YMCA of the North Blog

Minnesota secondary students to learn, practice democracy at Minnesota State Capitol

Minnesota middle school students will compete in the National Civics Bee for the first time this year, as the YMCA Center for Youth Voice has been named state lead by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation as part of their effort to bring the nationwide competition to all 50 states.

A warm, fudgy, single-serve chocolate treat packed with protein and ready in minutes.

A vibrant mix of roasted chicken and seasonal vegetables, finished with bright accents for a wholesome, easy weeknight dinner.

Mark your calendar for February 15-16 at the Minnesota Zoo for WinterFest 2026.

Winter can bring cozy moments—but it also brings challenges like icy sidewalks, shorter days, and less social interaction. Staying active and connected is essential for physical health, mental wellbeing, and overall happiness.

When the temperature drops, hydration often slips off our radar.

Working out with weights has some heavy benefits.

In the spirit of the holiday season, Life Fitness/ Hammer Strength leaders wanted to do something special to help others during their multi-day sales kickoff meeting in Minnesota this week

The YMCA of the North in partnership with Twin Cities schools and Cargill, will present the 21st annual Mitten Wishes program for the 2025 holiday season.

A rich, comforting chili made with tender ground beef, hearty beans, and warm spices for a classic, satisfying meal.

A fresh and flavorful bowl loaded with tender slow-cooked chicken, veggies, and rice for an easy, wholesome meal.

Sean Moore first discovered the YMCA around age 6, when he joined Little Dribblers — a program that helps young athletes build foundational basketball skills.

The YMCA of the North will host Inclusive Sports and Games Day at the Maplewood YMCA Community Center on Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The YMCA of the North is encouraging seniors participating in 2026 Medicare Advantage open enrollment to review their chosen plan to ensure it maintains their YMCA benefit.

The YMCA of the North is selling Christmas trees at local tree lots. Sales begin Nov. 21 at the Midway YMCA in St. Paul, Nov. 28 at the Blaisdell YMCA in Minneapolis and Nov. 29 at the Southdale YMCA in Edina.

There's no shortage of fond memories from people who've attended a YMCA camp. But Clarence Jones' story is a little different.

When she worked at Cargill, Kelly Hyman wanted to support a nonprofit through the company's Cares Council by providing funding and volunteering.

Sending your child away to their first overnight summer camp can be a difficult thing for a parent. For some, this will be the longest that your child has ever been apart from you. The best way to make sure that your kid has a great time at camp - and also to set your own mind at ease - is to pack everything your kid will need for his or her overnight camping adventure in rural Minnesota.

Dr. MayKao Hang found support and strength in the St. Paul Eastside YMCA upon arriving to the Twin Cities as among the first of many Hmong refugees who arrived in the late 1970s.

The YMCA of the North on Nov. 6 will host JJ’s Jab-oree, a flu vaccination clinic for college students at the University YMCA.

Growing up in Michigan, Lawrence Cho and his siblings considered it a treat on the rare occasions they participated in a YMCA program.

As winter approaches in Minnesota, icy sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots become part of daily life. For older adults, navigating these slippery surfaces can pose serious risks—but with a few simple precautions, you can stay safe and confident all season long.

As December unfolds and the days grow shorter, the winter solstice arrives as a quiet yet powerful moment in the seasonal calendar.

As winter settles in and the days grow shorter, many people—especially older adults—find themselves spending more time indoors. While cozy moments at home can be comforting, it’s important to stay socially connected during the colder months.

As autumn settles in and the season of thanksgiving approaches, it’s a meaningful time to pause and reflect.

The YMCA of the North will host 1,000 racers for the 10th annual Resilinator adventure race at Hyland Lake Park Reserve in Bloomington on Oct. 25 from 12-4 p.m.

As a basketball-loving kid, Troy Cardinal participated in some basketball camps and games at a YMCA in Champaign, Illinois. But he shyly notes that he spent a lot more time around courts and and facilities at the University of Illinois.

The YMCA of the North recently elected new members to its Board of Directors.

Community members welcome to the Farm at Camp St. Croix for Fall Harvest Fest Oct. 4

Invincikids and Cyber Athletix today announced a formal partnership to launch the Anchor Points Initiative (API). This groundbreaking program will bring immersive mental wellness and resiliency experiences to young people in both clinical and community settings to reduce anxiety, emotional stress and provide resiliency skill building.

Join us on October 23, 2025 for a fun-filled, family-friendly Halloween event full of tricks, treats, and spooky surprises!

Aging is often portrayed as a slow decline—but that narrative misses the mark. In reality, aging is a dynamic, powerful phase of life filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and vitality.

Emergencies don’t wait for convenience. Whether it’s a house fire, severe weather, or a community-wide evacuation, being prepared can make all the difference—especially for older adults who may face unique challenges during a crisis.

The YMCA of the North on Sept. 8 will announce a new name for the historic St. Paul Midway YMCA in recognition of the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation’s transformative support for many years, and celebrate the commencement of construction for the Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing.

Summer often brings a welcome break from routine. But as September arrives, it's a great opportunity to gently return to the habits that support your health and wellbeing.

As summer fades and the golden hues of fall begin to emerge, September offers a gentle invitation to slow down and savor the present.

The YMCA of the North and Minnesota Vikings legend Greg Coleman on Aug. 19 will host the 26th annual Greg Coleman Celebrity Golf Tournament at Bunker Hills Golf Course. All net tournament proceeds benefit youth sports programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all throughout the YMCA of the North.

The YMCA of the North on Aug. 15 and 16 will host its 12th annual BreakAway events at Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. The BreakAway events provide a two-day triathlon experience for kids and families.

We know getting around the area is a bit challenging right now, but don’t let that deter you from your health and wellness routine.

The internet offers incredible benefits for seniors – connection, learning, and convenience. Yet, it also harbors risks, with older adults often targeted by sophisticated scams.

For seniors, staying adequately hydrated isn't just a good idea – it's absolutely vital for maintaining health, energy, and independence.

The YMCA of the North and Special Olympics Minnesota are thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership to launch Unified Sports Camps in August at seven schools and YMCAs throughout the Twin Cities.

For seniors, the magic of community isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a vital ingredient for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Selected participants will receive full tuition and paid support to pursue national board certification

The YMCA of the North June 22-26 will host Camp Superkids, a one-week overnight camp experience at YMCA Camp Ihduhapi designed specifically for young people ages 7-16 with asthma and their siblings, friends and other supportive peers.

The YMCA of the North on May 31 and June 1 will host a metro-wide all-city Vikings flag football tournament for youth ages 6 to 14 at TCO Stadium.

The YMCA of the North will participate in “Pianos on Parade” at the Flint Hills Family Festival, taking place May 30-31 in downtown St. Paul, with a community piano created by YMCA Camp St. Croix in partnership with local artists.

The YMCA of the North on May 28 will celebrate National Senior Health and Fitness Day with ForeverWell open houses and special activities at numerous Y locations.

As we embrace the wisdom and freedom that come with our senior years, there's a powerful opportunity to redefine what wellness means to us.