History

Yesterday

The Huntington YMCA has a rich and proud history.

• First YMCA program began in 1913.
• The first Boy Scouts in Huntington County were organized by the YMCA in 1917.
• 1927, sentiment for a new building was strong in the community. A campaign was conducted with over 3,000 people contributing a total of $229,500 for the new facility. The new YMCA was officially dedicated on May 18, 1930.

Since that building opened, several hundred thousand kids and adults have experienced the positive impact of the YMCA.

• The Huntington YMCA was known throughout the country for the swim team coached by Glen Hummer. The aquatic program produced the a 2-time Gold Medalist Matt Vogel, who won 2 Gold Medals in the 1976 Olympics in Montreal, Canada and the 1964 Olympic Silver Medalist, Gary Dilley. In addition, the legendary George Haines swam for Glen Hummer at the Huntington YMCA. George Haines was the Head Coach for 3 Olympic swim teams and founded the Santa Clara Swim Club, which has produced 53 Olympic swimmers.
• A wide variety of programs have a rich history at the YMCA. Programs such as the Swing-Inn, Kim League Basketball, Pre-School and Camp Dick Runyan has had a positive impact on countless youth over the years.

Today

Today the Y is thriving with over 6,000 members and a variety of new programs impacting many lives. We are working hard to be an active partner in the community. Our programs and the way we structure them encourages and allows each child and adult to reach their potential.

Some of the programs include:

• the Champions League – sports for children with disability
• 3rd Grade Swim & Fitness: Every 3rd grade student in the county, approximately 500 students, receives 6 swim lessons and fitness lessons as part of their physical education class.
• Silver Sneakers: Exercise programs for seniors.
• Pre-School: Half-day program for 2-5 year olds, which includes swim lessons.
• Kim League Basketball: Kindergarten through high school participants. Last Year’s Kim League had over 350 players….the most in our history.
• Swim Lessons: From 6 months and up, kids learn how to swim at the Y.
• Water Aerobics: Classes are held daily for adults.
• Fitness Programs: Yoga, Pilates, Body Sculpting, Aerobics, Zumba and Aqua Zumba, 12 Week Personal Fitness Program, and Kickboxing are all available.
• Much Much More!

In addition to the above programs, the YMCA is working with the Community Wellness Committee. The YMCA is the lead organization for a Lilly Endowment grant that will help provide fitness activities for youth in 3rd through 5th grades, as well as area businesses. For businesses, the YMCA assists in establishing a wellness program for their employees.