Rogue Valley Family YMCA

On June 6, 1944, the YMCA of Medford, Oregon becomes incorporated in what was the Federal building on North Riverside Avenue.  Dr. Bert Elliott was the first YMCA President.  During the war years this had been used as the USO headquarters.  In 1944, hired Executive Director, Ben Schmidt (then called a General Secretary) and under his leadership the programs for youth flourished and plans were undertaken for a building campaign.

In 1947, Bessonette and Graff Construction Company proceeded to build an activity center for youth, adults and families.  The building was valued at $206,000 but cost the community in actual dollars less than $120,000 due to volunteer labor and materials.  From 1945 to 1949, the Y used the Masonic Hall and space over the old Acme Hardware Store on 6th Street before moving to the present building.  On May 22, 1949, the building was dedicated in a ceremony with the Governor present although some records show the dedication was on June 17, 1949.  Archie C. Pierce was first Chairman of the building.

From 1948 to 1959, the Y developed a camp at Diamond Lake known as Camp Elliott.   D. Ford McCormick and Archie C. Pierce were the key drivers in planning the camp and procuring needed materials.  In 1949, hired Executive Director Robert L. Jones until 1963 then hired Executive Director Don Muhlig from 1963 to 1971.  In 1968, a capital campaign was conducted to make facility improvements.

In 1971, hired Executive Director Mike Murphy until 1997.  In the 1980s, the Y partnered with the Eagle Point School District to operate the White City pool until 1998.  The Y also partnered with the Medford School District at their request due to financial trouble to provide youth sports programs, afterschool programs and alternative education.  In addition, the City of Medford had funding cut backs and asked the Y to take over their child care programs.

From 1990 to 1994, the Y conducted another capital campaign and constructed a new aquatic center, wet locker rooms and a child development center.  From 1992 to 2006, the Y partnered with Jackson County to operate Camp Apserkaha at Howard Prairie Lake providing overnight camping programs.

In 1998, hired CEO/Executive Director Mike Cronin until 2006.  With an emphasis on serving families, a new youth center was established in 2002 and bundled many fee based programs into the membership dues.  In 2005, the Y explored a partnership with the Wes Howard Foundation to help develop a sports park and potentially a new YMCA facility on 68 acres in West Medford.

In 2006, hired CEO/Executive Director Brad Russell.  The Asante Foundation assists the Y to become financially stable.  In 2007, the YMCA of the USA facilitates the completion of a comprehensive strategic plan.  The Board decides to not build a new YMCA facility and instead begins a stage-by-stage remodeling effort starting with roof repair, the climbing gym and the child development center.

In 2009, the aquatic center remodeling project is completed with an ultraviolet water sanitizing system (first in southern Oregon), improved air flow system, automatic handicapped entrance, new lane lines and new starting blocks.  In 2010, started new outreach effort for gang influenced youth and Central Point Parks & Recreation asks the Y to manage the school’s afterschool child care programs.  Remodeled the youth center and both fitness areas including all new fitness equipment.

In 2012, the YMCA starts to organize the entire Pear Blossom Run thus becoming the YMCA’s signature program.  Facility remodeling continues with a new aquatic center roof, remodeled racquetball court, new circuit & stretching room, new aquatic center handicap lift, new cardio fitness equipment and new phone system.  All new outdoor YMCA signs are mounted due to the new national YMCA logo and focus areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

In 2013, the board completes a strategic action plan with feedback from existing members, new members, child care parents, youth sports parents, swim lesson parents, and local Y staff.  Facility remodeling continues with a new gymnasium roof, paint palette and natural playground.