About the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon

Now in its 54th year, the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon is one of the region’s longest-running road races. The event features a full marathon, half marathon, and four-person relay, offering participants of varying experience levels a chance to take on a challenge.

Known for its fast, flat course, the race winds through Harrisburg’s urban streets, scenic riverfront, wooded paths, and bridges. The marathon is also a Boston Marathon qualifier, attracting runners seeking a qualifying time as well as those competing for a personal best or a community experience.

“For 54 years, the YMCA Harrisburg Marathon has brought people together through a shared love of running, personal achievement, and community,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “Events like this reflect what the Y is all about: creating opportunities for people to challenge themselves, build connections, and be part of something bigger than themselves. We are proud to continue this tradition in Harrisburg and grateful to our sponsors, volunteers, and community members who make race day possible.”

Community Involvement

Beyond the miles covered on race day, the event reflects the Harrisburg Area YMCA’s commitment to bringing people together and strengthening the communities it serves. Through its year-round programs and services, the Y works to ensure individuals and families have opportunities to grow, connect, and thrive, regardless of age, income, or background.

“As proud members of the Harrisburg community, we are honored to support the YMCA Marathon as a Premier Sponsor,” said Andy Enders, President of Enders Insurance. “We believe in the power of community and are excited to contribute to the energy and spirit that make this event and our city so special.”

The funding will support an elevator installation project at the historic East Shore Branch YMCA, planned facility renovations at the Friendship Branch YMCA, and selective demolition within the West Shore Branch YMCA.

“We sincerely thank Representative Davidson, Representative Fleming, and Senator Kim for their support of these investments in the Harrisburg Area YMCA,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “The funding will help improve accessibility at our historic East Shore YMCA and advance critical facility enhancements at the Friendship YMCA, ensuring we can continue providing high-quality programs and services.”

“We are also immensely grateful to Senator Rothman and Representative Delozier for their support in the West Shore YMCA renovation project, which will help us create a more welcoming and accessible space that better serves everyone who walks through our doors,” said Ozmore.

Investing in the East Shore YMCA

The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $800,000 in funding to support the installation of a new elevator at the East Shore Branch YMCA. A new elevator will improve the building’s ADA accessibility, enhance safety for members and visitors, support emergency response access, and improve operational efficiency throughout the facility.

This project represents the first phase of a broader renovation strategy designed to expand transitional housing services for those experiencing homelessness in the city, while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the historic building.

“These investments reflect a commitment to strengthening community spaces that serve residents of all ages and abilities,” said Senator Patty Kim. “By improving accessibility at the historic East Shore YMCA and expanding programming capacity at the Friendship YMCA, these projects will create lasting benefits for children, families, seniors, and the broader Harrisburg region.”

Investing in the Friendship YMCA

The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $300,000 in funding to support the planned expansion of the Friendship Branch YMCA.

The Friendship YMCA serves thousands of community members annually through youth sports, childcare, wellness, and senior programming. The planned expansion will create additional capacity for youth mentoring, after-school activities, workforce development opportunities, health education programs, and social engagement initiatives for older adults.

“The Friendship YMCA provides valuable programs and services that strengthen families, support young people, and create opportunities for older adults to stay active and engaged,” said Representative Justin Fleming. “This funding will help expand the facility’s capacity and ensure the YMCA can continue meeting the growing needs of our community for years to come.”

Investing in West Shore YMCA

The Harrisburg Area YMCA was awarded $273,000 in funding to support extensive renovations at the West Shore Branch YMCA. “This investment is an important first step in reimagining the West Shore YMCA for future generations,” said Ozmore.

The planned improvements will reconfigure the entrance lobby, childcare areas, administrative offices, locker rooms, and fitness spaces, preparing the site to better accommodate growing participation and changing program needs.

“The West Shore YMCA is a hub for a community activity, providing needed spaces, important services, and valuable opportunities,” said Greg Rothman. “Upgrading a facility that thousands of residents rely on each year strengthens public health, supports local families, and enhances the region’s overall quality of life.”

