Calling On Community Partners to Help Shape Our Future
YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is excited to officially kick-start our efforts to revitalize Centre Branch YMCA in downtown London! We’ve now launched an expression of interest process that calls on parties or organizations who are interested in partnering with us to shape the future of this important downtown location for our community.
This is the first step in an extensive process focused on evolving our business model at CBY together with a community partner or partners, with member and community needs at the forefront.
Why We’re Doing This
Centre Branch YMCA has been a steadfast support system in downtown London for over 40 years.
As we envision the next 40 years and beyond, it has become evident that there’s an opportunity to modernize and enhance this location in response to our community’s evolving needs. The recent upswing in social and recreational demands here in London underscores the importance of updating YMCA branches, programming, and support services.
We remain committed to our mission as a charity to build healthy communities and to support people of all backgrounds, beliefs, and abilities. We believe that by helping people shine to their fullest in every aspect of their lives, we can realize the collective strength and potential of our community, for generations to come.
This is not a plan to close Centre Branch YMCA, and our commitment to maintaining a presence in the downtown core remains strong.
Our intention is to enhance and maintain this facility alongside a community partner or partners with shared goals and values to ultimately maintain it as a vibrant centre of community for decades to come. While each facility and community is unique, we’re confident that with the right partner or partners, a revitalized YMCA can be a reality for London’s core.
For instance, we’ve built successful municipal and community partnership models in London, including at our StarTech.com and Stoney Creek YMCA facilities, and in numerous other communities across Southwestern Ontario.
What’s Next?
This is the first step in a process that we anticipate may take years to complete. Right now, there will not be any significant changes. Our current focus is on hearing from interested partners in our community, and securing the right model for Centre Branch YMCA.
As this process progresses and we consider potential partners for this facility, we’ll continue to communicate transparently, using our core values- caring, respect, honesty, responsibility, and inclusiveness - as a guide when making these important decisions.
As we establish a partnership and the right plan for a revitalized Centre Branch YMCA, we’ll ensure our members are made aware of opportunities to provide thoughts and feedback about the types of programs and services they would like to see included.
If you have any questions about this expression of interest, please contact Katie Payler, Regional Manager, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario.
Thank you for your ongoing dedication and support for YMCA of Southwestern Ontario - it’s very much appreciated!
For those interested in the details of the expression of interest, you can access it here.