YMCA celebrates 10th anniversary of West Y facility with free community event

TRAVERSE CITY — The Grand Traverse Bay YMCA will celebrate the 10th anniversary of its West Y facility during a free community event on Sept. 25.

The festivities will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, in partnership with Traverse Connect, at 2 p.m. followed by light refreshments, giveaways and facility tours of the West Y. All are welcome to attend.

"This is a significant milestone for the Y," CEO Andy Page said. "This facility has really become a cornerstone for our community, providing a safe and welcoming space for everyone to grow in mind, body and spirit. We look forward to building on this legacy of service for many years to come."

Founded in 1963, the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA has celebrated considerable growth since opening the West Y on Sept. 22, 2014.

Membership in that span has grown from about 800 members to now more than 15,000. West Y members tallied nearly 350,000 facility visits in 2023 alone.

With more than 150 employees at four Traverse City branches, the Y continues to make its mark. The nonprofit specializes in inclusive membership and program offerings that meet the changing needs of the community.

Examples include group and aqua fitness classes, swim lessons, youth and adult sports, summer camp, personal training, wellness programs, lecture series and social events. Community needs continue to be an emphasis.

Earlier this year, the Y expanded its summer camp program by opening a second site at nearby TCAPS Montessori. This month, the Y launched a free cancer survivorship program, Livestrong at the YMCA.

"Our goal is to deepen the impact we've made over the past decade," Page said, "and provide even more opportunities for personal and community growth."