'Helps Brighten These Challenging Days": Northbrook Hero

NORTHBROOK, IL — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Beth Congbalay, of Northbrook, who nominated Karen Brownlee, of Northbrook:

Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
No

What does the nominee do for work?:
She is the Adult Program Coordinator at the North Suburban YMCA

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
Karen wears many hats at the North Suburban YMCA, including personal trainer and fitness instructor; coordinator of the Adult Education Series, Caregiver Support Group, and Brain Games; and organizer of the Social Club for seniors. When the Y had to close their building due to the "Shelter in Place" orders, Karen did not let that stop her. She got to work at home and tirelessly set up free virtual programs to keep the community connected through video platforms. This included creating videos of her fitness classes that people can access from home, as well as a program to walk virtually with a trainer or a buddy.

Each weekday she hosts meetings online for adults who are often isolated except for their interaction with her. This includes a book club, discussion of current events, social time and caregiver support. She also arranges phone calls to check in on people who are feeling alone and isolated. The free Adult Education Series has continued virtually, and she sets up speakers on a variety of financial, legal and health topics. She has also been walking by Y members' homes to wave and say hi from a safe distance.

Karen truly touches so many lives through her programs and helps brighten these challenging days.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
Karen is very kind and dedicated to helping others.

Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.

Past Northbrook Patch Local Heroes Stories

• Volunteers After Hours To Help COVID-19 Patients: Northbrook Hero
• 12-Year-Old Raises Funds To Buy Ventilator: Northbrook Hero
• Helps Feed People In Need: Northbrook Hero
• Sunset Foods Manager Works Tirelessly
• 'Miss Carol' Entertains Area Kids
• 'She Goes Extra Mile For Local Seniors'
• 'She Chooses To Be Kind'