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Staff
If there is one thing our dedicated staff can agree on, it’s that there is no such thing as a typical day at the Missoula Family YMCA. Whether we’re setting up the course for the Riverbank Run or cleaning up the Health & Wellness Center, we are committed to helping our members grow in spirit, mind and body. No matter the task, we do it committed to helping to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.
David Ports
Chief Executive Officer
E-mail: dports@ymcamissoula.org
When you think CEO, images of tailored suits and leather briefcases come to mind. But you’d be wrong if you thought that about David. Though it says CEO on his business card, David is anything but a typical CEO. He is the one financially responsible for the dollars that are needed to run the YMCA’s physical facilities and programs, yes. And he is the one who as “the big boss” is responsible for ensuring all staff are performing and growing as needed and wanted. But, beyond that standard executive fare, this CEO focuses on finding an-always-better way to guide the YMCA’s strategic plan and to better serve the community. And then, unlike many “suits,” he clears his head out in Montana’s wilds trail running, mountain biking or cross-country skiing.“There is never a typical day at the YMCA,” David says. “But there is a common denominator—working shoulder to shoulder with an array of smart, caring and wonderful people each and every day.”
David’s YMCA career spans over 13 years and four states. “My experience with the YMCA has provided opportunities for meaningful community building through personal relationships developed through shared visions and experiences,” David says. “I have always enjoyed getting to know people more fully and the YMCA provides that opportunity.”
A sentiment one hears from David over and over again (and you get this too from fellow staff members), is that he thinks of the YMCA as an extended family. “The YMCA will become a home away from home once you become a member,” he says. “It will be hard for you to imagine your world without the YMCA once you’ve become engaged with the amazing people who make up our membership, staff, volunteers and participants.”
David hales from the East Coast and though he’s spent time in several eastern states and across the pond, he considers New Hampshire his home state and it’s where the rest of his family still lives. He and his family (wife, Kathleen, and two children) relocated to Montana after several vacations. “We fell in love with Missoula because of the vibrant nature of the community and the access to the mountains, rivers and beautiful landscapes of Western Montana,” David says.
Not because of his job but because of what he’s learned in his job, David tries to live every day by the YMCA’s core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. “I have received more from the YMCA and the people I’ve met there than I can ever imagine,” he continues. “I am very proud of the hard work we all do to serve our community and I feel lucky to have a job with such a meaningful purpose. I have learned to be a better person because of the people I have met and worked with at the YMCA.”
Fun fact:
David spent part of his childhood stomping through Europe and even lived in England for three years.
Favorite thing to do:
Long hikes in the mountains—which makes Missoula the perfect place for him.
Favorite thing about the YMCA:
“I value the opportunity to build relationships with an array of YMCA and community members. I relish the opportunity to develop YMCA champions and advocates who can carry out the mission of the YMCA and strengthen its bond with our community.”
Favorite YMCA community event:
The Partners with Youth Campaign. “It is a selfless commitment by more than 100 volunteers and 725 donors to help raise money to provide financial assistance to kids and families from lower income thresholds. The campaign strengthens the community like no other.”
Jason Shearer
Associate Executive Director
E-mail: jshearer@ymcamissoula.org
“I am the associate executive director, which is just a fancy way of saying I oversee the day-to-day operations and support our many program directors—from childcare to Special Olympics, music to youth sports, and aquatics to membership,” says Jason Shearer, Missoula YMCA Associate Executive Director. But don’t let the humility fool you—Jason also leads one of the biggest YMCA events of each year, the Riverbank Run.Besides being embroiled in the day-to-day operation of the YMCA, Jason, his wife and two daughters spend plenty of time recreating at the Y as well. One child joins Dad at work as she attends YMCA preschool, and the elder arrives for the after-school program. In addition, his oldest daughter loves Adventure Guides, soccer and camp. And, his wife is an active volunteer as an Adventure Guides circles leader, a Partners with Youth campaigner, a Childcare Parent Advisory Committee member and a member of the Women’s Retreat Planning Committee.
One piece supporting his passion for his career work, he says, is that the organization excels at building community. Because of the YMCA’s variety of programs and because no one is refused service for inability to pay, the Y is able to change lives and build long-lasting relationships. The diversity inherent in the YMCA fosters an ability to increase understanding and empathy, traits that then benefit the greater community. “Becoming a member of the Y is the easiest way to become part of the community. You know you are part of something big.”
The Partners with Youth Campaign plays a huge part of that success, by helping to ensure no one is turned away for an inability to pay. “Raising money to support youth is critical work,” he adds, “but it also connects volunteers in some of life’s most meaningful work. It allows community leaders to take action and make a real difference for kids and families right here in Missoula.”