The Statewide Local Share Account Program is administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority and supports community and economic development projects that improve quality of life for Pennsylvanians.

Founded in Pennsylvania by brothers John and Chris Trogner in 1996, Tröegs Independent Brewing has been built by family, friends, and kindred spirits who share a love of great beer. “We’re drawn to people with a sense of adventure,” said co-founder and brewmaster John Trogner. “And we think they’re drawn to Tröegs”.

As the premier sponsor, Tröegs is helping make this event possible while supporting the YMCA’s mission to strengthen the health and well-being of individuals and families throughout the community.

About the Race

The YMCA Hop Dash 5K Presented by Tröegs offers participants the opportunity to run or walk a scenic course around the brewery grounds. After crossing the finish line, participants can enjoy food and games, along with post-race awards recognizing the event’s best costumes. Registration includes a race bib, race shirt, custom finisher medal, and finish line photos. Participants 21 and older will also receive vouchers for 2 free craft beers, provided by Tröegs Independent Brewing.

“The YMCA Hop Dash 5K is a great example of how fitness and community can come together in a fun and memorable wat,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “Participants can challenge themselves on the course, enjoy time with friends and family, and give back to the YMCA.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau data, millions nationwide still don’t have access to the internet or connected devices needed to full participate in the online world, an issue known as the digital divide.

“The Harrisburg Area YMCA Laptop Distribution Program helped me tremendously, not only academically but also artistically,” said Sanai Lester, a student at the Capital Area School for the Arts. “The laptop allowed me to grow as a student, a filmmaker, and a photographer. I am really thankful for the Harrisburg Area YMCA Laptop Distribution program. Without the program, I would not be the student and artist I am today.”

The effort is part of AT&T’s initiative to help address the digital divide through internet accessibility, affordability and safe adoption. AT&T is committing $5 billion to help 25 million people get and stay connected to high-speed internet by 2030. This includes distributing more than 3,400 computers to students and their families across Pennsylvania since 2021, including 50 to the Harrisburg Area YMCA last year. AT&T will distribute 30,000 laptops nationwide in 2026.

“At AT&T, we’re working with community organizations in Pennsylvania and across the country to help equip students and families with the tools and resources that are vitally important in the digital age,” said David Kerr, president, AT&T Pennsylvania. “That’s why we are proud to once again team up with the Harrisburg Area YMCA and Human I-T to help close the digital divide in the Harrisburg area and prepare students for a successful school year ahead.”

The PA Dairymen’s Association is the oldest dairy group in Pennsylvania, serving iconic milkshakes at the PA Farm Show since 1953 while also giving back to local organizations, corporate partners, and food banks since 2015.

“The PA Dairymen’s Association is proud to once again be the title sponsor of the YMCA Milkshake Mile,” said Dave Smith, Executive Director of the PA Dairymen’s Association. “We love partnering with the YMCA to bring the community together for a fun event that promotes health and supports the important programs they provide throughout our region.”

The YMCA Milkshake Mile Presented by PA Dairymen’s Association features a one-mile course around HACC’s Harrisburg campus. The race will kick off with a fun run/walk with a rolling start at 10:00 AM. Age-group heats will begin at 10:50 AM, leading up to the last Milkshake Mile Relay at 11:50 AM.

All participants will receive a commemorative race shirt, race bib, and post-race milkshake (vanilla, chocolate, or twist) from the PA Dairymen’s Association. The top three finishers in each age group will also receive a unique LEGO trophy designed to resemble a milkshake.

“We’re excited to build on the success of last year’s event by expanding our race-day activities and offering even more opportunities to support local students and families,” said David Ozmore, President and CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “Events like the Milkshake Mile reflect what the Y is about–strengthening our community, bringing people together, and inspiring health habits.”

