Every day, the Stark County YMCA gives our community the support it needs to learn, grow and thrive. From disease prevention to childcare, youthsports to swimming, reaching personal fitness goals to building character, everything we do helps strengthen our neighborhood and the people who live here. 

“The Y works to ensure all individuals have the support they need to achieve their full potential,” said Tim Shetzer, YMCA CEO. “We work to provide programs in our communities that address the changing needs."  

The YMCA of Central Stark County serves nine communities and while each branch may look different, the heart of them is all the same. Our heart is our strength and that is our community, which is welcoming to everyone. When you are part of the Y, you are valued, welcomed and part of our family. 

Honestly, to seek one impact story from our Ys is challenging. Every day we are encouraged by our members. Take Justin for instance, he comes to the Y as often as he can (he has progressive Multiple Sclerosis) and remains positive through the pain. Writing is something we might take for granted, but to Justin it is a mountain to climb. Recently, I received a hand-written note from him simply stating, “Keep doing what you do, so I can keep doing what I do.” 

Then there's Ben, a 16 year old who was working to pay for his own membership because he wanted a place to go and belong. He lives with his sister and grandmother, the Y offered him some male role models. We are fortunate that we get to see and hear stories like these thanks to the support or our community.

Everything the Y does is in service of making us, as individuals and a community, better. We work each and every day to develop youth, teach healthy living and help our neighbors. And we need you to be part of it. Your gifts can help Stark County and everyone in it shine!

The Y. Our cause builds community!

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