Favorite thing to do
Sailing with the family. “I have a great passion for the outdoors and sailing is a sport that is safe and challenging for young and old.”
Favorite YMCA community event
The Riverbank Run—and no, not just because he’s the race director. “The Riverbank Run brings such a large number of Missoulians together for one incredible moment. It creates such a sense of community.”
Fun fact
The family dog and cat look terrific in princess dresses and fairy wings.
Ann Seltzer
Director of Finance
E-mail: aseltzer@ymcamissoula.org
Ann Seltzer is a popular gal around the Missoula YMCA—after all, she’s the one everyone goes to when they need something for their program areas. And that is her favorite part of her job as the Director of Finance: fulfilling staff needs while building closer relationships with everyone.Born and raised on a wheat farm 40 miles northeast of Fort Benton, Ann and her husband relocated to Missoula so she could go to school. Now, more than 10 years later, they are settled in the Garden City with two children. Her kids are always around the Y, taking swimming lessons, going to preschool or running around in sport camps. She and her husband can be found working out with a personal trainer. “The YMCA is a great family environment,” Ann says. “It’s a great place, not only for me, but for my children to come and participate in programs and to have a sense of belonging.”
Working at the YMCA has pushed Ann out of her numbers-crunching analytical shell a bit. “I don’t feel I’m naturally outgoing but the Y has helped me to develop my skills so I feel more comfortable approaching people,” she says. Not only does she analyze data and update software, she works daily with staff members on their programs’ needs and wants, and with the board. And, she was surprised to learn how much she enjoyed banding together with a large staff to run an event. Ann was looking for a different type of working environment, and she definitely found it at the Y.
As keeper of the organization’s checkbook and financial strategic planning, Ann is intimately aware of both the community need for Y programs and services and what it takes to ensure access to everyone, regardless of income. “The YMCA does so many great things for the community,” she says. “I believe the most important thing the YMCA provides is financial assistance to those in need of high-quality childcare.”
Fun fact
Left brain and right brain, the finance chief is currently writing her first novel. (And she’s a painter.)
Favorite thing to do
Hang out with her family anywhere there is a large body of water.
Favorite YMCA community event
The Riverbank Run. “There are so many people who come out on that day to participate or support the event.” Including her kids, who run each year.
Aaron Brock
Director of Development
E-mail: abrock@ymcamissoula.org
“Every day I am surrounded by people working hard, moving fast and grinning from ear to ear.” Aaron Brock is director of development of the Missoula YMCA. “This is my dream job,” he says, and he landed it in 2009. Working with the Board of Directors and staff leadership to determine financial needs Aaron then pursues grants and fund-raising opportunities with a passion to ensure the YMCA continues to provide superior programs and financial assistance.
Connections and community are two words Aaron speaks a lot. Really a lot. His job is to help find the funds that make the Missoula YMCA function and grow. Numbers and dollars. But key for Aaron, it’s not just numbers and dollar signs. The power, Aaron says, is the connections. The connecting with people—on all sides of the fundraising—the people who provide the funds to support the Y, the staff members working the Y programs, and the members who use the Y’s programs and facilities to pursue their own healthy lifestyles.
Outside of work, connecting and community continue as threads throughout his days, whether it’s volunteer work with Garden City Harvest, a game of folf, hiking or skiing with his wife and family, joining a basketball game. He’s also an avid fly-fisherman who ties his own flies, builds rods and likes to throw a line with friends as often as possible. (Although born in Michigan, Aaron grew up in Bozeman and considers himself “a Montanan through and through” —so the homemade fly rods just make sense.) “My wife and I are busy folks who love the community and vibrant culture of Missoula,” he concludes.
And while his self-described dream job connects him to community, Aaron says it also has helped him grow. He has learned from his “day job” how to be a positive influence for young people, and how to build community through energy and enthusiasm.
Fun Fact
“It’s Greek to me” took on a whole new meaning when Aaron was in college. He spent a summer abroad where he started for the City of London University basketball team. Most of his teammates were from Greece so Greek was what they predominantly spoke on the court and during timeouts. “So, I just nodded, smiled and played hard.”
Favorite thing to do
If you’ve had a chance to meet Aaron you’ve figured out that he’s a pretty social guy. His favorite thing to do is spend time with his wife, Melanie, family and friends.
Favorite thing about the YMCA
The unique sense of community and belonging, and building relationships with those who deeply value the work done by the YMCA.
Favorite Y community event
The YMCA/Southgate Mall 3 x 3 Classic (once as a serious player, now as staff).
