As the YMCA evolves to serve future generations, a new facility represents the next step in continuing our 158-year history of providing infrastructure and services to meet the needs of our community.
The Halifax YMCA was founded in 1853 by Samuel Cunard, a civic and business leader. The South Park YMCA replaced the original YMCA location on Barrington Street and has served as the health, recreation and social centre on the peninsula since it first opened in 1951. This facility was designed to address the needs of the post war era including housing for veterans, social spaces, a chapel and auditorium as well as special features such as a gymnasium, pool and a bowling alley. The YMCA taught thousands of children how to swim and helped build the leaders of our community.
For 59 years, the South Park YMCA has provided programs and services to help improve the health and well-being of our community at no cost to the taxpayer.
Over the years, the YMCA has grown and evolved to address emerging societal and community needs. In addition to health, fitness and recreation areas, the current building also houses licensed childcare, international student residence and YMCA Association offices.
Today, the YMCA touches the lives of over 50,000 people in the community every year. Programs and services are open to all, regardless of individual economic circumstance.
