Our Y Stories

We are proud of the more than 75 kids who participated in last month's We Run This City program. The We Run This City (WRTC) Youth Marathon Program is a collaboration between the YMCA of Greater Cleveland, the Cleveland Metropolitan School District and the Cleveland Marathon.

As you prepare to celebrate dad on June 15, you may be surprised to learn Father’s Day began at the YMCA. It was founded in Spokane, WA, at the YMCA in 1910 by Sonora Smart Dodd, whose father, William Jackson Smart, had raised six children on his own.

As we enter the summer months, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland emphasizes the vital importance of water safety and swim education for families in our community. With drowning incidents on the rise nationally, proactive measures are essential to ensure the well-being of our children. Alarming Statistics: A National Concern

At its annual meeting held on May 22, the YMCA of Greater Cleveland’s Board of Directors elected two distinguished community and business leaders— Stanley Jackson and Karin Bonev —to serve on its governing board.

Carolyn Cacho (pictured left) is a member of the Hillcrest Family YMCA. You’ll find her at the branch several times a week, with a smile on her face and joy radiating from her. We had the opportunity to sit down with Carolyn to ask her how the Y has become part of her routine.

By Timothy Hilk, President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Cleveland