A Lady on the Go

Winnie's Story

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important through all stages of life. The Duneland Family YMCA supports lifelong health by hosting the Y Senior Center. There, seniors can participate in classes through Y Silver Sneakers, and stay engaged with friends and other community members. One senior, Winnie Wukich, was chosen as the Duneland Family YMCA Senior Center’s Senior of the Month!

Winnie was born in Montpelier, Ohio. After the loss of her father, Winnie’s family was forced to move, and ended up in Gary, Indiana. She married her husband Dan in 1960 and they have two daughters and four grandchildren. Winnie began her teaching degree at Indiana University Northwest. It took her twelve years of part-time classes to earn her degree, but through hard work and perseverance, she achieved her dream of becoming a teacher. After 25 years of teaching kindergarten and first grade in the Gary school system, Winnie retired in order to help take care of her grandchildren.

The Y Senior Center provides a place for Winnie to stay busy and engaged. She often supplies snacks and prizes for Senior Center activities. The Y staff love having her around: “Winnie is a kind and generous person. She's a lady on the go,” says Senior Center Coordinator, Nancy Zlamal. “We're fortunate to have her in our lives!” Both the Y staff and those who participate in classes, activities, and other programs benefit from Winnie’s thoughtfulness. Congratulations, Winnie!

For more information about Duneland Family YMCA Senior Center program, visit dunelandymca.org.