History of the Yoga Collective of Yakima

Removing Barriers from the Start

At YOCO, our mission has always been to make yoga accessible to everyone in Yakima. From the beginning, we’ve worked to remove barriers—offering classes in Spanish, Chair Yoga for those with mobility challenges, yoga in memory care facilities, yoga for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and Basic Yoga classes designed for all abilities and experience levels. When you join us, you become part of a welcoming, inclusive community.

How YOCO Began

YOCO’s story started in 2009, when Michele McGinnis moved to Yakima, eager to share her passion for yoga. In 2013, she founded YOCO as a nonprofit organization, determined to create a space where you could feel comfortable—regardless of income, language, body type, attire, or experience. Michele’s vision was simple: free, inclusive yoga for all.

Growing Through Community Support

Our growth is a testament to the power of community. With the generous support of our community—through volunteering, donating, teaching, and participating—YOCO has thrived. Our Board, instructors, and supporters have ensured that we continue to offer more free classes each year to a growing and diverse population. Partnerships, like those with Memorial Valley Hospital, have helped us expand Spanish-language classes and reach even more people.

Finding Our Home

YOCO’s journey has taken us through several locations. We started in a rented space at Rainier Square Plaza, moved downtown to North 2nd Street, and, after a brief period without a studio, returned to Rainier Square. In 2024, we found our current home at Glenwood Square. Along the way, you may have joined us for classes at Wilridge Winery, Children’s Village, libraries, retirement homes, or even outdoors and online during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Leadership and New Beginnings

Leadership at YOCO has always been about service and vision. In 2020, when Michele’s journey took her elsewhere, Marsha Threlkeld stepped in, bringing her experience in yoga, movement, and nonprofit leadership. Under Marsha’s guidance, we expanded our offerings and deepened our community impact.

In 2025, we entered a new era. With gratitude, we honored Marsha’s years of dedicated service as Executive Director. Marsha continues to inspire as a teacher and leader in our Yoga Teacher Training Program. This year we welcomed Judy Panagakos as Executive Director and Jami Pottratz as Program Director. Their energy, creativity, and commitment have brought fresh momentum to YOCO, inspiring both volunteers and participants.

Looking Forward

Our journey is far from over. With your support, we continue to expand our reach, offer new classes and formats, and enhance teacher development. YOCO remains committed to inclusivity, mindfulness, and community support—guiding every step forward.

If you're interested in additional details about YOCO’s history, please see these articles by Yakima Herald-Republic writers and others who have been very generous in their coverage and support of YOCO over the years.

Yoga Collective looks for new downtown location

By Tammy Ayer tayer@yakimaherald.com

Oct 5, 2015

Shop talk: Yoga community flexible, offers Yoga Collective spaces to operate

By Mai Hoang maihoang@yakimaherald.com

Oct 26, 2015

Michele McGinnis : Bringing Yoga & Yakima Together

By Jill Klepach

Apr 28. 2017

Yoga in Yakima: 'A great mental breath of air'

By Jane Gargas Jgargas@yakimaherald .com

Aug 2. 2017