Mission Moments

Even though Helen is an avid runner—often using the Riverfront Y as a quick pit stop—she laughingly admits that she and her husband, Larry, are not “big gym people.” Instead, their connection with the Y goes much deeper. As Larry explains, “It’s become an extension of our family.”

If you know Wally Reed, it won’t surprise you that her high-German birth name, Waltraut, means “mighty strength.” She is, indeed, strong.

Jill Kolesar, President and CEO of the Akron Area YMCA, has announced her plans to retire in June 2026, bringing to a close an inspiring 38-year journey with the Y that began with her service as a volunteer at the Riverfront YMCA in Cuyahoga Falls.

"When I first moved here, I had feelings of excitement and anxiety - well, the anxiety may have been greater," said Yuriko Takase, who came to the United States from Japan earlier this year.The family of five made the 6,500-mile journey for Yuriko's husband, Dr. Koki Takase, who started a new job in Macedonia, Ohio.