Roger Miller
Director of Facility & Property
E-mail: rmiller@ymcamissoula.org
Director of Aquatics. Supervisor, Adaptive/Special Olympics programming. Supervisor, Seeley-Swan Outreach YMCA. Founder, YMCA/Southgate Mall 3v3 basketball tournament. Founder, Super Grizzly polar bear swim. Senior Program Director Roger Miller doesn’t just talk the YMCA talk, he walks the walk.
Listen to Roger for a while and you hear “mission driven” and “member of our family” and “helping people who desperately need help” and “a place to call home.” Montana born and bred, and a Bobcat with a track and field scholarship, Roger has been with the YMCA most of his life and with its mission longer than that.And while he’s quite serious about all this—and about the fund raising required to ensure that the YMCA’s mission is available to all the people—he makes sure you’re having fun as you are spent from playing 3v3 hoops or getting out of an outdoor pool in the middle of a Missoula winter.From an intern at the Billings YMCA to a senior staff member in Missoula, Roger’s learned “that you should never judge or underestimate anyone.” And, he adds, from his work he’s learned “to live every day to its fullest because you may never get another one.”When not at the Y, you’ll find him outside. Preferably with his wife, Jeanne, and two teenagers—and most preferably hunting or fishing.Fun FactBefore the YMCA, he worked in the woods where he earned the nickname “Ramjet.” Really, ask him about it.Favorite YMCA community eventThe YMCA/Southgate Mall 3v3 Classic and the Super Grizzly Dip.
Senior staffer Roger Miller today serves the Missoula YMCA as director of facility and property. His previous titles include aquatics director, youth sports director, childcare director, head of adaptive/Special Olympics programming and supervisor of the Seeley-Swan Outreach YMCA. Oh, and Roger’s the founding force behind both the annual YMCA/Southgate Mall 3v3 Classic Basketball Tournament and the Super Grizzly Dip.No matter his current official job title, Roger Miller doesn’t just talk the YMCA talk, he walks the walk.
Listen to Roger for a while and you hear “mission driven” and “member of our family” and “helping people who desperately need help” and “a place to call home.” Montana born and bred, and a Bobcat with a track and field scholarship, Roger has been with the YMCA most of his life and with its mission longer than that.
And while he’s quite serious about all this—and about the fund raising required to ensure that the YMCA’s mission is available to all the people—he makes sure you’re having fun as you are spent from playing 3v3 hoops or getting out of an outdoor pool in the middle of a Missoula winter.
From an intern at the Billings YMCA to a senior staff member in Missoula, Roger’s learned “that you should never judge or underestimate anyone.” And, he adds, from his work he’s learned “to live every day to its fullest because you may never get another one.”
When not at the Y, you’ll find him outside. Preferably with his wife, Jeanne, and two teenagers—and most preferably hunting or fishing.
Fun fact:
Before the YMCA, he worked in the woods where he earned the nickname “Ramjet.” Really, ask him about it.
Favorite YMCA community event:
The YMCA/Southgate Mall 3v3 Classic and the Super Grizzly Dip.
Kelli Hess
Senior Director of Youth Programs
E-mail: khess@ymcamissoula.org
Family is a major deal in Kelli Hess’s life; the major deal actually. Whether she’s at home or at work, she always has family on her mind. “The YMCA is an extension of my family,” Kelli says. “Our YMCA is an incredible service organization and I’m proud to be part of it.”As the senior program director of childcare and camps, Kelli has her share of organizational meetings and paperwork, but she gets to spend a good part of her day around children—rocking babies to sleep, playing with campers or helping kids with their homework after school. “Working with kids is exciting and unique every day,” she says. After a day at the office, she gets to go home and spend time with her family, including her husband, Erik, and three young children. And her “perfect afternoon”? Kids on her lap reading a book, with a batch of cookies baking in the oven.
Kelli came to the YMCA via an internship for the Riverbank Run. “I needed a few more credits to complete one of my degrees and the Riverbank Run project was a good fit,” she says. That was back in 2000—little did she know that internship would turn into her full-time career. “My heart will always be connected to the Riverbank Run because that’s where I got my start.”
Kelli takes a lot of pride in her job and all that the Y does for the community. “Quality affordable childcare is the most important program we offer the community,” she says. “Having a safe, loving and healthy place to leave your kids while you go to work is a critical piece of the working family’s success.”
The whole family takes advantage of the all the Y has to offer—beyond the childcare center where Kelli’s kids spend their weekdays, the family can be found at the pool. Kelli also loves to take cycling classes in the Health & Wellness Center.
