GADSDEN – The YMCA of the Coosa Valley will conclude operations as a YMCA on Sept. 30, ending 120 years of service to area children, families, and communities.

The organization announced the decision in a statement thanking its supporters. YMCA leaders described the announcement as difficult but also reflected on the organization’s long history of community service.

The statement did not identify a specific reason for ending operations.

YMCA Continued Serving After Facility Sale

The local YMCA chapter began in 1906. Over the following 120 years, its programs served generations of children, young people, and families throughout the region.

The organization sold its longtime facility in 2023. However, its community work continued through a “Y Without Walls” model.

Under that approach, the YMCA took programs directly into the community. It also formed partnerships with schools, municipalities, organizations, volunteers, and families.

YMCA leaders said those partnerships allowed the organization to continue serving residents wherever programs were needed.

Water-Safety Program Will Continue

During its final three years, the YMCA expanded its Safety Around Water initiative. The program provided lifesaving water-safety education to children across the region.

That work will continue through the Alliance of Alabama and Mississippi YMCAs. The alliance supports YMCA organizations through collaboration, training, advocacy, and shared programs.

Although the local organization is ending, YMCA leaders said its impact will remain. They pointed to children who learned to swim, families who found community, and young people who developed confidence and leadership skills.

The organization also recognized the staff members and volunteers who made community service part of their lives.

“To every donor, volunteer, staff member, board member, community partner, school, municipality, family, and friend who has been part of this YMCA over the last 120 years: thank you,” the statement said.

The YMCA closed its announcement by summarizing its legacy: “120 years. Countless lives impacted. One extraordinary community.”

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