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 the 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 1964 Olympic Silver Medalist, Gary Dilley, and the 1976 Olympian Matt Vogel, who won 2 Gold Medals. In addition, the legendary George Haines swam for Glen Hummer at the Huntington YMCA. George Haines was the lead coach for 3 Olympic swim teams and founded the Santa Clara Swim Club, which 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 YMCA is thriving with over 2,800 members and a variety of new programs impacting many lives. Some of the programs include:
- Miracle League: Baseball program for special needs youth.
- 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 school day.
- Silver Sneakers: Exercise program for seniors.
- Pre-School: Half-day program for 2-5 year olds, which includes swim lessons.
- Kim League Basketball: Kindergarten through 8th grade participants. Includes a travel team that plays other local YMCAs.
- 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, 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.
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