Mission Forward is dedicated to sharing donor stories, celebrating the impact of giving, and inspiring others to join us in strengthening our community. | Volume 1 Issue 1 | July 2026
If you’ve been around the YMCA for any length of time, chances are you’ve crossed paths with Karl and Gail Klein. Their support of the Y goes back to the days of the YMCA on Madison Avenue, and they continue to be some of our biggest champions today.
Karl and Gail were great friends of our late colleague, Nancy Powers, and they help keep her legacy alive each year through their continued generosity and commitment to the YMCA. Their support has made a lasting impact on our Y and the people we serve.
“What I remember most [about the old Y], was walking in every day and seeing Nancy,” said Karl.
“The Nancy Powers Scholarship aims to give memberships to senior citizens who may not be able to afford the membership dues. Senior Citizens were some of my favorite people at the Y when I first started coming, so to give to that scholarship does my heart good,” he added.
Many of our members know Karl from his Tai Chi classes. For years, he has shared his time, knowledge, and passion with others, helping members improve their health, find balance, and build meaningful connections. His positive influence can be felt every day throughout our YMCA community.
That’s why it was such an honor to recently rename our Aerobics Studio the “Karl G. & Gail T. Klein Aerobics Studio.”
Karl and Gail have created a lasting legacy that reflects their many years of dedication, service, and philanthropy. Their time and financial investments in the YMCA will help ensure that future generations continue to benefit from the programs, relationships, and opportunities that make our Y such a special place.
Gail added, “People give to the Y because it helps the whole community, not just a single person or group of people, but everybody.”
We are incredibly grateful for Karl and Gail’s friendship, generosity, and transformational commitment to the YMCA. Their gifts and ongoing support will have a lasting impact on our Y and the people we serve.
Leave your mark!
Share and preserve your legacy and help us pave the way towards a brighter future for our community!
Bricks are a great way to commemorate:
The Dow Bay Area Family YMCA welcomes more than 1,000 visitors daily, providing meaningful exposure for community supporters. Annual donations of $1000 or more will be proudly recognized in a location visible to all who visit our YMCA.
When you give $1000 or more in a year, you’ll have the special opportunity to choose an inspiring image from our approved selection, which will be proudly highlighted on the banner for all to see.
Serving the individuals and families in Bay County since 1885.
For more information on how to purchase a brick or a banner, please contact: Steve Krankota by email skrankota@ymcabaycity.org or 989-778-3447
Individuals will not be turned away from participating in programs, activities, and/or membership due to their inability to pay. The Y maintains a generous financial assistance program for youth, adults, and families who demonstrate financial need. Funding for this program is provided by fundraising events at the Dow Bay Area Family YMCA and community-wide donors.
There is a reduced joining fee. $25 for Youth/Teen, $25 for Adult, and $50 for Household memberships.