Jackson is Closer to Goal of New YMCA

Young man, it might almost be time to hit the dance floor.

There’s reason to celebrate in Jackson as the city moves closer to reaching its goal of a new YMCA. The collaborative process that brought together the city of Jackson, Granger Construction, architecture and engineering firm Bergman and Gro Development, and fundraisers had raised nearly $23 million at the end of 2021 on a $25 million funding target.

“There is a great deal of enthusiasm and excitement about the programs, services and opportunities that will come from a new Y in downtown Jackson,” said Shawna Tello, CEO of Jackson YMCA. “The Y is humbled by the support we have received. Because of our generous donors and their investment, our new Y and our partners will help the YMCA transform the health and well-being of our community and, without long-term debt, be sustainable for generations to come.”

The new facility will include roughly 6,500 square feet for Henry Ford Allegiance Health, 1,000 square feet for Big Brothers Big Sisters and a total of more than 70,000 square feet of functional space. Jackson’s current YMCA is approximately 66,000 square feet.

“The community of Jackson is excited to see our YMCA grow and improve,” said Craig Hatch, president and CEO of the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce. “Having our YMCA downtown has kept our residents active beyond just physical activity. With the help of generous donors, both corporate and individual, we are able to continuously better our community by making visible, structural and modern improvements to Jackson staples like the YMCA.”