MILL CREEK, WA – The Mill Creek community is welcoming a new leader to one of its cornerstone institutions. The Mill Creek Family Ymca is delighted to announce Gina Casagrande as its new Executive Director. Casagrande steps into this pivotal role bringing a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the YMCA’s mission. With over 17 years dedicated to the YMCA, Casagrande’s journey spans across various departments, showcasing her versatility and commitment to community service.
Casagrande’s extensive YMCA background includes significant contributions to programs ranging from youth camps and child care services to sports and aquatics programs. Prior to joining the Mill Creek Family YMCA, she served as the Executive Director of the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA starting in April 2021. Her transition to Mill Creek marks a return to her home community, further fueling her dedication to serve her neighbors.
“I am incredibly excited to be part of the Mill Creek Family YMCA and to serve the community where my family lives and is deeply connected,” Casagrande stated. “Working within my own community provides a unique and rewarding perspective. I can directly witness the positive impact of our work and stay closely attuned to the evolving needs of our neighbors, ensuring the Mill Creek Family YMCA effectively serves everyone.”
During her tenure at the Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA, Casagrande demonstrated exceptional leadership by forging strong alliances with the City of Monroe and various community organizations. She is credited with building a high-performing staff team and fostering a positive and inclusive atmosphere for both staff members and YMCA members.
“Coming out of the challenges of the pandemic, our team at Monroe/Sky Valley Family YMCA demonstrated remarkable resilience and collaboration, contributing significantly to the revitalization and growth of our branch,” Casagrande reflected. “I am eager to embrace new opportunities and challenges at the Mill Creek Family YMCA. We have a solid foundation with excellent programs, engaged members and participants, and strong board support. I am confident that we can build upon these strengths to further enrich our community.”
Looking ahead, Casagrande is focused on strengthening ties with local schools and community groups to broaden the Mill Creek Family YMCA’s reach and impact. A key priority is expanding adaptive programs at the Mill Creek Y, ensuring that adults and children with diverse abilities have access to vital YMCA services and programs.
“My vision is for the Mill Creek Family YMCA to be a welcoming and inclusive space for every individual in our community,” Casagrande emphasized. “We want everyone to know that they belong here. Our team is committed to helping each person discover their passions, whether it’s through health and wellness initiatives, volunteer opportunities, or any of the diverse programs we offer.”
Before her move to the Pacific Northwest, Casagrande dedicated 15 years to the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, holding various positions and gaining diverse experiences. Her connection to Washington State began in childhood, with summers spent visiting her father on Whidbey Island. This early exposure fostered a lasting appreciation for the Pacific Northwest.
“Washington State offers an incredible lifestyle with its access to outdoor activities like fishing, camping, hiking, and rock climbing – activities I truly love. The mild summers here are a welcome change from the intense heat of Georgia. I wanted my children to experience and appreciate the outdoors,” Casagrande explained. “Professionally, I was seeking a new challenge, and the opportunity to be closer to my father, combined with the appealing prospect of joining the YMCA of Snohomish County, made this move an ideal decision in every way.”
As she embarks on this new chapter as Executive Director of the Mill Creek Family YMCA, Casagrande is most enthusiastic about sharing the Y experience with those who may be unfamiliar with all that the YMCA offers.
“The Mill Creek Family YMCA truly has something for everyone,” she concluded. “I warmly invite everyone in the community to come visit us and discover all that we have to offer!”
