INDIANAPOLIS (Jan. 31, 2025) — The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis, in partnership with the Athenaeum Foundation, has announced that YMCA operations at the Athenaeum location, as they exist today, will conclude on March 28, 2025. After that date, downtown YMCA operations will fully transition to the Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay, the organization’s nearest center. This decision comes after extensive discussions and careful consideration with the goal of ensuring the YMCA’s long-term sustainability and continued impact in the community.
The Athenaeum Foundation is exploring new opportunities for the space to continue to operate as a community-focused wellness center, while the YMCA will remain committed to serving the Indianapolis community through its 11 other centers and diverse programs that focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The Athenaeum Foundation and YMCA of Greater Indianapolis have worked harmoniously together for decades. The consolidation of YMCA operations at this time is not the result of any business dealings between the two non-profit organizations.
“This was a very thoughtful decision made following consultation with our trusted partners at the Athenaeum Foundation,” said YMCA CEO and President Gregg Hiland. “While transitions like these are never easy, we are confident that this change will position the YMCA to better serve our community and fulfill our mission for years to come.”
The YMCA at the Athenaeum has played a significant role in the lives of its members and the community. From fitness programs to youth activities, the location has been a hub for fostering connection and wellness. The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis remains deeply grateful to the members, volunteers and donors who have supported the organization’s work at this location.
For more information about the YMCA and Athenaeum, please visit indymca.org and athenaeumindy.org.
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About the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis
With locations in Indianapolis, Avon, Fishers, Lebanon and Westfield, a 240-acre overnight camp, and a Youth Development service branch, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis helps individuals and families build healthy spirits, minds and bodies. Every day, the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis gives our neighbors the support they need to learn, grow and thrive. As a nonprofit organization, the YMCA is able to provide opportunities to the community because of the generosity of donors.
About the Athenaeum Foundation
The Athenaeum Foundation preserves a treasured German-American landmark that encourages all to nurture a sound mind in a sound body through arts and culture, wellness, and community. Based on the values of its founders, the foundation offers programming that lifts spirits and engages diverse communities. Built in 1894, the Athenaeum, formerly known as Das Deutsche Haus, serves as a community center for many cultural, business and nonprofit groups, including the YMCA, Indiana Performing Arts Centre, React and The Rathskeller restaurant. The Athenaeum is listed three times in the National Register of Historic Places: for architecture and historical significance, as well as for its location in the Massachusetts Avenue Commercial District and the Lockerbie Square Historic District.
YMCA of Greater Indianapolis Contact:
Tony Wise
317.402.4393
twise@indymca.org
Athenaeum Foundation Contact:
Craig Mince
317.655.2755
cmince@athenaeumindy.org