In 1854 some of Harrisburg’s most prominent men gathered to meet about a problem plaguing many of America’s cities: how to keep a growing population of young men off the streets and out of trouble. At the time, the YMCA was growing rapidly in American cities, having been first established in London, England. 2024 marks 170 years of the Harrisburg Area YMCA impacting the community with a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.
You can help us ensure our legacy.
The YMCA remains passionately invested in the community, and is always looking to ensure the survival of our legacy of community impact. An important part of that legacy is the East Shore YMCA branch at the corner of North & Front Streets, established in 1933 as the Central Branch YMCA. This beautiful facility is part of the fabric of our Harrisburg community because of the relationships that have developed inside the walls. From stories about finding a spouse at a dance in the gym, to learning a skill that led to a career, our friends and neighbors know the Y inside and out.
The YMCA is entering a long-term planning period that is being kicked off by a Request for Expressions of Interest (RFEI) process to develop a Master Site Plan for the East Shore YMCA. The intent of this process is to assess the facility at the East Shore YMCA location, and understand what future revitalization opportunities may be available to produce a Master Site Plan. The YMCA has retained Gro Development, a firm focused on advancing the YMCA’s portfolio of community-based centers and real estate assets to be the most innovative, magnetic, inclusive, high-functioning and sustainable places for youth development, personal well-being and community engagement. This is the beginning of a years-long planning process that will be focused on setting community priorities, right-sizing our facilities, and serving our residents in a way that creates value for years to come.
FAQ: East Shore YMCA RFEI Process
What is the purpose of the RFEI?
The YMCA is interested in learning what possibilities for future operations may exist, and the RFEI process will show what may be in the best interest of the YMCA and the community. This RFEI is not intended as a formal offering for a future negotiated transaction. However, the YMCA may select one development program best suited for the YMCA and the community’s needs and enter into a non-exclusive negotiation for an agreement moving forward.
Why is the YMCA starting to work on future planning through the RFEI?
The East Shore YMCA has been an integral part of the community since its establishment in 1933, yet the broader impact of the YMCA on communities dates back to 1851. Through programs and services fostering a healthy spirit, mind, and body, the YMCA has built a rich legacy of community service. To sustain this legacy, it is imperative that the YMCA’s forthcoming Master Site Plan incorporates financially viable and sustainable operations specifically at the East Shore YMCA location.
The existing facility and outdated infrastructure pose challenges to operational sustainability in the current membership environment. To enhance the YMCA’s capacity for community service, potential modernization and expansion efforts can be realized through collaborative partnerships and relationships. By addressing these needs, the YMCA aims to better serve and support the community, aligning with its longstanding commitment to holistic well-being.
Who is receiving the RFEI?
The YMCA and Gro have compiled a list of developers that meet several criteria to review and submit proposals. The YMCA is committed to diversity and expects that any proposal would demonstrate local inclusion and equity in the project team and the workforce. The YMCA is managed by community leaders committed to Harrisburg’s growth and prosperity. As much as possible, the YMCA will prioritize local partnerships that include voices from our unique Harrisburg community.
How will the YMCA involve members of the community in this process?
During the Master Site Planning Process, the YMCA has identified touchpoints where emails will be sent to Staff, Volunteers, Supporters, and Members with updates. In addition, the YMCA plans to hold community meetings to share the progress on the Master Site Plan and discuss ideas and concerns. These meetings will be announced via email and on posters at the Y. Interested members should attend to hear how the Master Site Planning process is progressing, and what opportunities the YMCA may undertake.
What will happen to the people who live at the Y?
In the short term no changes are foreseen. Long term, the YMCA is dedicated to minimizing any disruptions in housing and services for its current residents, prioritizing their well-being. During the RFEI process, partners capable of orchestrating permanent supportive housing solutions for East Shore YMCA residents, whether on-site or off-site, will receive additional consideration. As this is a lengthy process, the YMCA will take great care in informing the residents at the East Shore YMCA if any changes or disruptions are anticipated as more details are known.
How will the YMCA help their members access services if the Y is not available?
Given that this process is a lengthy one, the members who use the East Shore YMCA will be provided plenty of notice before any disruptions are to occur. If the facility is under construction/ renovation in the future membership services like equipment and classes can be accessed at the East Shore YMCA members will be encouraged to utilize the other three local branches of the YMCA: the Camp Curtin YMCA on 6th Street, the Friendship YMCA in Lower Paxton Township, and the West Shore YMCA in Camp Hill. Programmatic shifts like sports, aquatics, and other programming will be communicated when disruptions are confirmed.
When will the community start to see changes?
The YMCA is going to take their time with the Master Site Planning process to ensure that any confirmed changes are in the best interest of the community and the YMCA. The YMCA has been in the Harrisburg community for 170 years, and that legacy is significant to our many advocates. It is our job to ensure that the YMCA mission continues for another 170 years, impacting Harrisburg, and bringing people together. The Y board and staff are dedicated to continuous learning, attentive listening, and crafting thoughtful strategies that not only champion the initiatives of our community but also ensure the enduring legacy of our organization for years to come. This will take time, care, and lots of conversations, so changes may be years away.
Have a question that isn’t answered here? Feel free to email us a question and we’ll respond in 7-10 business days. Please remember that this process is ever-evolving and if your question is specific, we may not have an answer for you until a later time.
