RECOGNIZING EMPLOYEE EXCELLENCE - Greater Peoria YMCA

At the Greater Peoria Family YMCA, we believe in celebrating the dedication, hard work, and accomplishments of our full-time team members. Each month, as part of our commitment to fostering an uplifting and supportive environment for all staff, we will be shining a light on one of our full-time employees in our new Full-Time Feature and one of our part-time team members in our Employee of the Month.

FULL-TIME FEATURE

Kate Schmalshof

Director of Healthy Living

Kate’s hard work and leadership make our YMCA a better place for everyone. If you see her around, be sure to say THANK YOU for all she does!

“This month, we’re excited to spotlight Kate Schmalshof, whose dedication and leadership have significantly impacted the YMCA and its members.

Kate has continually worked to expand her department and services, always striving for the betterment of our facilities and community. Beginning with the weight room updates last year, she successfully added 11 new pieces of equipment while ensuring the space remained accessible for all.

Seeing a need for stronger oversight in facility maintenance, she volunteered to take on custodial leadership, a challenge she has tackled head-on to the great benefit of our building and its users.

But Kate’s leadership goes beyond managing—she leads by doing. Over the past few months, she has spent countless hours personally cleaning locker rooms, board rooms, and even handling some, let’s just say, less-than-glamorous situations. Most recently, she has taken the lead on the development of a major renovation to the wellness center and track area, modernizing the spaces, and creating new opportunities for our members later this spring.

Kate exemplifies what it means to be a true YMCA leader—dedicated, service-driven, and always willing to step up for the team. If you see her around, be sure to give her a big “THANK YOU” for her hard work!”

– Andy Thornton, Greater Peoria Family YMCA President/CEO

Devyn Young

Assistant Member Engagement Director

Devyn’s contributions have had a significant impact on the success of the department, and his dedication does not go unnoticed. His efforts to foster strong relationships with members and colleagues alike exemplify the YMCA’s core values.

“We recognize and celebrate Devyn Young for his exceptional contributions to the Membership Department. From his very first day with us, Devyn has been an invaluable asset, consistently demonstrating professionalism, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to our members and team.

Devyn’s ability to connect personally with our members is truly remarkable. His warm demeanor and excellent interpersonal skills make every interaction a positive experience. Members often share how much they appreciate his welcoming smile and thoughtful compliments, which make them feel seen and valued every time they visit.

As Assistant Director, Devyn has taken on significant responsibilities and excelled in every capacity. He has:

Taken ownership of the front desk schedule, working tirelessly to ensure fair distribution of hours among staff.
Managed the front desk checklist, ensuring daily tasks such as drawer counts, restocking supplies, and preparing materials are completed efficiently.
Launched the department newsletter, keeping the front desk team informed weekly by gathering updates from all departments and compiling them into a cohesive communication tool.

Please join us in thanking Devyn for his incredible work and commitment to our team. We are lucky to have him!”

– Andy Thornton, Greater Peoria Family YMCA President/CEO

LaToya Jorden

Senior Program Director of Youth Development

LaToya’s innovative approach has strengthened connections across our youth development departments, creating a cohesive and impactful program structure. With her vision, we are excited about the opportunities ahead in 2025.

““LaToya has excelled in leading our Youth Development programming, bringing her dedication and expertise to every aspect of her work. She has combined her educational foundation with practical leadership to drive meaningful growth in our programs. Since joining our team, LaToya has advanced from Teen Reach Coordinator to Senior Program Director of Youth Development, consistently demonstrating a commitment to excellence.

Under her guidance, our Teen Reach Department has grown significantly, now reaching more students than ever before. LaToya led the successful reapplication for our Teen Reach grant and continually seeks new opportunities to expand and innovate our offerings. Despite staffing challenges, she ensured a successful summer and smooth start to fall programming, all while managing and supporting other staff and departments with grace and efficiency.

Her leadership has strengthened connections across our youth development departments, creating a cohesive and impactful program structure. With exciting plans already underway for 2025, we are fortunate to have LaToya’s vision and dedication leading our youth development efforts. Thank you, LaToya, for your unwavering commitment and incredible contributions!””