“Our YMCA is a very welcoming place,” says Kelli. “If you are looking for a meaningful experience that can make a difference in our community, the YMCA is a great place to get involved.”
Fun fact
Kelli has 72 first cousins.
Favorite thing to do
Spend time playing with her children.
Favorite thing about the YMCA
Getting to know all the families that come to the YMCA.
Favorite YMCA community event
It’s a toss up for Kelli between the Riverbank Run and the Father-Daughter Sweetheart Dance.
Kim Haugen
Membership & Marketing Director
E-mail: khaugen@ymcamissoula.org
Kim Haugen still remembers the days when the YMCA was confined to the little yellow building you might now recognize as the YMCA Development Center. And when the Y grew from that small space into the big brick facility next door, Kim knew she wanted to be a part of it. She started at the YMCA as a swimming instructor and lifeguard in 1988. “I love kids and I love water,” Kim says. “Being able to combine the two at the YMCA seemed like the perfect fit for me.”Twenty-some years later, you can still find Kim at the YMCA, although she’s wearing a very different uniform—and one with multiple hats. As the Membership & Marketing director, Kim oversees membership, the Welcome Center, the climbing wall, the Child Watch Center and marketing. So, during any particular day she helps plan future events, works with community partners, recruits staff, tours visitors and prospective members, prepares budgets, and supervises every piece of information that goes out about the Y and its programs.
When Kim isn’t busy at work, this mom and foster mom tries to find the time to sweat on a treadmill or jump back in the pool for a water aerobics class. Her daughter loves the YMusic programs where she takes guitar and voice lessons. Her parents exercise at Ys across the country on their travels. And, her large extended family helps man the finish line at each year’s Riverbank Run.
“I love everything about the Y—from the members and community participants we serve to the difference we make in people’s lives,” she says. “But most of all, I love watching Y-kids grow up to be responsible adults who give back to the YMCA as volunteers, coaches, camp counselors, swimming instructors, Welcome Center staff or program directors.”
“The most important thing we provide for the community is opportunity,” Kim says. “Everyone, regardless of age, ability or income, can be a part of the YMCA. For some that may mean the opportunity to learn about living a healthy lifestyle, for others the chance to learn to swim, and still for others, the opportunity to find friendship, safety and acceptance.”
The Y also offers a multitude of opportunities to volunteer. “I believe that by volunteering and/or working at the YMCA, we grow as individuals,” she says. “Not only do we grow because we serve others, but we grow because we get the opportunity to meet new people, learn new skills and share our talents.”
Kim isn’t easily surprised, but every day she feels thankful she works at the YMCA. “The YMCA is in my blood,” she says. “I will always be a part of it.”
Fun fact:
“If I was independently wealthy I’d have a whole house full of foster children and be a stay-at-home mom!”
Favorite thing(s) to do:
Be with her (large extended) family. Be in the water. Be on a roller coaster.
Favorite YMCA community event:
The annual Father-Daughter Sweetheart Dance. “My dad and I have always been close and this event reminds me of so many fond childhood memories.”
Kara Sarton
Director of Community Music
E-mail: ksarton@ymcamissoula.org
Of Kara Sarton’s three lines of passion and academic study — writing, music and philosophy — it seems that all three stand on equal footing.Kara initially moved from Lake Geneva, Wis., to Bozeman to study music performance and composition, English, and philosophy at Montana State University. In 2007, she moved to Missoula after being accepted to the master’s program in philosophy at The University of Montana. Today, Kara is the YMCA’s director of Community Music and lives a life that is continuously centered in the arts.
“My day at work is spent enhancing existing programs and developing ideas for future programs,” Kara says. “My favorite aspect of my work is to share the love of this art with our community and to help others learn to experience and create music.” She believes in working for the YMCA because it “provides an incredibly diverse network of staff, participants and opportunities that ensure that any member of this community has a place they can truly belong.”
A classically trained violinist, who maintains a private studio, Kara performs with the Missoula Symphony and the Helena Symphony orchestras.
Fun Fact:
She’s writing a science fiction novel.
More Fun Fact:
Kara’s heroes: Bob Dylan, Mary Cassatt, Nancy Drew and writer Charles Bukowski.
Favorite thing(s) to do:
Impressionist art, music without words, and the outdoors. Kara also loves to sail.
