Jenny Graber

Jenny received her BAA from Central Michigan University. She admits she changed her major 7 times before deciding on her final destination – Recreation Parks and Leisure Services Administration with a concentration in Therapeutic Recreation.

She made her decision after attending a wheelchair rugby tournament, “I was amazed with those athletes and how cool the sport was – really, I just loved that I would be able to help people enjoy recreational opportunities and fun at work ALL the time.”

Jenny started as a part-time Membership Representative when the West Y first opened in 2014. Since then, she has played many different roles including Interim Membership Director, Youth Sports Director, Child Watch Director, Interim Wellness Director 3 different times, Administrative Services Director and finally Senior Community Engagement Director where she oversees Membership and Wellness departments.

Jenny’s favorite part about her work is all the smiles, “I love sharing smiles with members and participants I engage with every day. I know that when I see someone in our facility or programs with a smile, there is a story behind that smile.”

As a senior leader in the organization, Jenny says that there’s nothing more rewarding than knowing the YMCA’s work is impacting thousands of lives every day.

“My job is to make sure people are happy and successful in whatever journey they are on and to be able to provide that support on a daily basis.”

Outside of the YMCA, Jenny kids that she likes to disc golf and watch hockey – but those are activities she’s learned to love through her husband. She actually loves being outside (specifically at the beach), watching sunsets, taking pictures, and doing “crafty” things, along with spending time with family and friends.