Years in the making, the new YMCA in Downtown Flint has finally opened its doors!
Located at 719 Harrison Street and named LiveWell on Harrison, the new YMCA officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 28. According to CEO Shelly Hilton, the 50,000 square-foot facility was a $41 million project that also includes a Hurley Physical Therapy Clinic, the Crim Fitness Foundation offices and 50 apartment units. “It’s been a whirlwind of activity and very exciting!” exclaims Hilton. In the works since 2018, the project is the result of a successful partnership with Uptown Reinvestment Corp. Funding included an anonymous donation of $1 million, and a $16.5 million grant from the Mott Foundation to support construction of the new YMCA and mixed-use space. Ground was broken for the project in May 2023.
On April 28, Community members and local leaders came together at the corner of 3rd and Harrison Streets to celebrate the grand opening of LiveWell on Harrison — a vibrant new hub for community health, family growth and personal wellness. | Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
On April 21, the old Flint YMCA closed its doors with a very moving ceremony. “There was a lot of history in that facility,” Hilton shares. Many of the members came to say goodbye and share nostalgic moments, speaking of how generations – themselves, their kids and grandkids – were impacted by going to the Y. But, they are also very excited about the new facility,” she adds.
“This new YMCA stands as a testament to what the community can accomplish together.”
Shelly Hilton, CEO
There are approximately 3,000 members at the new location, the CEO reports, and they currently can accept more. Different membership types are available for all age groups and sign-up can be done online at flintymca.com. “We are getting great feedback from the members so far,” Hilton shares. Many people are using a day pass to check out the new facility. “We are seeing a lot of new faces coming through the doors.”
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
So, what will you find at the new Y? The upper floor features an Indoor Walking Track, with windows providing natural lighting and a great view of the city. The facility includes various amenities: a Fitness center, Aquatics Center, Child Watch, and Fitness Studios. The weight room offers state-of-the-art cardio equipment, Hilton points out, and the variety of scheduled fitness classes includes yoga and step classes, which are very popular. The six-lane pool will be completed this summer, Hilton reports. The Aquatics Center also has a family splash pad, hot tub and sauna.
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
The YMCA offers financial assistance to those in need. “It is very important to us that the Y is accessible to everyone,” Hilton notes. “This is our community. We want all people to come to the Y.” Another key program is the Kids Zone, where staff will watch a child while mom or dad takes an hour for self-improvement and relaxation. A free after-school program is also available.
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
Hilton has worked at the YMCA for 25 years, starting as a staff member at Camp Copneconic in Fenton. She has held various positions at all of the branches, becoming CEO in November 2019. She says her career with the Y is very meaningful to her. “It’s about lifelong learning and lifelong belonging. We bring people together – diverse ages and diverse people. Everyone has a place at the Y.”
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
And, Hilton is proud to state that the YMCA is more than just bricks and mortar; its programs aim to support youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. “It’s a beacon of hope and opportunity, a space where lives are transformed, where children grow strong in mind and body, where families connect and thrive, and seniors find belonging and purpose. This new YMCA stands as a testament to what the community can accomplish together.”
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
Mission Statement
The Mission of the YMCA of Greater Flint is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
Focus Areas
Youth Development: Empowering young people to reach their full potential
Healthy Living: Improving individual and community well-being
Social Responsibility: Providing support and inspiring action in our communities
The Y nurtures the potential of every youth and teen, improves the nation’s health and well-being, and provides opportunities to give back and support neighbors.
Photo Courtesy of BH Photographic
What Makes a Y Different?
The YMCA recognizes the potential of all people to make our community better. Because we want to eliminate barriers that prevent people from coming to the Y, we provide many free and income-based programs to make it easier for everyone to come to the Y.
Diversity, Inclusion and Global Statement
The YMCA of Greater Flint is committed to creating meaningful change in our community by working to be a space where all people, perspectives, and ideas are welcomed.
Source: flintymca.com