Mary Voelz
Director of Adaptive & Special Olympics
E-mail: mvoelz@ymcamissoula.org
Mary Voelz is one of those lucky people who discovered their calling at a young age. She knew she loved sports, the outdoors and working with people who have disabilities. Her passion comes from love for her cousin Grace, who was diagnosed with a disability at a young age. When Mary was 10, she taught Grace to ride her bike. “I remember that moment and marvel at the determination she had to go beyond her physical limitations to learn something she never thought she could do,” she says.Mary was inspired so she got her college degree in Recreation Management and Adaptive Physical Activity at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC. After college, she put her degree to work on the slopes of Colorado as an Adaptive Ski Pro for Challenge Aspen where she taught Grace to ski. Eventually Mary found her way to Missoula and to the YMCA where she serves as the director of adaptive and Special Olympics. “Our YMCA recognizes the local need for targeted programs for people with disabilities through a unique partnership with Special Olympics Montana,” Mary says. “That partnership is so strong that I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.”
Typical day? What’s that? The season dictates what she’s doing, whether it’s coaching athletes or administrative work or training volunteers. Sometimes she can be found on a local ski hill coaching the ski team or in the gym teaching a new sport. And then there are the meetings and planning that go into running programs and events. “I work here because I believe in our mission and understand the importance that the Y plays in our community and the people that live here,” Mary says. “I have always enjoyed working with individuals from all different walks of life. Not only do we serve people from all incomes, ages and abilities, but we are also committed to promoting healthy lifestyles through our programs and services.”
Originally from Columbus, Indiana, Mary found Montana after she took a summer job at a ranch on Flathead Lake. She had to stay. “My dream was always to work year-round in a mountain town empowering people with disabilities and to be to able to enjoy the lifestyle that only mountains can bring,” Mary says. “Adults need playgrounds too!” Mary takes advantage of all Montana has to offer—trail running, snow sports, backpacking, rafting, fishing … the list goes on for a while.
Fun fact:
The long and winding road—Mary has worked in five different states but plans on calling Montana her forever home.
Favorite thing to do:
Anything outside.
Favorite YMCA community event:
The Area Special Olympics Spring Games (obviously)! More than 200 volunteers help make the Five Valleys Area Special Olympics possible for the more than 300 athletes. The Games wouldn’t exist without all the volunteers and all those athletes from the Five Valleys Area!
Amanda Andrews
Director of Health & Wellness
E-mail: aandrews@ymcamissoula.org
Amanda Andrews joined the Missoula Family YMCA after working in the intense world of a St. Patrick Hospital medical social worker focused on patients in the trauma, neurology and orthopedics departments. “I was ready to apply my skills and knowledge to the more proactive side of health care,” she says. As director of the YMCA’s Health & Wellness Center, she’s there. “Caring for our bodies, our spirits, our families and creating connections with others are the foundations of a healthy community,” Amanda says. “I am excited to be working in a place that fosters all of those values.”“It has surprised me how open and caring everyone is here, they truly want to help people achieve their goals,” continues Amanda, who joined the YMCA staff in March 2010. “I have never been involved with such a proactive group. The team around here gets things done, very well and very quickly!”
With a bachelor’s degree in social work from The University of Montana, Amanda adds that she especially enjoys working with and supporting “those who might be struggling to maintain a healthy lifestyle.”
For herself, Amanda participates in the YMCA’s yoga, Pilates and TAZ classes and hopes to become a certified instructor herself. Outside, she hikes, camps and plays with her Maltese, Noah. “My YMCA experience has inspired me to make an even deeper commitment to a healthy lifestyle.”
Beyond the YMCA’s commitment to supporting individuals and the community locally, Amanda is highly excited by the Missoula organization’s efforts globally, starting with its work in Sierra Leone, Africa.
Fun Fact:
Ask her how the kid from landlocked Livingston became a certified scuba diver with experience in the Caribbean.
Favorite thing to do:
Traveling, specifically eco-tourism.
Paula Barber
Director of Human Resources
E-mail: pbarber@ymcamissoula.org
About 2008, Paula Barber and her husband, Ken, bought a vacation house in Seeley Lake that they thought would be the perfect vacation home that they would retire to when they finished their careers in Boise, Idaho … in a few years. So much for that timetable. While Ken finishes up his work in Boise and recruits his replacement, Paula on March 19, 2010, moved into a new full-time position as the Missoula Family YMCA’s director of human resources. It was just too good an opportunity to pass up, she says.Her work here will encompass the full range of HR activities — recruiting through separation, staff training/development, employee benefits, employee relations and more; the priorities of her work and “burning issues” will evolve over time, she says.
While pretty brand new to the YMCA and the Missoula area, “so far I am totally impressed with the organization,” she says. “We provide great services for people in a family-oriented, family-friendly environment. I belonged to a gym when we lived in Atlanta, the atmosphere there was unfriendly and not family oriented at all.”
