GALLERY: What’s going on at the “Y” in Steuben County
BY: Johanna Elattar,
The Tri-County YMCA of New York has long been a staple of community wellness and support in Hornell and surrounding areas. Since its founding, the YMCA has been committed to providing health, fitness, and social services to individuals and families, emphasizing inclusivity and community development. What began as a small, localized center has blossomed into a region-wide network of services, expanding into neighboring towns like Dansville and Bath, as well as growing its presence within local schools.
Expansion and Community Impact
The last few years have been particularly fruitful for the Tri-County YMCA, as highlighted in its 2024 Annual Report. The organization has steadily grown, with new branches, increased program participation, and a significant jump in staffing. In 2024 alone, over 1,400 children participated in various youth programs, ranging from swimming lessons to arts, sports leagues, and after-school care. The YMCA’s reach now extends across the region, with new facilities in Dansville and Bath, and an expanded role in local schools.
Kristoph Kocan, the CEO of the Tri-County YMCA, emphasized the growth in the areas they serve, particularly in their after-school programs, which have expanded from just a few school districts to nearly a dozen. The organization’s commitment to addressing the childcare gap in local communities has led to partnerships with several school districts to provide essential after-school care and enrichment. “Childcare is a growing need in our area, and the YMCA is stepping in to ensure that children have access to safe, educational programs,” said Kocan.
Additionally, the YMCA has been making strides in inclusivity by partnering with Special Olympics to offer the Young Athletes program in Hornell, with plans to expand to Bath and Dansville. These partnerships highlight the YMCA’s goal of serving not just traditional youth sports but also reaching out to a broader audience to offer programs that benefit everyone.
Employment Growth
The YMCA’s growth has also had a significant impact on local employment. Over the past three years, the organization has more than doubled its workforce, employing 240 staff members in 2024. With over $2 million allocated in wages, salaries, and benefits, the YMCA has become a major employer in the region, providing job opportunities in various areas, including childcare, fitness, and administration. As Kocan shared, “The more we grow, the more jobs we’re able to offer, and that’s a big bonus for the communities we serve.”
Financial Health and Member Engagement
While membership numbers have remained steady, the focus of the YMCA in 2024 shifted toward enhancing member engagement and facility usage. With membership penetration already at 23-25% in the region, Kocan noted that the YMCA’s focus in the coming year will be on making the most of the current member base. Facility usage has seen an uptick, particularly in fitness classes and personal training. Members have embraced the offerings of certified trainers and fitness instructors, taking advantage of the free classes included in their membership. This shift has helped make the YMCA not just a gym, but a hub for community health and wellness.
Tom and Joyce DeWall, members of the Hornell YMCA, shared their positive experience with the organization. They highlighted the YMCA’s inclusivity, particularly through the programs designed for people with Parkinson’s disease, as an example of how the YMCA strives to cater to the needs of all its members. “We’re proud to be part of an organization that prioritizes inclusivity and wellness for all members,” the couple stated in the YMCA’s 2024 report.
Looking to the Future
The Tri-County YMCA’s commitment to growth is clear, and the future looks even brighter. I spoke with Kristoph Kocan, the CEO of the Tri-County YMCA, and Natalie Donhue, the Regional Executive Director, who shared plans for further enhancing the facility’s offerings. One of the most exciting developments involves new fitness equipment, which was donated by local businessman David Walden. These additions will further improve the YMCA’s fitness center, allowing them to continue meeting the needs of a growing membership.
In addition to new equipment, there are several key renovations scheduled for the next few years:
- Pool & Courts Upgrade (Summer 2024): A new splash pad will be installed, along with renovated locker rooms and upgraded courts.
- Arts Center Renovation (Approved Oct 2024, Ongoing): This renovation will feature a new entrance, ADA upgrades, improved lighting, and a kitchen overhaul.
- YMCA-led Programming Shift (Started Late 2024): The YMCA is transitioning from space rentals to becoming an active programming hub, furthering its role as a community leader in education, wellness, and social services.
As the YMCA continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of promoting healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. The Tri-County YMCA’s success over the past year demonstrates the positive impact it continues to have on the community, and with these upcoming improvements, the organization is poised to make an even greater difference in the years to come.
Johanna Elattar is a Hornell based writer who loves putting some “Sun” light on the great things happening in the area. You can reach her anytime at, americangrrl70@gmail.com
