The Owensboro Family YMCA board of directors has decided to close its local Athenian branch. A detailed study conducted by the YMCA led to the decision to close the facility located at 650 Chuck Gray Court.
The decision to close the branch was made at an Oct. 31 board meeting. The YMCA detailed the closing of the Athenian branch in a Nov. 4 press release written by CEO/President John C. Alexander.
Alexander said several factors were taken into consideration before deciding to close, including member and staff input, member usage and financial realities.
“As a nonprofit charitable organization, the YMCA must always practice good stewardship of member and donor support,” he said. “Closing the Athenian branch will allow the Y to consolidate operations and reduce expenses.”
Alexander said board and staff members are continuing to plan a safe and effective transition for members who have used the Athenian. All classes and services at the Family Y Wellness Center are being arranged to continue elsewhere.
Though some members will be unhappy about the move, Alexander said their membership and support are deeply appreciated. Member forums at the Athenian branch are being scheduled and will be posted this week at www.owensboroymca.org and the facility’s Facebook page.
“The mission of the Owensboro Family YMCA remains ‘to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all,’” Alexander said. “The Y is a place for young and old, rich and poor, male and female. We provide a safe haven for individuals and families to gather for better health and to help build a better community.”