Since earning her Bachelor of Science degree in business from the University of Southern Maine, and a stint in sales work, she and Ken followed career moves across the country. Paula has worked in human resources in Maine, metro-Portland, Ore., and Boise (she’s also lived in Atlanta and Phoenix). Paula also has her Senior Professional HR certification. She’s worked in the paper, high tech, banking, medical/hospital and nonprofit industries. Most recently, in Boise she ran her own recruiting business and was an adjunct professor teaching Introduction to Human Resources Management at Boise State University. After years of teaching staff trainings of all kinds, Paula found herself quite enjoying the step to the university level … and perhaps some future day will find herself at The University of Montana?
One motivation for the home in Seeley, she says, is their love of the outdoors. Ken is the avid upland game bird hunter of the family, but Paula is the dog trainer. Of her three Brittany Spaniels, one is a titled field champion, master hunter and certified hospital therapy dog. And of her three horses, two she rescued out of abusive situations; one she trained as a therapy horse who has moved to a new home with a woman with MS. Her two remaining horses are scheduled to move to Seeley Lake in time for summer rides in the mountains.
The YMCA also supports her desire to “give back” and “make a difference in people’s lives.”
So she’s busy with life and busy with creating her new office, but when she calls herself “a boring workaholic,” smile and reply, “I think not.”
Fun Fact:
While she sings and plays piano, Paula leaves the public performances to Ken, who plays acoustic guitar and sings, and to her sister, a classically trained pianist.
More Fun Fact:
Listen to her — you won’t know she lived her first 26 years in rural Maine.
Favorite thing(s) to do:
Cross-country skiing, watching baseball and basketball games, working out in the Health & Wellness Center, music, reading, gardening and hanging out with Ken and the animals.
Jamie Breidenbach
Associate Director of Youth Development and Day Camp
E-mail: jbreidenbach@ymcamissoula.org
She’s been a YMCA camp counselor and instructor, she’s been YMCA before-school and after-school club staff, she played Y soccer and learned to swim in the Y pool … and today Jamie Breidenbach has command of the desk of the associate director of Youth Development and Day Camp. That makes her responsible for the Missoula Family YMCA’s youth development programs including Youth and Government, YAchievers, Teen Leaders Club and the all-loud all-fun Middle School Dances—and, she’ll play a big role in summer day camp programs Camp Tepeetonka and Camp Broken Arrow.“There will be no ‘typical day’ I’m sure!” she says.
Born and raised Missoula, Jamie attended Hellgate High School, then went to Western Washington University where she earned a degree in Recreation Management. Even away from home, Jamie found herself staying YMCA-connected. After a stint in Christchurch, New Zealand, working as an outdoor instructor at the YMCA there, Jamie is back home in Missoula, not just to be with her local extended family, but, she says, “The stars here are incredible!”
The YMCA is a terrific opportunity for volunteers, Jamie adds. “No matter what you enjoy or are good at, there is a job for you. The Y’s a great organization because you are able to help serve the Missoula community in so many positive ways.”
After work, you might find Jamie lifting weights in the Health &Wellness Center or on any soccer field—she plays in Missoula’s women’s summer league with her mom and sister. Or with her cat, Kiesha, or with her dog, well, it is her sister’s dog but sister’s away at college.
Fun fact:
She’s a landlady.
Favorite things to do:
Soccer, hiking, horseback riding … Jamie balances out her athletic activities with other forms of creativity: making jewelry, painting, coloring and “making things out of clay.”
Favorite Y community event:
The Riverbank Run. “It’s a great way to bring community together in a fun and healthy activity.”
Katie Brasington
Associate Director of Early Childcare - Development Center
E-mail: kbrasington@ymcamissoula.org
“A typical day for me is filled with little kids’ hugs, hellos and unfortunately, some snotty noses!” says Katie Brasington. Dealing with runny noses is just part of the day at the YMCA Development Center where Katie serves as associate director of early childcare. But the hugs and smiles, art works and songs more than make up for it.Katie first started working with the YMCA in 2001 as a summer camp counselor. She knew she wanted to work at a community-based organization and with kids, so Y childcare is a perfect fit. “The YMCA is a truly great place to work,” she says. “Not only have I met some amazing people, I’ve made some lifelong friends.”
The best part of Katie’s job at the Y? Watching generations of children grow up right before her eyes. “I now know high school kids who were kindergarteners when I started,” Katie says. And no, that doesn’t make her feel old—maybe it’s all the giggling going on around her. “The YMCA has been like family to so many people, including me.”
Originally from Great Falls, Katie lives in Missoula with her husband and three crazy border collies. She loves getting her hands dirty out in the garden, or just spending time with her family, canine or human.