– Andy Thornton, Greater Peoria Family YMCA President/CEO

Sahara Adams

Aquatics Director

Sahara’s dedication to safety, education, and community service makes our YMCA stronger, and we’re grateful to have her on our team!

“We are excited to celebrate Sahara Adams, for our Director highlight! Since stepping into her role, Sahara has worked diligently to elevate our aquatics department and become involved in our organizational leadership. She shows a dedication to the YMCA and community service.

Under her guidance, we’ve seen an impressive 100% increase in Easterseals swim lessons with two months left in the year ! Her commitment to safety and education, has allowed our YMCA to lead certification classes for our staff and partner agencies, with plans to grow these opportunities in 2025. This would not be possible without her dedication and expertise.

Finally, one of the most exciting initiatives has been the development of an adaptive swim lesson program, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn and enjoy swimming.

Thank you, Sahara for your hard work and passion. Your leadership in the aquatic department and this YMCA is greatly appreciated, and we are lucky to have you on our team.”

– Andy Thornton, Greater Peoria Family YMCA President/CEO

Kennedy Banks

Member Engagement Director

“Kennedy really is a big reason why I walk into the Y with a smile on my face.”

— Selena, Team Member

“I am thrilled to take a moment to recognize an exceptional member of our YMCA team—Kennedy! Her unwavering professionalism and dedication make her an invaluable asset to our organization.

Kennedy consistently fosters close relationships with both our members and her staff, always putting the Y’s best interests at heart. She is deeply committed to developing a team that not only represents our values but is also equipped to meet the demands of our organization.

Her ability to go above and beyond for everyone is truly remarkable. She remembers every small detail and always takes the time to check in. Her perfect balance of fun and professionalism creates an approachable atmosphere where her team members feel valued and supported. As one of her team members, Selena, beautifully stated, “Kennedy really is a big reason why I walk into the Y with a smile on my face.”

Kennedy has successfully managed our rapid membership expansion. She has successfully addressed increased traffic and member needs while ensuring our staff receives the training necessary to excel. She has also effectively enforced building behavior and policies, managed communication between youth development and program parents, and brought in engaging speakers for our members. Her commitment to community outreach is evident as she attends multiple events each month, ensuring our presence is felt throughout the community.

Kennedy has cultivated a staff culture that inspires her team. Her advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion in our Member Experience further highlights her dedication to creating a welcoming environment for all.

Let’s all take a moment to celebrate Kennedy’s outstanding contributions and recognize her as the incredible leader she is.

Thank you, Kennedy, for everything you do!” – Andy Thornton, Greater Peoria Family YMCA President/CEO

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

Michelle Estrada

Teen Reach Assistant

March 2025

Where are you from? Peoria, IL
What’s your favorite food? Mexican & Chinese Food
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Matcha & Iced Coffee
Favorite movie? Corpse Bride
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Pink
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Don’t You Worry Child
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: Writing, Hiking, Crafting/Painting
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to? Mexico
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? A successful person

Michelle is always willing to jump in and help where its needed. She has a take charge attitude that gets the job done. She is not afraid to ask questions or speak on topics she is passionate about. Michelle came in with fresh ideas to Teen Reach and taught the kids Spanish language and they love to ask her if they are saying it right. They continue to reach out to her to learn more about her culture. I am happy to have Michelle on my team she is a great asset.
Michelle consistently brings a positive attitude to the Y. Keep up the great work!
The Teen’s love Michelle and her leadership!

Johaun Guzman

Member Resources Specialist

February 2025

Where are you from? Peoria, IL
What’s your favorite food? Sushi
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Water
Favorite movie? Scream, the original
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Purple
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Window Seat by Erykah Badu
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: Playing Guitar, Bike Rides, Video Games
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to? California
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself in college, traveling and having fun.