After finishing the race, participants can enjoy family-friendly activities in the Kids Zone and an assortment of free back-to-school giveaways:

• Book giveaway: New and gently used books for readers ages 0-16 will be available for youth participants to take home.
• Bike giveaway: Thanks to community partnerships with Can’d Aid, Magnum, and The GIANT Company, two new youth bikes will be raffled off. Raffle tickets are reserved for kids ages 5-9 in need of a bike.
• Backpack giveaway: A backpack giveaway station will be set up on race day. The first 200 youth registrants will receive a backpack to use for the new school year. Kids will collect a backpack from the station, then fill it with school supplies by selecting a notebook, pencil, water bottle sticker, keychain, and several books.

All proceeds from the YMCA Milkshake Mile Presented by PA Dairymen’s Association benefit the Friendship YMCA Impact Fund, helping to ensure that everyone in the community has access to YMCA programs and services, regardless of financial circumstances.

The race follows a one-mile USA Track and Field-certified course along Front Street, from the starting line at Maclay Street to the finish line near Boas Street. The post-race celebration and Kids Zone will be held at Riverfront Park during the race, on Front Street next to the finish line. Food and refreshments will be available throughout the event for attendees. Nine different mile heats are being offered, including the Elite Mile, Just for Fun Mile/Walk, Half Pant Half Mile, and the annual Corporate Challenge. New in 2026, the Salute and Survive Walk hosts veterans and cancer survivors for a free quarter-mile walk in celebration of their service and resilience.

The YMCA Harrisburg Mile Presented by First National Bank is packed full of fun for the whole family. During the Fun Run, kids of all ages run while DJs play music at the finish line. The Corporate Challenge heats are a popular way to challenge your peers to hit the road! Whether it’s finishing the race or winning the race outright, heats will be filled with runners looking to reach their personal goals. If you’re participating or spectating, each heat is exciting and inspiring. For our 45th year, we will offer a limited-edition finisher medal to all participants.

The 2026 YMCA Harrisburg Mile is in its twelfth year with First National Bank (FNB) as the Premier sponsor. FNB, the largest subsidiary of F.N.B. Corporation (NYSE: FNB) and one of the region’s leading full-service banks, has more than 350 location across Pennsylvania, Ohio, Maryland, West Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Washington, D.C., and Virginia. FNB offers a comprehensive suite of financial solutions, including traditional banking services, commercial banking, wealth management, insurance, private banking, and leading-edge online and mobile banking tools. Learn more at fnb-online.com. Equal Housing Lender, Member FDIC.

“FNB is proud to return as the Premier sponsor of the YMCA Harrisburg Mile. Partnering with the YMCA allows us to celebrate an event that unites our community while reinforcing our joint commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the region. Through supporting events like this, investing in community development initiatives, and increasing access to financial services, FNB strives to cultivate growth in neighborhoods throughout our footprint,” said Tony Sacco, Regional Market Executive and President of First National Bank’s Capital Region.

The event will showcase significant facility improvements designed to better serve youth, families, and the Harrisburg community. Renovations include the installation of HVAC and air conditioning in the basketball gym, the creation of a new teen technology center, a teaching kitchen for nutrition and life skills education, and updated community spaces that are more welcoming, accessible, and functional.

“These renovations represent an investment in the future of our community,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA. “From expanded opportunities for teens to improved spaces for programs and gatherings, the Camp Curtin YMCA is better equipped than ever to serve the families who rely on us every day.”

Coach Cam’s “Make A Layup” Annual Community Day will offer family-friendly activities, basketball games, local vendors, and opportunities for community members to connect while celebrating Coach Cam’s impact on generations of youth and families through his service as a former athletics coach at the Camp Curtin YMCA.

“This celebration is more than event; it is a reflection of the love Coach Cam poured into this neighborhood, the hope he inspired in our youth, and the standard of excellence he set for all of us who serve,” said Richard Utley, Board Chair of the Camp Curtin YMCA Board of Managers. “In that same spirit, we are grateful that the renovations to the Camp Curtin YMCA have now been completed, allowing us to enhance our programs, expand our reach, and further serve the community he cared for so deeply. These improvements stand as a testament to our commitment to carry his work forward with excellence. We gather not only to remember him, but to continue the work he started.”

