YMCA employee walks 10K, raises $1,750 to send kids to camp

Josh Kerr has been a dedicated employee at the Minerva YMCA for two years, working in maintenance and housekeeping to keep the building clean and in good order. He is a familiar and friendly face to the many children who attend the Y’s programs.

Leslie Strain, the YMCA’s wellness and membership director, said each year the Y hosts a 10K Unity Walk in the spring to raise money for a specific project. This year’s funds were designated to send kids to Camp Tippecanoe, a YMCA camp in Harrison County.

When Kerr learned about the project, he set out to help. He trained for months to complete the 10K and turned to Facebook to ask for donations. His friends and family shared his goal, raising $1,750 — enough to pay the full expenses for two children to attend camp and to help with other needs.

“I just wanted to help kids go to camp,” Kerr said. “And I’m just happy that I could do this project.”

Along the way, Kerr said he adopted healthier habits, giving up fast food and soda and losing weight. Though he works at the YMCA, he said he prefers walking outdoors and has continued throughout the summer. Family and staff were waiting with cheers and confetti at the finish line to celebrate his first 10K.

In addition to his YMCA job, Kerr works at Minerva Elementary School and receives support through the community inclusion and employment programs at the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

“I’m amazed that Josh was able to pull something off to raise that kind of money,” CCBDD Superintendent William Devon said. “It’s remarkable and a positive reflection on him, on the Y and on the community. It speaks very well to what he and other people with disabilities can do.”

Paul Anthony, CCBDD business engagement specialist, agreed. “When I heard what Josh had done, I knew immediately that we had to let the community know,” he said. “He is a fine example of what one person can accomplish. I’m proud of him, and he should be proud of himself.”

Strain said the Unity Walk has funded projects in past years such as buying new equipment for the Y, supporting the financial aid system that helps with membership costs, and donating to the local Hope for Cancer program. The walk is usually held in late March with the route running from the Y through Minerva Park and ending at Minerva High School.