More Than a Gym—How the Union County YMCA is Powering Community Growth

derekschwyn
May 22
2 min read

“What’s the YMCA really about?”

If your first thought is swim lessons and gym memberships, you’re only scratching the surface.

In a recent conversation on the Good Stuff Podcast, I sat down with Trevor Secord, CEO of the Union County Family YMCA, to explore what’s really happening behind those walls off the highway in Marysville. Spoiler alert: it’s a lot more than you think.

💡 The YMCA: A True Community Engine

Trevor Secord has led the Y for over six years and brings a fresh, energetic vision to the nonprofit’s mission: to strengthen the foundations of community through mind, body, and spirit. From wellness programs for seniors to youth sports that emphasize confidence over competition, the Y is a hub for meaningful human connection.

Some lesser-known highlights:

Tai chi and Silver Sneakers classes designed for older adults
Mental health partnerships for teens through the Mental Health Recovery Board
Affordable youth sports that focus on character development, not just wins
A thriving pickleball scene that bridges generations

And perhaps most importantly? The YMCA ensures no one is turned away due to financial hardship.

🏀 The Junior Cavs Program: Building Confidence, Not Just Players

A standout example of the Y’s impact is the Junior Cavs basketball league, where kids get more than just a jersey—they get an experience. From fog-machine jersey reveals to coaching clinics with the Cleveland Cavaliers’ youth team, it’s about creating memories, mentorship, and self-worth.

🏗️ Planning for the Future: A Bold Expansion on the Horizon

As Union County continues to grow, the need for centralized recreation space is outpacing current offerings. Trevor shared exciting plans to double the YMCA’s footprint with a facility that could include:

Indoor soccer fields
Basketball courts
Indoor track
Teaching kitchens
Expanded childcare
A permanent home for the gymnastics program

If funded, it would be one of the most significant investments in local recreation infrastructure—and it can’t come soon enough.

🤝 A Call to Action: Support and Show Up

Trevor left listeners with this challenge: “Come back to the Y. You might be surprised how much it’s changed.” Whether it’s through membership, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, there are many ways to be part of the movement.

Check out their website to start exploring...click the image to be taken to their site.

And if the Y isn’t your thing? Re-engage with any organization doing good work. Chances are, they’ve grown and adapted just like the YMCA has.

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Final Thought

What makes a great community isn’t just growth—it’s how we grow together. The YMCA is living proof that when organizations invest in people, neighborhoods thrive.

So go ahead—check out the Y, say yes to volunteering, and keep building the good stuff.

Let me know if you’d like social media captions, a pull quote graphic, or newsletter blurb to go with this!