YMCA Merger to Take Effect January 1

Information from the Philadelphia & Vicinity YMCA:

The YMCA of Philadelphia and the Freedom Valley YMCA completed the final phase in their merger process, with a member approval to proceed with uniting the two organizations to form the Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA, effective January 1, 2013.

The approval was ratified by members of both organizations on Thursday, November 15, 2012. With this ratification the newly formed Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA will be one of the largest YMCA Association in the country, with 15 branch locations, located throughout Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties, serving nearly 140,000 members.

"Both the YMCA of Philadelphia & Vicinity and the Freedom Valley YMCA have exceptional history and tradition of serving our members and communities. The merging of our two Y's will form a stronger association, with expanded resources and programs designed to improve the quality of life for all," said John F. Flynn, President & CEO of the YMCA of Philadelphia & Vincity. "Signature YMCA programs such as swimming, child care, youth sports, day camp and wellness will continue to be at the forefront, and as the newly formed Phildelphia Freedom Valley YMCA will be among the top 10 Y's in the nation, we will have the resources to develop and deliver new, innovative program."

"I am delighted with the approval of this merger. This is a win-win for everyone involved, members, staff, volunteers and the communities that we serve," said Jay Schaeffer, President of the Freedom Valley YMCA.

Both the YMCA of Philadelphia & Vicinity and the Freedom Valley YMCA have an unwavering commitment to delivering first class program and services that promote Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. The newly formed Philadelphia Freedom Valley YMCA will carry on this tradition while strengthening services to the community.