July 2025 Staff Member of the Month - Karri Hebert

What is your role at the YMCA? 

I am a summer camp head counselor.

Tell us a little about your Y-story. What made you want to come work at the YMCA? 

At the YMCA, I proudly serve as a head counselor, a role that truly feels like home to me. With an associate’s degree in elementary education, I’ve always had a passion for guiding and supporting young minds. Each day, I have the privilege of creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where kids can learn, grow, and build lasting memories. Working with children brings me so much joy, and I love being part of their daily adventures and helping them discover their strengths. It’s more than just a job to me, it’s something I genuinely love and feel grateful to do.

How has the YMCA impacted your life? 

The YMCA has had a huge impact on my life, both personally and professionally. It’s given me the chance to do what I truly love every day working with kids and making a difference in their lives. Being part of the Y community has helped me grow in confidence, leadership, and patience, and it’s taught me so much about teamwork and compassion. It’s also given me a second family of supportive coworkers and amazing kids who make every day rewarding and meaningful. Overall, the Y has shaped me into a stronger, more caring person and reminded me just how powerful it is to help others feel seen, valued, and encouraged.

What do you think the community needs to know about the YMCA of Parkersburg?

The community should know that the Parkersburg YMCA offers a warm, welcoming, and safe environment where kids can learn, play, and grow. The childcare programs aren’t just about supervision, they’re about building confidence, friendships, and lifelong values in a place where every child feels supported and valued.

How have you witnessed the YMCA mission in action?

YMCA Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. 

I’ve witnessed the YMCA mission in action every day through the way staff and volunteers genuinely care for each child and family who walks through the doors. Whether it’s teaching kids to respect and encourage one another, offering programs that support physical and emotional well-being, or making sure everyone feels welcome and included, the focus is always on building a healthy spirit, mind, and body. It shows in the smiles, the friendships formed, and the sense of belonging that the Y creates for everyone.

What is something you are proud of from the last year?

Something I’m really proud of from the last year is how much my team has grown and strengthened our communication. We’ve learned to support each other better, share ideas openly, and work together to create the best possible environment for the kids. It’s been amazing to see how this teamwork has made us more organized, creative, connected and it’s had such a positive impact on the kids and the program as a whole.