Since Sandra Price began working at the Minot YMCA almost four years ago, she's found it's a positive place to be.
In that time, she's become involved as a fitness instructor for three programs and helps out in various other ways. She is currently the Community Program Services Director for the Y.
"If I see something interesting, I'll ask to be involved. With all of the YMCA programs, if you have the willingness and the desire to succeed, they'll help you succeed with your program," Price said.
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Katina Tengesdal/MDN •
Sandra Price, Community Program Services Director for the Minot YMCA, answers questions for individuals at the YMCA customer service desk.
Price, herself a member of the YMCA, started working at the front desk part-time before becoming a salaried employee.
"One day, I said, I would love to work here. I started part time, and I really liked it. I couldn't ask for anything better," Price said.
Price began as a member at the old YMCA downtown, then joined other fitness clubs before becoming a member at the new YMCA in September of 2001.
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"I can't imagine my life without working out, and I do it five times a week. It helps me keep a positive outlook on life. When you're fit and feeling good, you get a better perspective sometimes," Price said.
"As an employee now, I try to walk the talk. I have had my fitness tested, and I'm doing well with that," she added.
Price has tried a little of everything at the YMCA. In addition to being a fitness instructor, she assists with the Blue Cross Blue Shield health club recipients program, and she provides customer service at the front desk.
"I think the only things I don't do at the Y are lifeguarding and climbing the rock wall," Price joked.
After working at the front desk, Price became involved with the cycling program as an instructor. As an outdoors cyclist, she found instructing that program was a good fit for her.
"The cycling class is for everyone, for beginners on up to hardcore cyclists. In the class, you go at your own pace. If you need to rest, you can rest," Price said.
In addition to the regular cycling program, Price is also involved in a cycling program beginning February first going through March to help cyclers gear up for Bike the Border and Candisc.
Price is also involved as an instructor for the SilverSneakers program, a stretching and strengthening program for older adults, and Itty Bitty Sports, a program teaching sports basics to 3- to 5-year-olds.
"You get to make an impact within a wide variety of age ranges and personalities. With the SilverSneakers group, they are so dependable and appreciative of somebody taking the time with them and being upbeat," Price said.
"With the kids, you can help guide them and point them in the right direction when they're misbehaving," she added.
Price enjoys seeing the Y members and sharing in their success stories.
"It's just a positive environment. The people become like your family. They're coming in here to improve their fitness and to get better, and you hear a success story more often than not from most people," Price said.