During a recent government meeting, representatives from the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta, including Executive Director Jared Geier and Chief Operating Officer Kristen McEwen, presented an overview of their programs and future plans, emphasizing their commitment to community service and development.

The YMCA is poised to build a new full facility in Mableton, marking the first such initiative in over a decade. This development comes as part of their strategic plan to enhance services in Cobb County, particularly as the area experiences significant growth. McEwen highlighted the YMCA's long history, stating it has adapted through various societal challenges since its founding in 1858, and continues to prioritize community relevance.

The organization serves as the largest provider of early learning programs in Metro Atlanta, operating 13 early learning centers and numerous youth programs. They aim to ensure accessibility, particularly for families in need, by offering financial assistance and transportation for children attending after-school programs.

The YMCA's 2025 plan includes ambitious goals, such as serving 10,000 children with water safety programs, a critical initiative given the rising concerns about drowning. They reported significant membership recovery post-pandemic, with a current membership of 59,000, primarily consisting of families and active older adults.

McEwen and Geier also discussed the YMCA's holistic approach to wellness, which encompasses physical, mental, and social health. They provide various health programs, including diabetes prevention and cancer survivorship support, and have engaged over 15,000 seniors in wellness activities.

The meeting underscored the YMCA's role as a community anchor, with initiatives like the \"Y Without Walls\" program, which brings services directly to neighborhoods lacking facilities. Their partnerships with local organizations aim to address pressing community needs, such as food insecurity and youth employment.

Overall, the YMCA's presentation highlighted their ongoing commitment to fostering inclusive communities and adapting to the evolving needs of the populations they serve.