Greater Cleveland YMCA

Kindness starts with one action, one moment, one choice. As part of the United States of Kindness, we’re inviting our members to be part of something bigger.

Take the pledge today: www.USofKindness.org

Our newest thought leadership article explores why the greatest lessons from youth sports happen long after the final whistle.

Join the conversation on LinkedIn:

The real return on investment of youth sports By Timothy Hilk, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Cleveland Summer is one of the busiest seasons for youth sports. Across our communities, families invest significant amounts of time and money in practices, games, tournaments and travel teams.

A stronger Cleveland starts at the Y. 💙

With 11 branches across Greater Cleveland, the Y is where neighbors connect, families grow stronger, kids thrive, and communities come together. No matter where you are in your wellness journey, there’s a place for you here.

Find your Y and be part of something bigger. clevelandymca.org/join

Today we celebrate Carl B. Stokes Day, honoring the life and legacy of Cleveland's trailblazing 51st mayor and the first Black mayor of a major American city. Mayor Stokes believed in expanding opportunity, strengthening neighborhoods and ensuring every person had the chance to build a better future. His vision continues to inspire our city today.

We're especially proud that Y-Haven serves individuals on their journey to recovery and stability at Stokes Mall, a building that bears his name. Every day, men and women walk through our doors seeking hope, healing and a fresh start. Through recovery services, housing support, workforce development and compassionate care, lives are being transformed in a place that reflects Mayor Stokes' enduring commitment to serving Cleveland's people.

On Carl B. Stokes Day, we honor not only a historic leader, but the belief that every person deserves opportunity, dignity and the chance to thrive. That's a legacy we're proud to carry forward every day at Y-Haven.

The YMCA of Greater Cleveland is grateful to receive a $100,000 State of Ohio capital budget award to support the expansion and renovation of the Lakewood Family YMCA.

We extend our sincere thanks to State Senator Nickie Antonio and State Representative Tristan Rader for their leadership and advocacy on behalf of the Lakewood community and the YMCA.

For more than 105 years, the Lakewood Family YMCA has been a place where individuals and families strengthen their health, build connections and find support. We are also proud to celebrate 20 years in our current facility. This investment will help ensure we can continue serving the Lakewood community for generations to come.

Today we had the privilege of celebrating one of our greatest strengths—our people.

Staff members from across the YMCA of Greater Cleveland were recognized for reaching milestone anniversaries of 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service. President & CEO Timothy Hilk personally thanked each honoree and presented their service awards, recognizing the commitment, compassion and leadership they bring to our Y every day. Picture are Tish Bowling from Youth Development; Nancy Friel from our Hillcrest branch; Cynthia Moore from our Lakewood branch and Angelea Patrick from our West Park branch.

Whether they're welcoming members, teaching children to swim, supporting individuals in recovery, leading fitness classes or strengthening our communities in countless other ways, these dedicated team members have made a lasting impact on thousands of lives.

Thank you for your years of service and for living our mission every day. Together, we're building stronger people, stronger families and stronger communities. 💙

👔 Did you know Father’s Day started at the Y?

The very first Father’s Day celebration took place at the Spokane YMCA in 1910, inspired by Sonora Smart Dodd to honor her father, who raised six children on his own. More than 100 years later, we’re still celebrating the dads, grandfathers, mentors, and father figures who help shape stronger families and communities. 💙

Happy Father’s Day from all of us at the Y!

Today, we honor freedom, resilience, and the continued pursuit of equity as we celebrate Juneteenth.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865 — the day the last enslaved African Americans in the United States learned they were free, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. It is a day to reflect, celebrate Black history and culture, and recommit to building stronger, more inclusive communities for all.

At the Y, we believe in creating spaces where everyone belongs. ❤️🖤💚

YMCA of Greater Cleveland President & CEO Timothy Hilk visited the Geauga Family YMCA this week and had the opportunity to meet with members of the branch's Advisory Board and leadership team. We are grateful for the dedicated volunteers who help guide our work and strengthen our connection to the community. Their insight, passion and commitment help ensure the YMCA remains a place where everyone can experience well-being and belonging.

Thank you to our Geauga Advisory Board for your leadership and service! Picture left to right are Debbie Johnson, Rick Izant, Paul Stromp, Branch Executive Director Ben Altemus, Jack Binder, Tim, Kristy Mowry, Lisa Fabiny and Brittany Sustar. Not in the photo are Geauga Advisory Board members Tia Lawrence, Jon Pyle and Tracey Reinbrecht.

Your workout time = their play time 🎨🧸

Did you know Childwatch is a FREE member benefit at the Y? While you focus on your fitness, your kids can enjoy games, activities, and fun with trusted YMCA staff in a safe, welcoming space.

A little time for you, a lot of fun for them.
Join Today: clevelandymca.org/join 💙