is dedicated to enriching lives through fishing. The organization provides fishing and outdoor opportunities, education, and mentorship programs for individuals facing life challenges, including those with disabilities, at-risk youth, and military veterans. By fostering connections with nature and promoting the sport of fishing, Fishing For Life aims to inspire hope, strengthen communities, and empower individuals to overcome adversity. To learn more, visit www.fishingforlife.org.

About the YMCA of the North

The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 168 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.

YMCA of the North to host all-city basketball tournament for youth May 4-5

jeffrey.needham — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:43:34 +0000

YMCA of the North to host all-city basketball tournament for youth May 4-5 jeffrey.needham Fri, 05/03/2024 - 09:43

Shakopee, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on May 4 and 5 will host a metro-wide all-city basketball tournament for youth ages 6 to 14. All teams will play during the weekend, with the championship games held on Sunday.

Around 800 participants will compete in the end-of-session championship tournament. The event is the culmination of the eight-week season where participants engaged in sports programs at their local Ys.

“YMCA sports are built on the idea that everyone has an opportunity to play,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “YMCA athletes come from all backgrounds to unite as a team. Participants develop lifelong friendships and engage in healthy, positive competition.”

WHAT: YMCA All-City Basketball Tournament

WHERE: Shakopee High School, 100 17th Ave. W., Shakopee, MN 55379

WHEN:

Saturday, May 4, from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Sunday, May 5, from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Contact: Tyler Morgan, 715-321-2421

About the YMCA of the North

YMCA of the North to host Mess Fest May 4

jeffrey.needham — Thu, 02 May 2024 14:24:31 +0000

YMCA of the North to host Mess Fest May 4 jeffrey.needham Thu, 05/02/2024 - 09:24

Hudson, WI – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on May 4 will host the inaugural Y Mess Fest for kids and adults at YMCA Camp DayCroix in Hudson, Wisconsin.

At Y Mess Fest, participants don’t need to clean up their mess – they get to make one! The two-mile obstacle course is packed with activities where racers will crawl over, under, around and through all kinds of nature-made and human-made messes like paint, mud and sand, and will end with a giant bubble dance party. Participants will have a blast strengthening their bodies and clearing their minds as they get messy.

The event is open to children and adults, ages 5 and up. Registration time options start at 11 a.m. and go until 4 p.m. Racers choose their start session at registration. Registration includes a great obstacle course, swag, a hand-crafted medal and snacks at the finish line. To learn more and register, visit www.ymcanorth.org/adventure/experiences/ymca-mess-fest.

“Our Y Mess Fest adventure race is an opportunity for youth and families to enjoy time in nature while challenging themselves in a unique way – and embracing the fun of messiness,” said Glen Gunderson, president of the YMCA of the North. “YMCA of the North events like Mess Fest help participants develop a love of outdoor adventure that they can continue cultivating long after the event is over.”

WHAT: Y Mess Fest

WHERE: YMCA Day Camp DayCroix, 345 Riverview Dr., Hudson, WI 54016

WHEN: Saturday, May 4, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

About the YMCA of the North