Fun fact
Katie loves gossip magazines. Don’t worry Katie, nobody is judging.
Favorite thing about the YMCA
“All the kids, family and staff I see every day."
Favorite YMCA community event
Y Healthy Kids’ Day. “I especially like the characters who visit during the event,” says Katie, who harbors a special fondness for a certain big red dog.
Nanette Melzer
Associate Director of Early Childcare - Learning Center
E-mail: nmelzer@ymcamissoula.org
All the YMCA childcare staff members agree: no two days are ever alike. And they are never boring, adds Nanette Melzer, associate director of early childcare at the new Palmer Street YMCA Learning Center. She spends her days overseeing the daily aspects of the childcare program, teaching the children and interacting with parents. Not one day passes without a new challenge, she says.Nanette’s favorite part of her job is teaching. “I am constantly amazed at the children’s development,” she says, and she likes being involved with that. “Our program has such a great family feel,” she adds. “We lay the crucial core values that build the foundations for their futures. It’s an incredible feeling to be part of that.”
The YMCA’s commitment to serve the community is what impressed Nanette the most about the organization. “The Y—and I—strongly believe that every child deserves the highest quality early education,” she says. “And we strive to make that possible.” The Y meets the needs of the Missoula community and never turns anyone away, she adds. “The YMCA truly believes in its mission. I take pride in my work and I am excited about the opportunity to share my passion for child development and in return learn so much from members of the Y family.”
Nanette knew that when she moved to Missoula, she found her home away from home.Originally from around Frankfurt, Germany, Nanette has lived in Missoula since 1994 and is glad to be able to raise her son and daughter in Montana.They were Y members when the kids were little soccer players. Now, with a BA in Early Childhood Education, a minor in Social Work obtained overseas, and more than 20 years of early childhood education experience, Nanette as of June 2009 is back at the YMCA as a program administrator, teacher and Y family member. This time around the kids are old enough to work out with her in the Health & Wellness Center. Her daughter also participated in climbing and babysitting camps and loved both of them. “The Y is such positive place,” Nanette says. “There is a wonderful variety of programs available to all ages and everyone is friendly and welcoming.”
Since joining the Y staff, “I have begun to review my lifestyle and re-dedicate myself to leading a healthy life and to pass that on to my children. I look forward to being a part of the YMCA as an organization, its culture, new experiences, and new friendships.”
Fun fact
Although she speaks English, Nanette often thinks and always counts in German.
Favorite thing(s) to do
Spend time with her children, hike the M, work out, learn about baseball, read and do Suduko puzzles (remember, she counts in German).
Favorite YMCA community event
The Riverbank Run. The 2009 event was this runner’s first exposure to the annual event.
Karen Hamilton
Associate Director of School Age Care
E-mail: khamilton@ymcamissoula.org
Karen Hamilton gets to spend her days at the YMCA surrounded by kids, parents, counselors, paperwork, graham crackers, timesheets, meetings, meetings about timesheets and googley eyes. It’s a wacky combination but that’s what makes her job as the associate director of school age care so great. And she never has the same day twice!
“I love my job—the hours, pace, atmosphere, the kids!, all the creative outlets, the leadership development opportunities,” Karen says. “But what has really made an impression on me and keeps me here is the way the YMCA has treated me like family.”
And it’s not just her, she notes. While Karen focuses on school-age kids, daily she sees the full range of people who come to the Y for programs and fitness opportunities. The YMCA each day exudes sense of community for everyone and that, in her opinion, is the organization’s greatest gift. “A place to belong,” she says. “Feeling unwanted is the greatest poverty.”
Like many people, Karen came to Missoula for a summer and stayed. She was headed to Tennessee to get her master’s degree in education, but fell in love with the mountains, her husband, Dan, and the YMCA. “I am fascinated by children’s social and intellectual development,” says Karen, who has found her place to belong. “I am continually enthralled watching kids growing into the people they will be.” And, she notes, the work inspires her to keep growing herself “mentally, spiritually and physically—and to focus on service.”
Fun fact:
She loves her Y kids, but Karen really loves Gary, the cartoon pet snail of SpongeBob SquarePants. “He’s inquisitive, curious and always ready to learn something new. I think Gary has a winning attitude!”
Favorite thing(s) to do:
Talk about books—even more than she likes to read them.
Favorite YMCA community event:
Jamophilia! Because it’s inspiring to hear awesome music!”
