HISTORY OF OUR Y
The Tri-Cities Family YMCA has been proudly serving the Tri City Area since 1963. We are a non-profit social service organization working side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. Our programs and our staff are committed to demonstrating, on a daily basis, the CORE VALUES for which we stand: CARING, HONESTY, RESPECT AND RESPONSIBILITY.
1958
First investigation of possibilities of establishing a YMCA in the Tri-Cities area.
1963
A committee of 54 men and women was formed to raise $15,000 through a Torch Run event. 150 people gave $100 each to raise the financial goal allowing them to establish the Tri-Cities Family YMCA. State and National charters of the Tri-Cities Family YMCA were granted and Dr. David Seibold, was elected president of the first board of directors. Pete Hill was hired as the first general secretary (director). Basic Programs such as gymnastics, paddleball, bridge, volleyball, basketball, square dancing, and aerobics began at the Grand Haven National Guard Armory.
1974
Lead Gifts division of the Tri-Cities Family YMCA, led by John Carlyle and Miller Sherwood, acquired $1,500,000 for construction of a Y facility in Mulligan’s Hollow. On January 10, 1974, the YMCA building construction began.
1976
The Tri-Cities Family YMCA facility opens its doors on Monday, November 8, 1976 to members.
1979
Under the leadership of CEO, Bob Alexander, the Tri-Cities Family YMCA Soccer expands, aerobics programs grow in popularity, the 1st Annual Baas Memorial Day Run (precursor to the Kick-Off to Summer Run) is launched, and the Y sponsors the Coast Guard Road Race. By 1985 the Youth Basketball League takes off. It is one of the first programs that intentionally incorporates girls into local sports programs.
1985
Craig Walter, CEO, expands corporate wellness programs. The Y spearheads a revolution among local corporations to invest in employee health and wellness.
1989
Scott Stinebower, CEO recognizes increasing need for additional programs. With a focus on families, Stinebower helps manage the upcoming building addition that focuses on family programs.
1995
The Tri-Cities Family YMCA 35,000 ft. building addition was completed. It included the West Gym, Learning Tree Preschool rooms, fitness center/weight room, and track.
2003
Patrick Moran, CEO, leads continued renovations that reflect the growing needs for family activities and wellness including Ace Place, Cardio room, and the Mind, Body Studio for yoga and cycling.
2007
Dean Buntley, CEO, launches Healthy Kids Day, 1-mile Family Fun Run and Tot Trot, Splash Bash, and expands preschool programming. Enrollment in summer camps and gymnastics programming double in participation.
2012
Grand Haven Chamber Leadership Connect class took on the project of converting a racquetball court into a Teen Adventure Center with a 20ft. climbing wall. A free after school program for teens was launched.
2013
The Tri-Cities Family YMCA celebrates 50 years of strengthening the Tri-Cities community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
2018
The Tri-Cities Family YMCA welcomes CEO, Gregory Coil. With a focus on sustainability, project reinvest begins with the renovations of the Multi-Purpose space, Cardio Center, and Sauna.
2020
Worldwide COVID-19 Pandemic. Launch of Food Program.
2023-2024
Under the Leadership of CEO, Gregory Coil, the Tri-Cities Family YMCA launches a $10 Million Y For All Capital Campaign focusing on enhancing and expanding early childhood learning services, investing in intergenerational wellness, and stewarding essential infrastructure. The Y For All Campaign is a response to community needs and a thoughtful approach to modernizing a sustainable Y for generations to come.
2025
Capital Improvment project begins.