The Auburn YMCA is experiencing significant growth, marked by an increase in membership, facility upgrades, and an evolving camp program, according to YMCA board president Robert Scarbrough and Camp and Family Programs Director Gracie Murphy. The two appeared on Beyond the Front Page with host Guy Cosentino to discuss the organization’s latest developments.
Membership Growth and Facility Investments
Scarbrough reported a 16% increase in membership over the past year, with the YMCA now serving more than 3,000 members. He credited the rise in participation to post-pandemic recovery efforts and expanded programming.
“We’ve bounced back from COVID, and membership numbers are above where they were before the pandemic,” Scarbrough said.
Financially, the YMCA has had a strong year, enabling reinvestment into facilities and programs. Recent upgrades include a new HVAC system for the Allen Reiffer pool to improve temperature and humidity control, as well as renovations to the childcare area, including the addition of toddler care. The YMCA also received a grant allowing it to expand preschool and afterschool programming to the Cato-Meridian School District.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on the long-term future of the YMCA’s main facility on William Street. At over 125,000 square feet, much of the building remains underutilized. Leadership is considering options to modernize and maximize space efficiency, with a feasibility study planned to determine potential capital projects.
“We don’t want to invest in something now only to renovate it later,” Scarbrough explained. “We’re assessing how to make the space more inviting and useful for the community.”
Community Assessment and Fund Development
The YMCA recently conducted a community assessment, gathering input from local leaders on how the organization is perceived and what services are most needed. One takeaway was the need for facility improvements, particularly modernized locker rooms.
To support these initiatives, the YMCA formed a Fund Development Committee, chaired by board member Kelly Gridley. This committee will oversee fundraising efforts, including an annual support campaign aiming to raise $75,000 this year. Last year’s campaign exceeded its goal, reaching $81,000.
CEO Search Nears Conclusion
The Auburn YMCA is also in the final stages of hiring a new CEO. After an extensive search facilitated by the national YMCA organization, four candidates have been selected for interviews. These finalists include one local candidate, another with ties to Auburn, and two with extensive YMCA leadership experience.
Final interviews are scheduled to take place this week, with a decision expected soon.
Expanded Camp Programming and Youth Engagement
Murphy, a longtime YMCA camp alumna, detailed exciting changes coming to the YMCA’s summer camp offerings. This year, the organization is expanding overnight camp from two to three weeks, with one week dedicated solely to resident campers.
“We wanted to take in more kids this year, so we structured a week where we aren’t running day camp alongside overnight camp,” Murphy explained.
Located on the east side of Owasco Lake, the YMCA’s camp program provides activities such as archery, sailing, arts and crafts, and team-building exercises. The popular Leaders in Training and Counselors in Training programs will continue to prepare older campers for potential staff roles in future summers.
Additionally, the YMCA is bringing back its Construction Camp, which teaches campers practical skills while working on a hands-on project to improve the facility.
Registration for both day and overnight camp is currently open, with financial assistance available. Last year, the YMCA provided nearly $200,000 in scholarships to ensure accessibility for all families.
Commitment to Community and Health Initiatives
Beyond summer camps and facility improvements, the YMCA continues to expand its health programs. One of its most impactful offerings is the LIVESTRONG program, which provides free memberships and structured fitness training for cancer survivors and their families.
The YMCA also hosts family-oriented events, including Healthy Kids Day, a free public event featuring vendors, games, and activities promoting youth wellness.
“We want to be the center of the community,” Scarbrough said. “The Y is more than a gym and a pool—we’re about connection, growth, and accessibility for everyone.”
With strong membership numbers, ongoing facility investments, and an expanded commitment to youth programming, the Auburn YMCA is positioning itself as a vital resource for the community.
For more information on memberships, camp registration, or upcoming events, visit the Auburn YMCA website.
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