Johaun is always willing to set up when help is needed! Thanks for all you do Johaun!
Johaun consistently brings a welcoming presence to our Membership Desk and played a vital role in the success of our recent Chilly Thrills Carnival. During event setup, he went above and beyond, offering assistance with decorations and various tasks to ensure everything came together seamlessly. Johaun approached every challenge with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, demonstrating his dedication to our mission and the success of our team. His willingness to step up and contribute as needed was instrumental in making the event a success. We are grateful for his hard work and commitment!
His personality is contagious! Keep up the great work!

Tim Jones

Member Resources Specialist

January 2025

Where are you from? Peoria, IL
What’s your favorite food? Cheeseburgers
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Water
Favorite movie? Shawshank Redemption
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Red
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Selfish
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: Spending time with family
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to? Jamaica
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Retired from Peoria Public Schools

Tim consistently demonstrates a commitment to the safety and well-being of everyone at our facility, embodying the core values of the YMCA – caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
Tim goes above and beyond his regular duties, always willing to step in and support the team when needed, especially in ensuring our building remains a safe and welcoming environment.
We love Tim!
Tim is so approachable! And creates an enjoyable working environment for all.

Willow Adams

Lifeguard

December 2024

Where are you from? Wisconsin
What’s your favorite food? Pizza
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Pepsi
Favorite movie? Whip It
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Yellow
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Teenage Dream
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: hiking
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to? England
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Hiking

Willow has been a great addition to Aquatics since joining the team in June. Whether it be stepping up to manager our outdoor pool at the Y or championing our adaptive swim lesson program at Easterseals, she has really stepped up to fill the needs of the department. Parents are also calling and emailing to compliment Willow’s teaching demeanor with their children.
Willow has worn a lot of hats in her time here at the Y. She is always willing to step up and help where needed!
We are so excited to see how the Adaptive Swim Lesson program continues to grow here at the Y, and we know with Willow, the program will be fantastic!

Ruby Poe

STRONG KIDS/Child Care

November 2024

Where are you from? Athens, IL
What’s your favorite food? Spaghetti
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Water/Gatorade
Favorite movie? The Notebook
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Red
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Dawns by Zach Bryan
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: hanging out with friends, reading, going on walks
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to? Nassau Bahamas
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I see myself as a 6 grade teacher and hopefully married with a house.

Ruby has worked in STRONG Kids and other school age programs as much as she can over the last 2 years. She is an asset to our team. Ruby is so caring and kind with every child she encounters through the Y’s programs. She is always willing to fill in and help out in any way she can. We would be lost without Ruby!
Ruby has consistently gone above and beyond to create a positive work environment for our members and program participants.
We love Ruby! Thanks for always being a positive light.

Madison Shelton

Front Desk

October 2024

Where are you from?: Peoria
What’s your favorite food?: Chipotle
What’s your favorite thing to drink?: Sweet tea
Favorite movie?: me before you
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?: yellow
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat?: anything by the weekend
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies:: reading, reading, reading
Where’s the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to?: Pennsylvania
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?: I have no idea to be so honest

Madison’s attitude and smile is contagious! She is extremely helpful and is always willing to step up and work across multiple departments whenever there is a gap.
Madison consistently goes above and beyond in her role. She takes the time to engage with members, ensuring they feel welcomed and valued. She creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for everyone.
She is always willing to lend a hand to her colleagues, whether it’s helping with in a different department of stepping up to welcome attendees to the Soiree, we feel Madisons generosity!

Luke Smith

Front Desk, Wellness Attendant, Billing Assistant

September 2024

Where are you from? Peoria, Illinois
What’s your favorite food? Any Pasta
What’s your favorite drink? Reign Energy Drink
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Finished with my bachelor’s degree at Bradley doing marketing for a professional sports team.
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: Tanzania
What is your favorite movie? Independence Day
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Red
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? 1×1 by Bring Me the Horizon
Share 3 hobbies. The Gym
With Friends
Seeing Family

Always helpful, friendly and professional.
Luke was hired as staff at the front desk. Since that time he has transitioned as a wellness attendant and has helped Ellen with office duties. Luke works out at the Y daily and you will always find him helping someone out in the weight room, whether it be spotting someone, answering some kind of lifting or workout questions, or just motivating people to be their best. He has been such a role model for the younger lifters. You see him helping them and they are always going up to him for advice or suggestions and he is always more than happy to show them or help them. Super friendly guy when you walk into the Y, super helpful in the wellness area and weight room, and just a very positive employee and guy to be around.

