Nonprofit Spotlight: YMCA of Delaware

BY REGINA DONATO

The YMCA of Delaware has long been a catalyst for positive change, offering a wide range of programs and services that empower individuals of all ages and strengthen communities. With a rich history spanning 130 years, the organization has never wavered in its mission of promoting health, wellness, and social responsibility within the Delaware community. And yes, it’s so much more than a gym.

The YMCA of Delaware can proudly say it’s the only state-wide YMCA in the United States. With eight main locations spanning from Brandywine to Sussex County, for Delaware in this case, being small has its advantages. Every year, the organization’s programs reach over 70,000 people statewide at every stage of life. “We have a very diversified scope of programming at the YMCA,” explains CEO Jarret Royster. “Our offering of cradle-to-career programming is something that really makes us unique.”

The YMCA of Delaware’s programming falls under three areas of focus: healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility.

HEALTHY LIVING

At the core of the YMCA of Delaware’s mission lies a commitment to promoting health and wellness—both physical and mental. The organization provides state-of-the-art fitness facilities, a diverse range of exercise classes, coaching and personal training, and health support, including diabetes prevention and LIVESTRONG classes. “We recognize that health comes in many layers, and our goal is to provide resources and programs that address the overall wellbeing of people depending on their personal needs,” remarks Royster.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

The YMCA is renowned for its dedication to empowering youth and supporting families. Through a wide array of educational, recreational, and character-building programs, the organization provides young people with opportunities for growth, learning, and social emotional support. “We’ve made a promise to the state of Delaware: that we will work every day to ensure that every kid we serve is on a path to success,” explains Royster.

The YMCA of Delaware also offers comprehensive support for families, including 35 before- and after-school programs, all-day childcare services, parenting resources, family strengthening activities, and economic support. By providing a safe and inclusive environment, the organization helps families thrive and fosters a sense of belonging for all within the community.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

“We’re uniquely positioned here to help build bridges amongst people where it often feels like there’s so many differences,” says Royster. “We engage communities to have agency in deciding the unique aspects of their programming, depending on the needs of their area.”

Ultimately, a happy community is a healthy one. The YMCA actively works towards creating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all. The organization collaborates with local government, agencies, and nonprofits to address pressing community challenges such as food insecurity, educational disparities, workforce issues, and providing training opportunities to help people get from where they are to where they want to be.

“Looking forward, we really want to focus on telling our story,” says Royster. “We want everyone to know the wide scope of services we’re providing for the entire state of Delaware, and we are only growing from here.”

After all, “It’s all at the Y!”