The Martinsville Henry County YMCA held an event outlining its future plans on Sept. 19, marking the first step toward the construction of a new facility on Memorial Boulevard in the former Family Dollar building and receive $12 million from the Harvest Foundation.
“This YMCA will provide a wellness center and offer programs that meet a variety of needs. The facility will expand childcare services and focus on enhancing mental well-being,” said Danny Wulff, a member of the Harvest Foundation Board of Directors.
Wulff noted that the new center will benefit the entire community, including residents in the west end. “This project promotes inclusivity and accessibility, ensuring no one is left behind in their journey toward healthier living,” he said.
Kate Keller, president of the Harvest Foundation, spoke about the YMCA’s personal impact on her life. “They are where community happens,” Keller said, sharing how she and her children have benefited from the YMCA’s services. She also emphasized the foundation’s ongoing commitment to improving Uptown and the local community. “This is not Harvest’s first investment in this corner, and it won’t be our last.”
City Manager Aretha Ferrell-Benavides echoed the importance of community and described the YMCA as a home for many, welcoming everyone to the future facility.
Henry County Board of Supervisors member Jim Adams praised the YMCA’s ability to foster relationships. “The YMCA is more than just a facility—it’s a place to form lifelong friendships after joining a pickup basketball game,” Adams said. He added that membership numbers continue to grow, and the current facility is over capacity. The new building will be larger and better equipped to serve the community.
YMCA Director and CEO Brad Kinkema expressed optimism about the project. “I’m thrilled with the support for the Y, and Harvest’s commitment will make this a reality,” Kinkema said. He added that the new facility will offer more gathering spaces and expand programs that the current building cannot accommodate.
The new YMCA will be a 60,000-square-foot facility located on 7 acres of land. It will feature a large fitness center, three gymnasiums, an indoor walking track, expanded childcare services, an indoor aquatic center, and multiple group exercise and community rooms.
Construction is slated to begin in 2026, with the facility expected to open in 2028. The project’s total cost is estimated at $28 million, with $8.5 million being raised through the Transforming Community Capital Campaign and additional funding from grants and other public sources.
Donations to support the project are being accepted. While the current YMCA building will eventually be sold, no buyer has been identified, and the facility will remain operational in the meantime, continuing to welcome new members.