This new addition to the YMCA gives members access even when Strawberry Square is closed. Free on-street parking is available weekdays before 8:00 am and after 5:00 pm, and all day on Sundays. Shower facilities and short-term lockers are available to all members.

“We welcome the Harrisburg Area YMCA as our new tenant here to bring its respected brand to Strawberry Square. Serving both the workforce and residential population here in the City, this location will add a very convenient branch to the YMCA lineup of Central PA locations,” said Brad Jones, President & CEO of Harristown (owner of Strawberry Square).

Y on Market reflects the Harrisburg Area YMCA’s commitment to revitalizing Downtown Harrisburg and meeting community needs through convenient, welcoming spaces that promote living well. Positioned in a central Downtown Harrisburg location, the facility offers members a flexible option to prioritize wellness before work, during lunch breaks, or after the workday. “We are always looking for new ways to serve our members where they are, and this space allows us to bring the YMCA mission directly into the center of downtown Harrisburg,” said David Ozmore, President and CEO of the Harrisburg Area YMCA.

Day of Giving is an annual opportunity for the community to come together to support the YMCA’s mission. Gifts made during the event directly benefit individuals and families across the Harrisburg area by helping to remove financial barriers to programs such as child care, summer camp, youth sports, swim lessons, chronic disease prevention programs, and wellness initiatives for seniors.

Throughout the day, YMCA branches hosted special activities, shared impact stories, and encouraged supporters to participate both in person and online. Community members gave at every level, showing that every gift, no matter the size, plays a vital role in strengthening the foundation of the Harrisburg community.

“The incredible support we saw on March 3rd is a true testament to the power of community,” said David Ozmore, President & CEO. “Every dollar raised helps ensure that cost is never a barrier to the life-changing programs and services the YMCA provides.”

Funds raised during Day of Giving go directly to the YMCA’s Impact Fund, which provides financial assistance to children, families, adults, and seniors who rely on the Y for safe spaces, connection, and opportunities to grow and thrive.

The Harrisburg Area YMCA extends its sincere gratitude to all donors, volunteers, and staff who made this year’s Day of Giving a success.

Association Office: Mark Reilly

Mark Reilly has dedicated nearly two decades to the YMCA, starting as a West Shore YMCA Branch Board member and joining the Area Board in 2016. He has served as the Strategic Planning Committee Chair, a fundraiser, and a steadfast supporter of the YMCA mission. As Strategic Planning Committee Chair, Mark guided every aspect of strategic planning — developing structure, timelines, events, communications, and budgets — while ensuring staff and community voices were central to the process. His leadership transformed the planning from a top-down approach to a “community-up” model, empowering front-line staff and participants to shape priorities and take ownership of execution. A lifelong advocate for youth, Mark has supported his children and countless youth activities, athletics, and events. His optimism, charisma, and dedication are evident in every endeavor, yet he consistently deflects attention to the YMCA mission and staff. Mark’s commitment, energy, and inclusive leadership make him an invaluable asset to the YMCA and the community it serves.

Camp Curtin YMCA: Sensei Howard Alexander

Sensei Howard has shown exceptional dedication as a Judo Instructor at the Harrisburg Area YMCA, teaching not just the sport but life lessons in discipline, confidence, respect, perseverance, and integrity. His classes foster teamwork, personal growth, and character development, reflecting the YMCA’s mission and values. He models humility, dedication, and service, inspiring students, peers, and the community. Sensei Howard meets youth where they are, adapts lessons to individual needs, and encourages responsibility both on and off the mat. He emphasizes respect, honesty, and accountability while creating a safe and engaging environment. Volunteering at both Camp Curtin and West Shore branches, he keeps youth engaged, provides leadership opportunities, and extends the YMCA’s impact through community events, demonstrations, and tournaments. His passion, innovation, and commitment make him an invaluable contributor to the YMCA, helping youth grow in skill, character, and confidence while promoting the YMCA mission throughout the community.

