The YMCA is celebrating 175 years of serving communities throughout the United States with locations in over 10,000 neighborhoods across the country. Their campaign, called “No Place Like This Place,” highlights the work that the Y continues to do to strengthen communities, encourage connection and foster relationships.
Ann Arbor’s YMCA has been doing just that since its founding in 1878. Founded by University of Michigan students, it was the second YMCA in the state of Michigan at that time, following Detroit. Today, the Y is known for its many programs aimed at enriching the lives of children, teens and adults.
“The Ann Arbor YMCA strives to be a community anchor and a place where people of all ages come not just to work out, but to belong, connect and thrive,” James Highsmith, President and CEO, said. “I think what sets the Y apart is that it is a mission-driven, not a transaction-driven, organization. At our core, the Y exists to strengthen our community by putting our core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility into action every day.”
Highsmith sees this mission being carried out in the Ann Arbor community through the many programs that are offered.
“All of our work falls within three primary areas of focus—youth development, social responsibility and healthy living. This can mean swim lessons for youth and adults, sports leagues, chronic disease prevention, community connection and clubs and everything in between. Through our financial assistance and community partnerships, the Y ensures that cost is not a barrier and that we are an organization that focuses on intentionally serving anyone and everyone within our community,” Highsmith said.
Families find that the YMCA becomes an important place to connect with each other and with other members.
“We often hear from our families that the Y feels like a second home,” Highsmith said. “I think this sentiment often comes from the values-driven environment that we offer. Families trust the Y because our programs emphasize character development and are growth-oriented. We support families through all of life’s stages, and as a family might grow or change, the Y is adaptable and grows with them.”
YMCA programs for families
Childcare
Child Watch at the YMCA offers free drop-in child care for parents attending classes.
Ann Arbor YMCA Child Development Center is a NAEYC- accredited full day program that is available to families Monday through Friday, 7:30am-6pm. Families can also choose two, three and five days a week attendance. After-school care is also available.
The Collaborative: Ypsilanti YMCA Child Development Center serves children whose parents are attending Eastern Michigan University. It also serves those in the nearby community. Located in the Chapelle Community School at 111 South Wallace Boulevard, this program is available to children ages six weeks to twelve years. Before and After School Care for ages 5 to 12 is also available.
Teen programming
Teens are encouraged to participate in the many camps and programs offered. On Thursdays and Fridays from 4-6:30pm, teens (ages 12-16) can also drop in to the Teen Center, where they can play foosball, air hockey and ping pong. Crafts, seminars and scheduled programs are also offered, along with free snacks.
RELATED: We Rock The Spectrum Kids Gym Opens in Ann Arbor
Adult programs
From ballet to basketball, adults can choose from a wide variety of programs. Fitness classes include karate, hip hop, jazz, swim and strengthening. Seniors can benefit from classes that will address arthritis, Parkinson’s and more.
Adult learning programs are also offered, including Beginning and Intermediate Spanish, First Aid and CPR training, nutrition and health and wellness.
Camps
YMCA Camp AGQ celebrated its 100 anniversary in 2025. Situated on Burt Lake, this overnight camp for students ages 8-16 services 1,300 campers each summer and provides memorable experiences to last a lifetime.
Camp Birkett Outdoor Center in Pinckney is a day camp for children ages 5-14. Children learn and explore the outdoors along the shores of Silver Lake.
Camp New Heights offers summer programming for children ages 5 to 14. These day camps are held at The Collaborative in Ypsilanti. Each week, campers are encouraged to explore new themes while making friends and enjoying new experiences.
Camp Treetown is a day camp held at the Ann Arbor Y where students ages 5-17 can learn new skills and try new experiences.
Youth sports
Student athletes can hone their skills through the many leagues and programs. Aquatics, gymnastics, track and basketball are offered, along with lessons in other sports.
Y on the Fly
SportPort brings the Y to local churches, parks, schools and more. These 90-minute programs bring sports equipment and activities to Ypsilanti, Chelsea, Manchester and Pinckney on various days of the week.
Ann Arbor YMCA
400 W. Washington St.
734-996-9622
annarborymca.org
Open Mon.-Fri, 5:30am-9pm
Sat.-Sun., 7am-6pm
