Meet YMCA Member: Christina C.

Christina Colman's YMCA story began 30 years ago at the Mason City YMCA in Iowa. Today, she's a lifeguard and lifeguard instructor who frequently can be found working out at the YMCA.

In addition to being a lifeguard and lifeguard instructor, Christina is also an athlete, PE teacher, and coach. She's passionate about being fit and healthy, both physically and mentally, and she shares her convictions daily with her students not only by explanation, but by living it all day with grace and enjoyment. For her, the Y is an organization that shares these same values and has been a perfect fit for her.

Since YMCA members have access to hundreds of YMCAs across the country and in Puerto Rico thanks to the Nationwide Membership program, they're able to enjoy the Y even when they're away from home. On a recent trip to Missoula, Christina was able to continue her physical wellbeing at the Missoula Family YMCA.

"I'm a triathlete, so I'm always training for something," she explained. "At the Missoula Y, I was able to swim, lift, ride, and meet some new friends."

Christina's first impression of the Missoula Y was being greeted by Bill, a member of the Y's Welcome Center.

"I'll surely remember his upbeat attitude and sense of fun!" she said. "I love the way he greets and says goodbye to everyone."

She also has fond memories of Dennis Bender, another staff member.

"I'm an Iron Woman finisher and Dennis is an Iron Man finisher, so that's neat," she said. "I'm training now with the hopes of qualifying for the Boston Marathon. Dennis actually keeps the qualifying times in his billford, which I love."

While Christina is now back home in the Midwest, she hopes to visit Missoula again soon and will, of course, stop by the Missoula Y.

"I've come to understand that the YMCA offers so much more than a place to workout at," she said. "It's a place for everyone to learn, socialize, play, sweat, laugh, and meet new friends."