Amber Taylor
Associate Director of Membership
E-mail: ataylor@ymcamissoula.org
Amber Taylor didn’t know the depths of her passion for the Y until she made her way downstairs—literally—and into her position as the associate director of membership. She started as an intern in the second floor Health & Wellness Center, found she really had a drive for the Y’s programming and has stayed for more than 10 years.A typical day for Amber starts with bringing coffee and muffins for her morning staff, then she’s off—supervising, meeting and greeting, touring, registering, supporting, managing membership financial paperwork and more. Oh, and “other duties as assigned” whenever they come her way. “Working at the Y isn’t just a job,” says Amber. “It’s a relationship and every day is a new day.”
Amber looks at and pays attention to relationships. She pays attention at the detailed level of an individual new Y member or a friend. She also takes in the larger views, paying attention to her relationship within the YMCA family, the Missoula community, the greater world community and beyond that her religious belief. She talks of relationships at all levels and of fostering growth. The YMCA is one big supportive community that provides a “safe environment for kids and families to grow together,” Amber says, as well as a safe place for those with financial difficulties. Just meeting new people every day expands her, Amber notes, but she continues that that part of her job description has opened numerous and important lifelong friendships. “I think the Y also grows staff into community leaders, and that’s very important.”
Amber’s always looking for a new face—member, volunteer or staff. “There really is something for everyone at the Y,” she says. “Whether you are a volunteer or a member, you will develop lifelong relationships and have opportunities for personal growth, as well as discover new interests.”
Amber’s taken what she’s learned at the Y global—all the way to Guinea, Africa, on a mission trip summer of 2007. “I didn’t go because of my job,” she says. “I went because I have been blessed and I wanted to thank my God.” She wanted to give back, with thanks, to that larger community. Returning home with memories and stories—and none of the clothes or other material items she left Missoula with—Amber says she also returned with deeper faith and a deeper sense of wanting to pay attention all the time. “After coming home, I realized that I truly didn’t see people before. …The trip did impact my job because I now have a deeper connection with people.”
If you’ve met Amber, you know that when you walk in through the YMCA doors you’ll be greeted with her ready smile and her honest support that makes you feel that, no matter how your life is going right then, that this day you might just add another set of weights or swim a little farther.
Hailing from Stanford, Mont., Amber made her way to Missoula where she got her degree in Health Promotion from The University of Montana. The child of a beekeeper and an artist, Amber loves to fish, hike and camp … and to play (often through injury) basketball, volleyball and softball.
Fun fact:
Amber made up more than 10% of her graduating high school class (there were nine kids total).
Favorite thing to do:
Amber loves to spend time with her family and friends and be active. You’ll often find her swimming or in the Health & Wellness Center either biking or lifting weights.
Favorite thing about the YMCA:
Meeting new people. “Over the years I have met so many people that have become good friends and have invested in my life.”
Favorite YMCA community event:
“Hands down, the Riverbank Run!” Amber says citing the incredible work hours required, the volunteers, the 3,500 runners and the funds raised to ensure access to all the Y’s programs.
Daurine Spritzer
Administrative Assistant
E-mail: dspritzer@ymcamissoula.org
Who knew that when Daurine Spritzer was looking for a new job back in 1983, she would find the perfect career for her at the YMCA? But she did. And she’s been with the Y ever since. She likes the hours and the staff, and she likes that the work is focused on youth and community health. And, she adds, “working at the YMCA has provided me with the opportunity to meet and make friends with people from all walks of life.”“I’ve learned that people are people, regardless of how much money they have or don’t have, what their physical capabilities are, they all have feelings and want to be recognized as individuals,” Daurine says. “Here at the Y, you can come into a friendly, welcoming facility where you can do a workout, meet new people and not have to be spandex-ready to do so.”
Though her job description centers on helping the CEO and management staff, she is also an invaluable part of running events. Daurine is one of the go-to volunteers. She has taken that spirit of service outside the YMCA to the Mount Jumbo West Little League. In fact, her two favorite hobbies are helping out with Little League and the Special Olympics.
Originally from Walkerville, Montana (a little city at the top of the richest hill on earth - Butte, America), Daurine has lived in Missoula since 1970. She and her husband have three children and five grandchildren. That’s her immediate family. Every kid who ever played ball in the Mount Jumbo West Little League can be counted like an adopted niece or nephew, she knows every name (really, she does).
Fun fact:
Daurine has a baseball field named after her at Hellgate Elementary School. And she thought there were no fun facts about herself.
Favorite YMCA community event:
Father-Daughter Sweetheart Dance. “It gives fathers an opportunity to spend a special evening with their daughters. The expressions on the little girls’ faces are priceless as they are so very proud just to be with their dad for an evening.”
