Our History

What began as a small youth center has grown into a place for all, where individuals and families come together to stay active, connected, and supported.

A Heritage of Service

The YMCA originated in 1844 in London, England. YMCA came to North America in 1851. Today there are more than 2,500 YMCA’s serving 20 million kids, adults, and seniors

Our Mission

At the Worthington Area YMCA, our mission is “To put Christian principles into practice that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body.” We are a Young Men’s Christian Association that provides memberships, programs, and services that ultimately help us to build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.

Our Service

The YMCA is a charitable organization that exists to serve the community where there is a need. Our service includes a variety of recreational, wellness, and social service based programs for infants though senior citizens. The YMCA will not turn any individual away from membership or programs regardless of race, color, creed, religion, sex, or national origin.

1944

The City of Worthington and the YMCA became partners to create the first YMCA. The first home was the former Union Congregational Church. Founders included E.O. Olson, Harry Rickers, V.M. Vance, John L. Olson, Henry Hagge, R.W. Lowry, C.E. Stower and Alvin Graf.

1955

The YMCA moved to the Old Armory. Built in 1910, many improvements and changes were made to build a gym, handball court, physical fitness area and offices.

1964

A $235,000 capital campaign built the swimming pool addition.

1981

$894,000 was raised to construct a new gymnasium and fitness center. Also, renovation of the “Old Armory” area and exterior of the YMCA was completed.

1987

A campaign for $460,000 was completed for lobby and entry improvements.

2009

The Y opened its doors at its current location on the Minnesota West Community and Technical College Campus, in Worthington, MN.

This new 45,000 sq ft new facility is home to many new members and hosts a vast variety of programming for the entire family for the entire Worthington Are