Our Story

On December 12, 1854, the Harrisburg YMCA was officially established, becoming the eighth YMCA in the United States. Founded by some of Harrisburg’s most prominent leaders, the Y quickly became a trusted gathering place for fellowship, growth, and service.

The Harrisburg YMCA found its first permanent home at 2nd and Locust Streets. This branch made history as the first YMCA in the country to provide lodging, offering safe and affordable housing for young men seeking opportunity in the growing city.

In 1903, the Central Branch YMCA completed construction of its new facility, expanding its programs and presence in downtown Harrisburg.

The YMCA’s first summer camp program launched in 1918 in Perry County. The camp offered boys an opportunity to explore nature, build lifelong friendships, and grow in character outside the city.

Recognizing the need for inclusion and equity, the YMCA established a branch for people of color in 1919. Meeting first in a rented room, it provided safe space, community, and opportunity for African Americans in Harrisburg.

A tradition of outdoor adventure expanded in 1925 with the opening of Camp Shikellimy north of Harrisburg. For decades, the camp became a summer home for thousands of youth, instilling confidence, leadership, and lifelong memories.

In 1933, the Forster Street Branch opened as a facility dedicated to serving the African American community during a time of segregation. The same year, the East Shore YMCA on Front Street was constructed, marking a significant expansion for the association.

The Y had expanded its programming to include organized sports such as fencing, boxing, basketball, and swimming. What began as simple recreation quickly grew into structured opportunities that laid the groundwork for the wide variety of health and wellness programs the Y offers today.

The West Shore YMCA first opened as a program branch, eventually growing into a full-service facility by 1972.

The Forster Street Branch was demolished in 1964, but its legacy of connection and community remains part of our story.

Two years later, the Camp Curtin Branch was constructed in Uptown Harrisburg, continuing the Y’s mission of serving youth and families in Harrisburg’s neighborhoods.

Camp Shikellimy closed due to low enrollment, bringing an end to a beloved chapter for generations of campers. The Y carries its traditions forward through summer camp programming at our facilities.

In 1994, the Northern Dauphin County YMCA was established, followed by the opening of the YMCA Child Development Center at Halifax in 1995, meeting a growing need for quality childcare in the region.

The Harrisburg Area YMCA completed major facility expansions at the East Shore, West Shore, and Northern Dauphin County branches. These improvements were made possible through a successful Capital Campaign to support the needs of our growing communities.

The outdoor pool facility closed due to rising expenses. This transition allowed the Y to focus resources on strengthening year-round programs and services for families.

The YMCA Center for Healthy Living was founded in 2016, deepening the Y’s role in health equity and community wellness.

The Camp Curtin YMCA opened its doors to the Harrisburg Area Food Pantry, giving the pantry a new home and strengthening the Y’s role as a hub for community support and care.

Serving over 20,000 active members and countless community members, the Harrisburg Area YMCA remains steadfast in our commitment to serve.