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Everett Family YMCA Benefits from Nintex Local Impact Project

EVERETT, WA. July 28, 2023 – The Everett Family YMCA gifted dozens of bikes to local children thanks to a generous donation from Nintex, a global software company headquarted in Bellevue, WA. Nintex staff built the bikes as part of a team-building event at its global sales conference last week.

“We were so glad to incorporate this impact project into our sales conference and gift brand-new bikes to local children,” said Krista Burkart, Senior Executive Assistant, Nintex. “As a former Mill Creek Y board member, the Y has a special place in my heart and I love that we can do something as an organization and give back to the community in a meaningful way.”

The Y serves thousands of local children through its programs and services. Partnering with area businesses strengthens community and builds connection.

“It was an easy decision to choose the Y as the recipient of the bikes,” said Burkhart. “The work they do with local children through Big Brothers Big Sisters, school-age care and camp resonates with our employees. Our staff response was so positive; we received many comments and compliments.”

The bike distribution event was Friday, July 21 at the Everett Family YMCA. Bikes, helmets and a bag of craft supplies were available for Y members. Children arrived and got to choose their own bike and enjoy an ice cream treat.

“The smiles on the kids’ faces and gratitude from their families was so rewarding,” said Megan Franklin, Senior Program Director, Everett Family YMCA. “We are thankful for partnerships with companies like Nintex who want to make the community a better place – especially for kids.”

Partnerships with local companies are a win-win for the Y whose mission is strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

“Working with local businesses who want to make an impact in the community benefits all,” said Franklin. “They make it possible for us to go above and beyond and serve kids in a fun way – in this instance, providing a brand-new bike.”

Please visit ymca-snoco.org to learn more about the programs and services the Y offers across Snohomish County.

Mukilteo Y Hosts MUK Games Skate Park Event

MUKILTEO, WA. July 25, 2023 – The Mukilteo Family YMCA is hosting MUK games, its largest skate park event of the year, on July 28-30. From beginners to professionals, riders will perform mind-blowing tricks as they compete for amazing prizes and recognition among the skateboarding community.

“We are so excited to give everyone their moment to shine and a unique opportunity to participate in the sport they love,” said Jason Maki, Skate Park Director. “I’m particularly looking forward to the non-locals who attend the event and throw down (which translates to: do awesome tricks)!”

The weekend’s events consist of Finger Skateboarding from 4 – 8 pm on Friday, July 28, Skateboarding from 10 am – 4 pm on Saturday, July 29 and Scootering from 10 am – 4 pm on Sunday, July 30. The wide variety of events gives everyone the chance to display their skills and talent.

“This is a great venue for riders of all skill levels to compete,” said Maki. “Besides the absolute plethora of prizes to win, thanks to local shops and renowned skateboard companies, competing and having the chance to skate the park with an enthusiastic crowd watching can be a life experience these riders will never forget.”

Each rider will get two 45-second runs in their assigned division while having their names and tricks broadcasted by an emcee. The weekend’s festivities includes food, prizes, music, skating culture, and more! Lunch is provided for participants. Lunch tickets will be available to purchase.

“Spectators can expect to see all ages and ability levels showcase their skills and be a part of our summertime classic,” said Maki. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to check out the skating world and see what happens at our incredible facility.”

Registration is open through the end of the week for participants who want to compete. Registration is $5 for Y members and $15 community members. The event is free for spectators. Photo I.D. is required for the general public. For more information, please visit: bit.ly/3oXBnty

The MUK is one of the largest outdoor parks in Washington state, featuring all elements of a traditional skate park, but with the addition of trained, caring instructors providing supervision at all times. The Y’s skate park is the only staffed skate facility in Snohomish County.

YMCA of Snohomish County Adaptive Swim Team Offers Competition for All

EVERETT, WA. June 22, 2023 – The Mukilteo Family YMCA is home to the Stingrays Swim Team, an adaptive swim program that offers athletes with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities the opportunity to learn about swimming as a sport while having fun and making friends. The Stingrays just wrapped up their 2023 season by competing at the Washington State Special Olympics meet at the King County Aquatics Center.

“We are proud to be the home of the Stingrays and its amazing athletes,” said Carl Funnell, Senior Director, Mukilteo Family YMCA. “We welcome dozens of swimmers, families, and volunteers into the Y every week and love to help build this tight-knit swimming community.”

The Stingrays were originally an independent Edmonds-based Special Olympics team that worked out at the Y, renting the pool for its three-month season. In 2019, the Stingrays became a year-round YMCA of Snohomish County program. There is an influx of swimmers in the spring due to Special Olympics, but many athletes swim year-round. The program is for all ages with swimmers ranging from age 10 to adults.

“The minimum requirement to join the team is the ability to safely get from one side of the pool to the other (either swimming or walking) and the ability to follow directions,” said Funnell. “The team works well together and supports each other throughout the season. Our families report that it’s the highlight of their swimmer’s week. They look forward to coming to the pool every Saturday.”

The team practices once a week and uses the majority of the pool, serving 50-60 families. The Stingrays practice at the Mukilteo Y, but has swimmers from across Snohomish County. The program is fully-funded by scholarships and supported by volunteers. Volunteers assist with swim practice and also help run the state and regional Special Olympics meets.

Jim Toye has just completed his first season volunteering with the Stingrays by helping Coach Jim Russell set up work stations and assist kids in the water with learning swim strokes.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to give back to the community and help these wonderful kids in this small way,” said Toye. “The kids love to be in the pool and deserve the chance to compete and have fun.”

Coaching includes the YMCA values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility while working on physical training and stroke technique. The team encourages sportsmanship, as well as competition.

For more information about the Stingrays Swim Team, please visit ymca-snoco.org/swimming/programs/. Swimmers are required to be YMCA members to participate, but financial assistance is available.