The YMCA of Lincoln thrives because of its remarkable people. We are immensely grateful for our dedicated staff, who make the Y an exceptional place to serve our community each and every day. Continue reading to meet one of our incredible team members:
Kelly Fink, Fallbrook YMCA Associate Executive Director
How long have you been with the YMCA of Lincoln, and what other roles/position have you held? How did your journey with the Y get started, and what initially drew you to the organization?
I started working at the Downtown YMCA as a Personal Trainer and Wellness Specialist. I had been a personal trainer for two years before coming to the YMCA, but I was interested in applying since I would be able to work as a Wellness Specialist and Personal Trainer. I worked there part-time for four years and then was hired as the Health and Wellness Director of the Fallbrook YMCA. In January of 2022, I became the Associate Executive Director.
What makes the YMCA of Lincoln different than other places you’ve worked?
The YMCA is a great place to experience personal and professional growth. In previous jobs I have worked, I had a very specific role and really only gained experience in a single department/position. My career with the Y has given me opportunities to work in multiple different departments and be involved with projects and events outside of Health and Wellness.
I have also had the privilege of working alongside staff who have 20+ years of experience within the organization. Their guidance and wealth of knowledge has been extremely valuable to me.
What has been your proudest career moment and why?
The Fallbrook Y recently raised over $40,000 for our Annual Campaign. This was the first time in my 5 years at Fallbrook that we had exceeded our fundraising goal for the year. I had the opportunity early on at Fallbrook to take a leadership role in our fundraising events so it was extremely rewarding to see all of our work from this last year cumulate to finally reaching our goal.
What is one of your favorite memories working at the Y?
One of my favorite memories was the Youth Triathlon we hosted in 2020. I had never attended the event so I was unsure of how it would turn out since it was my first time leading it. With the help of the other directors, we were able to reach a record number of registrations and sponsorships for the event.
What’s something most people don’t know about you?
I was born in Texas, but then moved to Maryland where I spent most of my childhood. I have learned to love Nebraska more and more over time, but I still miss Maryland Crab Cakes, going to the beach and being surrounded by other Baltimore Ravens fans.
Thank you, Kelly, for an incredible 5 years at the YMCA of Lincoln! Your hard work and commitment have been invaluable, and we look forward to seeing the wonderful things you will achieve in the future.