Center for Healthy Living: Paige Szarowski

Paige serves on the YMCA Center for Healthy Living Community Advisory Board (CAB) and consistently demonstrates exceptional dedication. She makes every effort to attend meetings, answer calls and emails, and participate in events, representing the YCHL with professionalism and care. Paige is often the face of the YCHL at events, reliably showing up when others cannot and ensuring our programs are visible and understood in the community. She is compassionate, kind, and respectful, fully embracing her responsibilities as a CAB member. Beyond attendance, Paige advocates for YCHL programs, raises awareness of our EBHI offerings, and encourages referrals from colleagues at Select Physical Therapy. Her commitment and consistency make her an invaluable supporter, and she spreads the YMCA mission in every interaction. Paige’s presence, advocacy, and care strengthen both our programs and our connection to the community.

East Shore Branch: Kate Kornucik

Kate has shown remarkable dedication to the YMCA as a board member and active participant in our race series. An avid runner, she competes alongside her family while helping promote and market events through engaging video content. Her feedback and contributions have enhanced the quality of our races, and her video appearances inspire participants and foster community engagement. Beyond races, Kate played a key role in launching the East Shore YMCA’s inaugural golf scramble, demonstrating her commitment to the YMCA’s growth and success. She also leverages her professional network to secure crucial fundraising and sponsorship opportunities, supporting the sustainability and vitality of YMCA programs. Kate’s multifaceted involvement, energy, and passion make her an invaluable asset to the organization. Her leadership, creativity, and dedication reflect her deep commitment to the YMCA’s mission and positively impact both the community and the people we serve.

Friendship Branch: Ainsworth Team

Tyler and Herman serve on the committee that organizes the Clays Classic clay pigeon shoot for the Friendship YMCA. As representatives of our Title Sponsor, Ainsworth, they dedicate time and expertise to planning this annual event, which has grown into a major fundraiser over the past four years. They play a key role in recruiting sponsors and teams, demonstrating commitment to community building and fostering strong relationships. Their leadership ensures the event’s success, allowing the YMCA to expand its impact in the community. Funds raised support children and families in need by sending kids to camp, providing swim lessons, and enrolling them in programs like Youth Basketball. The Clays Classic is more substantial and more impactful because of Tyler and Herman’s dedication, and Ainsworth’s ongoing support. Their efforts exemplify service, leadership, and a passion for helping others, making a meaningful difference in the lives of those served by the Friendship YMCA.

Northern Dauphin County Branch: Cole Davis

Cole has shown exceptional dedication as an assistant swim team coach, consistently going above and beyond for our YMCA swimmers. He leads multiple weekly practices, motivating athletes to reach their full potential, and supports them at every meet with guidance, encouragement, and mentorship. Cole fosters both athletic growth and personal development, particularly among older swimmers, drawing on his own competitive experience in high school and college. He exemplifies the YMCA’s core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — and encourages swimmers to demonstrate them in and out of the pool. Cole’s leadership has created a positive team culture where swimmers improve skills, practice sportsmanship, and grow as individuals. Through his dedication, mentorship, and advocacy, Cole not only strengthens the swim team but also advances the YMCA’s mission, inspiring youth to excel as athletes and as members of the community. His impact is lasting and deeply valued.

West Shore Branch: Heather Fringer

Heather has shown outstanding dedication as a volunteer for the YMCA developmental volleyball class. Always punctual and ready to help, she went above and beyond to ensure each class ran smoothly — setting up equipment, supporting coaches, and giving individual attention to kids who needed encouragement. Her reliability, selflessness, and proactive approach made her an invaluable part of the program. Heather’s natural leadership, calm demeanor, and positive energy create a welcoming environment where children feel supported and motivated to learn volleyball skills. She models the YMCA core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — while inspiring kids and fellow volunteers alike. Her involvement strengthened the program, helping children build confidence, teamwork, and skills, while positively impacting families and the community. Heather’s passion for volleyball and the YMCA’s mission, along with her enthusiasm and initiative, have made her a true ambassador, enhancing the program and encouraging families to engage with the YMCA.