Amber Lempesis

Swim Lesson Coordinator

August 2024

Where are you from? Peoria, Illinois
What’s your favorite food? Crab Legs
What’s your favorite drink? Cream Soda
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Somewhere really great!
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: Smokey Mountains
What is your favorite movie? Narnia
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Blue
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? What a Beautiful Name by Hillsong
Share 3 hobbies. Piano
Snowboarding
Being Outside

Amber has been with us for four years and really dedicated herself this summer to coordinating and supporting our group swim lessons, private swim lessons, and summer swim team while stepping up to guard as needed and filling in as an Aquatic Manager a few times a week. There is nothing this girl wouldn’t do to ensure the safety and success of our Aquatics department this summer and we all greatly appreciate her efforts.

Darren Denkins

Building Supervisor

July 2024

Where are you from? Shreveport, Louisiana
What’s your favorite food? Pasta
What’s your favorite drink? Gatorade
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? 5 years from now I see myself in my career field and financially stable
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: Washington, D.C.
What is your favorite movie? Friday
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? Lil Baby – Forever
Share 3 hobbies. Playing Basketball
Playing Video Games
Watching T.V./Movies

Darren makes everyone feel welcome when the step into the building. He goes above and beyond to make sure that everyone feels heard.
Darren goes above and beyond to greet and make each member that comes through the door feel welcomed. I received feedback from a member saying Darren made them feel very satisfied with their Party Rental by assisting with things he did not have to but he was very kind and went over and beyond to make sure her daughters party was a success.

Abbie Shearer

Aquatics Manager & Lifeguard

June 2024

Where are you from? Wisconsin
What’s your favorite food? Steak
What’s your favorite drink? Coffee
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Doing research in a lab
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: Grand Canyon
What is your favorite movie? La La Land or Revenge of the Sith
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Green
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? Strawberry Sunscreen or We Still Don’t Trust You
Share 3 hobbies. Lifting
Hiking
Reading

Abbie has returned to the pool for her fourth summer and has started the summer off strong by covering for her teammates’ shifts when needed and, as an Aquatic Manager, leading the team with our four core values in mind; Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. When enforcing the rules for our patrons, Abbie is always firm, fair, and tactful while providing a fun and safe environment for the members and team alike. Abbie truly is a role model for all and an invaluable asset to the Greater Peoria Family YMCA Aquatic Team.
So thankful to have Abbie back for her 4th YMCA summer! Keep up the great work!

Mike Tedford

Wellness Attendant

May 2024

Where are you from? Peoria, IL
What’s your favorite food? Burgers
What’s your favorite drink? Water
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? With a degree in Accounting and hopefully a CPA
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: Las Vegas
What is your favorite movie? Whiplash
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Red
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? “For the Last Time”
Share 3 hobbies. Golf
Reading
Video Games

Mike works as a Wellness Attendant and does a great job in keeping things picked up and enforcing the rules. He does anything that is asked and would help out where needed if someone asked. He has helped the staff at the front desk on occasions when there is no building supervisor and has patrolled the building making sure everything is good. He took on the role of HKU instructor for several weeks in order to provide the kids and parents with an activity physically. He is friends with the staff and always here to do a good job. I think he would be a perfect Employee of the Month for the things he does and for always being here to help and go the extra step if he needs to step into a different role and be a team player.
Mike is willing to step in and help out with anything! He is more than a team player!

