Doug Tveiten has been a part of the YMCA since 1994. He originally joined twenty five years ago because he wanted to swim laps, lift weights, walk the track, and take aerobics classes. He had no idea it would become such a big part of his routine and the people he passed in the hallways every day would become like family to him. Though his routine has changed over the years, you can still find Doug almost every morning at 9:00am walking through the doors of Fercho, with his walking stick, wide-brimmed hat, and a big smile.

Back in 2011 after Doug was retired, he was approached by a staff member at the YMCA asking if he would ever be interested in driving bus for the Y’s before and after school child care programs. Employees knew Doug and knew that he would be an awesome fit on the team. Doug drove bus for five years. He loved interacting with the children and making a positive difference in their lives.

Most recently, Doug has enjoyed Community Lunch for Seniors, a program that started in June 2019 and is a partnership between the YMCA of Cass and Clay Counties and Valley Senior Services, a subsidiary of the Fargo Park District. Warm and hearty meals are served every Monday through Friday in the Social Center near the west entrance of the Fercho YMCA. Meals are served between 11:30am – 1:00pm and are free will donation for anyone ages 60 and above. Doug stays after his workout almost every day to enjoy a meal and fellowship with his friends. “It’s so convenient to eat here,” Doug explains, “because I’m already in the building!”

When asked what his favorite meal is, Doug responded with “Spaghetti!…Actually, I love everything!”

More than the pool, and the weights, and the meals, it’s “the people” that bring Doug into the Y’s doors every day.