From the Director – Building for the Future

Over the past two years, your YMCA has emerged from a period of challenge, change, and recovery to a place of even greater strength. Through this time, our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of our community has been unwavering. Because our mission compels us to serve all, last year we provided $928,089 in mission impact in the two-county area – a record amount.

In just a few short years, we will celebrate our 150^th anniversary as a local charity. To keep our Y strong for the future, we are making significant investments in our facilities and programs:

• Our total renovation of the Community Y at Gulf Breeze will be completed by the end of this year.
• We are renovating the former Andrews Institute space at the Bear Levin Studer Family Y to expand the fitness area and provide multi-purpose space for intergenerational programs. We expect this project to be completed by next summer.
• We are expanding the Pullum Family Y, adding a modular building to accommodate childcare programs, renovating the locker rooms, and expanding the wellness floor.
• We are investing in programs such as teen leadership, YMCA Reads, afterschool enrichment, Safety Around Water, and health education while exploring new opportunities to collaborate with our nonprofit friends to address pressing community needs.

Amid this growth, we are experiencing the same upward pressure on costs that you are likely facing in your life. Increases in the cost of wages, supplies and materials, insurance, and utilities are challenging our capacity to maintain the quality experience our members expect and deserve while also investing in the facilities and programs we need to serve you.

A rate change will take effect with your membership draft in January 2025. Regional rates and Pullum rates will increase approximately 3%, which translates into a $1-$2/month change, depending on the membership type. Gulf Breeze rates will increase 5%.

All Gulf Breeze-only members who have maintained membership during closure for construction will remain at your current rate through 2025. This does not require any action on your part.

If this increase creates a barrier for you or your family, we encourage you to apply for Y Assistance. We remain committed to providing assistance so that everyone has the opportunity to learn and grow at the Y.

For more than a workout. For a better us.