Trish Tripp

Group Fitness Instructor

April 2024

Where are you from? Originally Elmwood, but have lived in Peoria for about 25 years
What’s your favorite food? Pizza
What’s your favorite drink? Coffee, water, red wine
Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Still focusing on fitness, maybe living in a warmer climate (Florida)
List the coolest place you’ve ever traveled to: York, Maine. I visited last year and it was beautiful!
What is your favorite movie? Clue the Movie (I’m a big fan of the board game too)
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Ocean Blue
Share 3 hobbies. Running/working out
Traveling
Hanging out with friends, family & my two cats
Music tells a lot about someone. What song is currently on repeat? I like a lot of music, but have recently been listening to Texas Hold ‘Em by Beyoncé- learning the choreography for WERQ!

Trish exceeds expectations with creative, challenging workouts daily. Passionate about fitness, she ensures proper form, personalizes sessions, and energizes early mornings.
Trish puts extra effort in planning & executing each class & it results in consistent excellent workouts for us. I’ve taken Trish’ classes for years & have never been disappointed. She makes each workout fun with humor, music & her positive, motivating attitude. She really deserves recognition!!
She ensures enjoyable, effective workouts for all, adapting exercises for various abilities. Her infectious smile and motivation keep sessions engaging, drawing repeat attendees.

Becky Ellis

School Site Coordinator at Norwood

March 2024

Where are you from?: Creve Coeur, Illinois
What’s your favorite food? Pizza
What’s your favorite thing to drink? Water & Pepsi (Cherry)
Favorite movie? Nemo…Any movie actually
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?Purple
Music tells a lot about someone; what song is currently on repeat? Christian music, country and 80’s
What’s your freetime look like? List your hobbies: Out with friends, Puppets for Jesus, Going to the movies
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?: Working with kids always

Miss. Becky is one of the most devoted people I have met. The way she cares for the children at Norwood, day in and day out, takes patience and love that only she possesses. She has also been an extremely supportive and generous co-worker / boss, always thinking of me and others around her before herself.
She is an excellent educator! Dedicated and trustworthy! Hardworking and kind!
Becky has gone above and beyond to be present in the program. Our family loves Ms. Becky at Norwood!

Stacy Campbell

Group Fitness Instructor

February 2024

Where are you from? Ft. Wayne, Indiana
What’s your favorite food? That’s a tough one. I’m going to say pizza. But you couldn’t put something in front of me that I wouldn’t like.
What’s your favorite drink? Red wine, of course.
What’s your favorite movie? Goodfellas
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? I’d usually say pink, hands down, but lately I’ve really been into aqua.
Music tells a lot about someone, what song is currently on repeat? Usually Michael Buble
What’s your free-time look like? List three hobbies: Working out, Reading (I love historical fiction) and traveling.

Stacy is a dedicated Group Fitness Instructor who has been with the Y for nearly 5 years. She creates a welcoming environment for all those who take her classes. She has a dynamic personality and is dedicated to helping everyone achieve their personal wellness goals. She promotes her programs regularly and is always inviting and welcoming new members to her classes. She is personally dedicated to her own wellness and that shows in everything she does. As a full-time plus employee at OSF Stacey makes personal fitness a priority in her life. She teaches 6 classes a week for the Y and is an active participant on the Board of Directors Community Awareness Committee. She also makes it a priority to attend and participate in YMCA special events like the Summer Soiree along with several of her fitness staff colleagues.
We love waking up with Stacy!
The Y wouldn’t be the same without Stacy!

Elizabeth Allen

Front Desk

January 2024

Where are you from? Peoria, IL.
What’s your favorite food? Pizza.
What’s your favorite drink? Margarita.
What’s your favorite movie? Casablanca.
If you were a crayon, what color would you be? Yellow – It adds a bright glow to everything else!
Music tells a lot about someone, what song is currently on repeat? Anything from the Rolling Stones.
What’s your free-time look like? List three hobbies: Reading, spending time with my kids, & watching movies on Netflix.
Where is the coolest place you have been? Egypt.
Where do you see yourself working in 5 years? Closer to retirement!

Extremely Reliable!
Hard worker and very reliable. Always willing to help out when needed.
The weekends wouldn’t be the same without Elizabeth at the front desk!