Julia and Joel Atherton

In March 2000, I met my husband, Joel Atherton, at the West YMCA. I didn't know it at the time, but I was there with my parents working out, and he came up to me and informed me that we did the same ab routine. I was highly doubtful of that so I introduced myself and asked him multiple questions, including where do you go to church, how long have you gone to church, do you know Jesus ... you know, the important questions to either scare him away or prove that he's not just messing around!

After an exchange of numbers, he agreed to meet me at my church for youth group and two years later we were married and even had our wedding reception in the old gym at the West Y! It was perfect. He's the best trainer that the YMCA never hired! 

Our three girls have grown up with the YMCA as basically another extension of our home. Each girl loves coming with mom and dad to the gym when they get the chance. 

We know many faces from the past and present. We have a friend that told us long ago "A family who works out together, stays together." I love that saying, but honestly a family founded on Jesus is what keeps it together. The YMCA's history, mission and heart to keep Christian values at its core, is truely one of the BEST things about the Y and why we have kept our family coming back for years! 

The West Branch YMCA will always hold a very special place in our hearts and in our family.