Association Office: Tom Gifford

Tom was promoted to the Harrisburg Area YMCA City Relations Director in March 2025 and has since made a significant impact. He has built nearly 200 new community contacts, strengthened partnerships with schools, city government, and youth organizations, and played a key role in the success of programs like Safety Around Water. Tom stepped in to lead major YMCA race events during a staffing gap, trained the new Community Events Director, and continues to support Evidence-Based Health Interventions. He leads the Youth Task Force, ensures programs run smoothly, and creates first-time experiences for youth, including new 2026 initiatives with the PA Fish and Boat Commission. Tom is mission-focused, dedicated to sustaining and improving programs he helped build, and continually develops his leadership and professional skills, including becoming a PA Certified Community Health Worker and Rock Steady Boxing Instructor.

Camp Curtin Branch: Aundra Mills, Jr.

Aundra has made a tremendous impact at Camp Curtin YMCA by creating innovative, inclusive programs that engage youth and foster growth in spirit, mind, and body. He goes beyond managing activities to building genuine relationships with youth, families, and the community, and to mentoring staff and volunteers with professionalism, empathy, and leadership. Aundra champions the YMCA’s values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — by creating a supportive environment, modeling integrity, promoting inclusivity, and encouraging youth leadership. He has expanded the branch’s reach through community collaboration, new programming like dance and Junior Achievers, and the revival of youth basketball, attracting over 200 participants. Committed to professional growth, Aundra pursues training in youth development, mental health, and equity, staying current with best practices. His dedication fosters a safe, engaging, and empowering environment where youth thrive, staff are supported, and the YMCA’s mission is realized daily.

Center for Healthy Living: Amy Lauver

Amy is a dedicated and tireless member of the YMCA Center for Healthy Living team, always stepping up to ensure programs run smoothly and goals are met. She willingly attends events, teaches programs, and meets with community members during events and weekends to support participants in pursuing healthier lifestyles. Amy is a cheerleader for both coworkers and participants, offering encouragement, guidance, and support every step of the way. She is highly organized, adept at multitasking, and ensures all resources and programs are safe and effective. She leads participants through challenges with care, creating a welcoming environment where they can explore success at their own pace. Committed to growth, Amy attends trainings, conferences, and continuing education opportunities to expand her skills and knowledge. Her dedication extends beyond work, reflecting a genuine care for her team, participants, and community. Amy’s leadership, compassion, and organization make her an invaluable asset to YCHL.

East Shore Branch: John Blymier

John consistently demonstrates excellence as Wellness Director, going above and beyond his core duties. In addition to leading wellness programs, he supports multiple areas of the YMCA, including video extraction, parking lot safety, marketing, and social media engagement. John addresses member concerns promptly, ensuring a positive experience for all visitors. He also contributes to the YMCA’s long-term success by assisting with board member recruitment and strengthening leadership and community connections; his versatility and dedication impact both daily operations and strategic growth. John’s willingness to take on additional responsibilities, combined with his commitment to members and the broader YMCA community, makes him an invaluable asset. His leadership, care, and proactive approach enhance every aspect of the organization, fostering a welcoming and thriving environment for staff, members, and the community alike.

Friendship Branch: Maggie Perry

Maggie consistently goes above and beyond, demonstrating exceptional dedication to the children and families in our programs. As a leader of the Kindergarten Readiness Program, she brings passion, creativity, and care to ensure children are prepared for the next stage of learning. She also supports the School Age Child Care Program in the afternoons, showing unwavering commitment to both children and staff. Maggie’s positive energy and genuine connections with each child create a nurturing environment where learning and growth thrive. She successfully completed her CDA and is pursuing an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education at HACC, reflecting her dedication to professional development. Her hard work, caring nature, and enthusiasm make her an invaluable member of our team. Maggie’s impact is evident daily, and her continued contributions enrich the lives of the children, families, and colleagues she serves.

