To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
The Family YMCA of Fayette County’s impact will be to become the community’s center for growth of self-esteem, confidence, and self-worth for the community. We will be viewed as a safe haven for families, where family values are present to enrich the lives of our members.
We advance our mission of To put Christian Principles into Practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Our promise is that though the world may be unpredictable, one thing remains certain – the Y is dedicated to building healthy, confident, secure, and connected children, families, and communities. Our values are: Caring – show a sincere concern for others, Honesty – be truthful in what you say and do, Respect – follow the golden rule, and Responsibility – be accountable for your promises and actions. Our voice is Determined, Genuine, Welcoming, Hopeful, and Nurturing. We Strengthen the foundations of our community by serving Health Seekers, youth, adult, and senior members, in Vandalia and Fayette County through Healthy Living, Youth Development, and Social Responsibility. We emphasize our strategic advantage of believing that the entire family unit is welcome, and that no one is turned away due to their inability to pay. We ensure this by providing financial assistance to anyone who needs it. We model strong Christian values and build a sense of community where everyone is someone. We are sustainable by a diverse revenue stream including earned revenue, contributed income, and grants.
HISTORY
1981 - a steering committee of 10 area citizens gathered for a series of public meetings that winter. Their goal was to determine if there was public support for a YMCA in Fayette County. After many meetings and surveys, the group decided there was enough support to pursue a YMCA charter.
April 22, 1982 - the first board of 18 directors was elected. Jeff Kinkle was chosen as the first president, Dale Freeman vice president, Dale Timmermann treasurer, and Karen Herrington secretary. The others board members were Ernie Chappel, Sally Miller, David Anglin, Arnold Olson, Gene Wells, Larry Bennett, Jan Johnston, Randy Edwards, Jim Atchley, Mark Miller, Golda Shulman, Leo Eisert, Joe Sheets and Mike Mabry.
June 24, 1982 - the first YMCA program was held. The first YMCA program was a day camp with 54 participants.
June 28, 1983 - office space was donated to the YMCA; it was located in the First National Bank building.
1984 - The Family YMCA of Fayette County received their YMCA charter on 4/26/1984.
1985 - YMCA moved to 109 ½ South 5th Street on June 10, 1985, its previous location.
1989 - the YMCA truly became a “Fayette County” Family YMCA. Programs were held in Ramsey, Brownstown and St. Elmo.
2005 - the new building planning process officially started May 1, 2005, with a meeting of key individuals.
2006 - the KC College Master Site Plan was released and YMCA building was on their site.
2008 - the Old Capitol Foundation donated $1,500,000 to the YMCA. This donation made it possible for the YMCA to proceed with building the new YMCA facility.
July 24, 2010 - we opened the 710 N Rock Island facility.
2013 - the YMCA completes Racquetball and Dojo addition.
2014 - the YMCA completes the DeeDee Hartz Memorial Playground and Pine Ridge Homes Pavilion.
