HISTORY

The Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) was founded by Sir George Williams in London, England (UK). Along with likeminded friends, Williams organized activities to help combat unhealthy conditions and address the needs of young Londoners by empowering them to improve their lives.

James Dysart invited ministers and laypeople to launch a financial campaign for $26,000.

Construction began on the old Hemphill property

By deeds, Mr. Dysart gave the Hewit Street property (formerly known as Dysart Park) in trust for use by the Y. The property would remain vacant for more than 60 years.

Women’s Auxiliary holds first meeting

YWCA, organized in 1914, ceased operation and merged with YMCA. YWCA and YMCA women’s groups merged to form one club with main purpose to raise funds for the Y, as well as to stimulate interest in Y programs and provide a friendly fellowship for women of the community.

Four bowling alleys were completed.

Y Board and Auxiliary “Follies” hit the headlines.

At a special meeting of the Executive Committee, Representative Carolyn Routch of the Hollidaysburg Women’s Club (HWC) challenged the Board to consider a new building. HWC financed a feasibility study which determined that a new Y building would better serve the needs of the Y than renovation of the Penn Street building.

Board felt they could raise $300,000. Walter Campbell proposed a 10,300 sq. ft. building at a cost of $350,000. Roy Brumbaugh appointed General Campaign Chairman with a goal of raising $400,000.

Board decided to include a pool in the building plan; Cost of new building now estimated at $557,521; goal increased to $600,000

Total pledges received $414,000; Board reconsidered prior decision and decided to put the pool on hold

Pledges reach $505,000

Dysart Park facility dedicated under the direction of President Pat Large

KinderClub Program initiated

Phase II fund drive commences, chaired by Roy Brumbaugh. Goal: $425,000– Pool, Weight & Activity Rooms

75% of Phase II Goal reached with pledges of $308,000

With Walter Campbell heading up the building committee, groundbreaking held for pool shell and extra rooms

Phase IIC – Go for Pool Construction

New North American Game Room added

Outdoor lighted basketball court added; Weight Room expanded

Computer age touches the Y in accounting and programming

The Hollidaysburg Area YMCA President, Vicki L. Wertz, and Board of Directors held a Heritage Celebration to recognize the people who made the Hollidaysburg Area YMCA Dysart Park facility a reality and celebrate 15 years of steady growth in membership and programming.

$100,000 Repair Project on Pool, Locker Rooms and Heating System addresses major capital issues

YMCA opens Children Center in Old Frankstown Elementary School Building

Youth Job Service Program recognized with Department of Health Award

Lynnette Williams Court Renovation Project repaves outdoor basketball and hockey courts, new basketball hoop supports, player benches and scoreboards.

Strategic Planning process identifies facilities as Critical Issue

Expansion Project organized and first gift received

Phase I Expansion Project Dedicated

Extended parking lot with the addition of 120 gravel surface spaces

The use of Social Media established as Y Facebook achieves first 1,000 friends

Discussions of Phase II begin at Board level