The Athens YMCA will mark its 168^th anniversary on Wednesday, March 26, 2025 and announce a $9.3 million capital campaign to ensure its facilities and programs are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the community. The Y has already received $4.6 million toward the campaign goal. As one of the 10 oldest YMCAs in the country, the Athens Y has been a pillar of support for generations, fostering youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

“We like to say that we are not a gym—we are a GEM. YMCAs are not just gyms or pools—they are lifelines for communities,” said Shae Wilson, CEO of the Athens YMCA. “We offer a beacon of hope for all under one roof. We are owned and supported by the people we serve, and now we need the community’s help to write the next chapter in our story.”

The campaign -- “Building A Stronger Community” -- seeks to renovate and expand key areas of the YMCA, including the creation of the Cobern Kelley Youth Wing, named in honor of a leader who left an indelible mark on the Athens Y. This new space will provide enhanced resources for children and teens: multipurpose rooms, a computer lab, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) spaces, and a dedicated youth area for devotion and personal development. Other improvements include wellness rooms for seniors, inclusive areas for special needs, expansion of the Child Watch Center, community and training rooms, an expanded wellness center, and improved fitness spaces. 

The project is expected to be completed by December 2027 and the Y will stay fully operational during construction.

"The Y is an important part of the history of Athens, and we are proud of the role that we have played here for 168 years,” said Grant Tribble, Chair of the Athens YMCA board. “This campaign is an opportunity for our members and the community to build on those years of service and to make sure that the Y will be here for decades to come prepared to serve the diverse needs of our community. We are excited about the plans we are making for our future and grateful for the support we have already received."  

The Athens YMCA began in 1857 on the University of Georgia campus as a men's Bible study, laying the foundation for a legacy of faith and service that continues today. The Y has had only five CEOs in its 168 years, a remarkable record of leadership stability. Its first CEO, Walter T. Forbes, was also the first men’s basketball coach at UGA. The Athens YMCA has called three different locations home. One of its most storied locations was in what is now the Georgia Theatre, where the Y housed an iconic "iron tank" swimming pool that became a legendary part of Athens history. Later, it moved to the site of the former Holiday Inn in downtown Athens before settling into its current facility.

“Our history and tradition are the foundation for a bold and beautiful future,” added Wilson. “The enhanced Y that we will create as a result of this campaign will be a space that is prepared to serve our community for decades to come.”