Northern Dauphin County Branch: Becky Neiman

Becky, a dedicated preschool teacher, recently celebrated 30 years with our YMCA childcare center. She leaves a lasting impression on every child and family she works with, creating a nurturing environment where children learn, grow, and have fun. Her creative lessons, engaging activities, and love for her work contribute to the success of our programs and the happiness of families. A true team player, Becky inspires colleagues with her strong work ethic, positive attitude, and collaboration. She embodies the YMCA’s core values — caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility — and teaches these lessons to her students. Over three decades, Becky has influenced countless children, including multiple generations within families, building trust and confidence with families and the community. She continually seeks ways to enhance her classroom through creative projects, hands-on learning, and professional development, ensuring a safe, engaging, and enriching environment for all.

West Shore Branch: Tracy Eichelberger

Tracy has taught Group Fitness classes at the West Shore YMCA for 18 years, demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and passion in every class. She is a supportive team member who frequently subbed for others, mentored new instructors, and expanded her skills by learning new formats. Tracy actively participates in special events like Black Friday Fitness Frenzy and Move-A-Thon, encouraging members and fellow instructors while letting them shine. She builds strong connections with members, motivating them in their fitness journeys, checking in on life events, and creating an inclusive, welcoming environment. She contributes to the YMCA beyond teaching, supporting the Annual Campaign, helping improve programs, and bringing creative ideas to events. Tracy stays current in fitness trends, maintains certifications, and ensures her classes remain challenging and accessible. Her reliability, positive attitude, and dedication make her an invaluable instructor and a respected, beloved member of the YMCA community.

When thinking of French American cuisine, one name that pops up often is Julia Child. She popularized French cooking techniques in the US, which made them more accessible to American home cooks. Common techniques we have come to know, like sautéing, braising, and poaching, all come from the French. French American culture can be widespread throughout the United States but can be seen most fluently in places like California, New York, and Louisiana. 

Louisiana has a cultured cuisine called Cajun that ties French, Canadian, and American cuisine together; a sort of fusion. Louisiana used to exist as a French colony. The French immigrants who were exiled from Canada found their way to this colony. These Acadians were farmers and fishermen who used what they had. This mentality became a distinct factor of this new cuisine. When in this new climate, they adapted their cooking style to use what they now had in this new place. 

Ingredients like rice, okra, pepper, and seafood became staples of the Cajun diet.  This includes crawfish, shrimp, oysters, and seafood. Gumbo is one of the most recognizable foods from the Cajun culture. It is a brothy, vegetable-filled, and protein-rich bowl of warmth. Another common dish is rice and beans. This is just as it says, a dish of slowly cooked rice and beans with sausage, garlic, and Cajun spices. While these both sound delicious, can this fusion of French-American cuisine be healthy?

French American food can be good for your health. French cuisine often values fresh ingredients such as fruits, vegetables, and fresh meats. With this also comes balance and moderation. The French approach to food highlights balance and moderation. This means that there are typically smaller portions of food, and these portions are enjoyed more slowly. This emphasizes quality over quantity. The fruits and vegetables that are used plentiful in French American cuisine are composed of essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. 

Want to try this at home? The good news is that you most likely have had some variation of French cuisine in your life. By incorporating this style of cooking into your everyday life, you can reap the benefits of fresh ingredients while also celebrating the French-Americans who brought it!

References:

• Popular Cajun Foods: https://www.chefspencil.com/popular-cajun-foods/
• Is Cajun Food Considered French: https://meatcheftools.com/is-cajun-food-considered-french/
• French-American Heritage Month: https://www.scarsdalelibrary.org/blog-entries/french-american-heritage-month-july-2023