The Bloomington area is facing critical community challenges such as affordable child care, an accelerated rate of lifestyle-related chronic illnesses in youth and adults, family stress, and social isolation. The need and demand for YMCA programs has never been greater. These needs are even larger on the city’s northwest side, where residents are generally underserved by community organizations.
The YMCA has a history of changing and growing to meet needs just like this. We are a program innovator, developing services and programs for people with disabilities, for example, as the need grew in the community. Built on the bedrock of our mission, the YMCA has adapted to the changing needs of the people we serve.
A strong, vibrant YMCA is the key to helping communities grow and keeping communities strong. The Monroe County YMCA is responding to these growing community needs with a comprehensive plan to serve more people with life-changing programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all.
Each day, hundreds of people take part in the YMCA through our programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
- Our YMCA serves 5,000 youth and teens.
- 4,660 visits are made each year to The Zone - a fun, interactive fitness area for youth ages 7 - 12.
HEALTHY LIVING
We serve more than 18,000 people in diverse communities within the Monroe County area. On average, 35,000 visits are made to the YMCA each month.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
1891: The Monroe County YMCA was founded as a Christian organization serving students. It was affiliated with Indiana University.
1960: The YMCA moved off the IU campus and opened headquarters on West 17th Street, providing various outreach programs to better serve the entire Bloomington community.
1977: Dr. David Johnloz, Dr. Larry Rink and Bill Cook established a four-phase cardiovascular rehabilitation program and collaboration between the YMCA and the Bloomington Hospital.
1978: YMCA Board of Directors adopted a philosophy to include physical activity, cardiovascular and healthy lifestyle education as a main focus behind every program offered.
Groundbreaking in 1981 |
1981: A new 50,000 square foot facility opened thanks to the generosity of Bill Cook and Cook Inc., the community and a support-a-thon.
1985: 26,000 square foot addition completed, with the help of the Beyond the Dream Campaign.
1995: An 8,600 square foot expansion completed to include a youth / family gym, special needs restroom and new program space.
2001: A renovation expanded the Wellness Center, added multipurpose room, office space, and a yoga studio, and re-designed our lobby.
2011: After two additions and a renovation, the YMCA is a 90,000 square foot facility serving 18,000 members and community participants annually.