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We’re excited to announce that the Women’s Locker Room will reopen on Wednesday, February 12th!

Please note: Our new lockers are on back order and are expected to arrive in April. In the meantime, some of the old lockers will be temporarily placed in the space until the new ones arrive.

Men’s Locker Room Renovations:

• February 17th: Bathroom and shower areas will be closed. The dry area will remain open until Friday, February 28th.
• After February 28th: The entire men’s locker room will be closed for renovation.

We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue improving your Y experience. 💪 If you have questions, please check in with our Welcome Center staff.

The annual YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest kicks off this weekend, January 31 and February 1, bringing runners and families from across the region to Tybee Island for a two-day celebration of health, wellness, and community. Hosted by the YMCA of Coastal Georgia, the event benefits youth programs that serve children and families throughout Coastal Georgia.

Participants can choose to run one race or complete all five to reach a total of 26.2 miles—the equivalent of a full marathon. The weekend promises something for everyone, whether you’re a serious runner or just looking to enjoy a fun, family-friendly event.

Friday: The Taste

The festivities begin on Friday evening with the Mauldin & Jenkins Kid’s Run at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Chamacos Tacos & Surf 5K at 6:00 p.m. Runners will enjoy music by Gary Strickland, delicious food from local vendors, and beverages provided by generous sponsors.

Friday night also offers a special preview of the Savannah Magazine VIP Experience from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., featuring private lounge access, assorted beverages, and grab-and-go snacks.

Saturday: The Test

Saturday morning kicks off bright and early with the Southern Cross Hospitality 10K at 7:00 a.m., followed by the Chu’s Mart Half Marathon at 8:30 a.m., the Keystone Association Managers 2.8-Mile Beach Run at 12:00 p.m., and the West Construction One-Mile Run at 1:00 p.m. Racers can push themselves to new limits, whether tackling one event or completing the entire marathon distance.

Post-race festivities will feature rotating local food vendors, Creature Comforts beer for those eligible to partake, and more music by Gary Strickland. Over 1,200 runners are expected to participate this year, with weather forecasts predicting warmer temperatures than in past years.

VIP ticket holders will enjoy an exclusive Savannah Magazine Saturday VIP Experience from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., which includes bottomless mimosas in a souvenir cup, sweet and savory treats from Byrd Cookie Company, Le Macaron French Pastries, Savannah Bee Company, and more.

Commitment to Sustainability

This year, the YMCA is making an extra effort to keep Tybee Island clean by partnering with Hiccup Earth to replace plastic water cups with sterile, reusable alternatives at aid stations along the course. Additionally, Savannah Distributing will provide post-race beer in recyclable cans, and Curbie Sanitation will supply additional recycling bins.

A Regional Impact

Proceeds from the YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest support vital youth programs across the entire Coastal Georgia region. These programs help children build confidence, learn valuable skills, and achieve their potential in a supportive environment.

“The YMCA Critz Tybee Run Fest is a powerful example of how our community comes together to support meaningful causes,” said Joel Smoker, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. “Every race registration directly contributes to programs that help children across Coastal Georgia build confidence, learn new skills, and reach their full potential. We’re proud to continue this tradition and grateful for the community’s incredible support.”

Register Now

It’s not too late to sign up! Registration is open at TybeeRunFest.com. Participants can register for individual races or sign up for all five events to complete the full marathon.

***Updated: FRI, JAN 24, 2025*** 5PM

Winter Storm Update for Saturday Operations

Date: Saturday, January 25

On Saturday, all YMCA of Coastal Georgia branches will operate with adjusted hours. Please note the following:

• Opening Time: All branches will open at 8:30 am, unless their regular opening time is later, in which case they will open on schedule. Closing will be at the regular time.
• Sports: All sports activities, including games and practices, are cancelled for the day.
• Services: There will be no Childwatch, group fitness classes, or other scheduled programs available on Saturday.
• 24-Hour Access: For branches with 24-hour access, this feature should now be fully operational.

As always, your safety is our top priority. Please use caution while traveling, as some roads and bridges may still have icy patches. Stay informed by following guidance from local and regional authorities.

For ongoing updates and details, please bookmark this page.

Thank you for your flexibility and understanding. We look forward to seeing you at the Y!

The new year is a time for fresh starts, bold goals, and the resolve to make positive changes. If you’re looking for a place to kick off 2025 with purpose, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia is here for you.

Through January 31, the Y is offering an unbeatable opportunity: join for free with $0 joiner’s fee and your first month on us. But the Y is so much more than just a gym—it’s a community, a resource, and a partner in your journey to better health and well-being.

Your Fitness Goals, Your Way

Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or taking your first steps toward fitness, the Y has something for everyone. Our branches are equipped with top-notch facilities, including pools, gymnasiums, and group exercise studios. Plus, our EGYM Smart Fitness system—a cutting-edge personalized workout solution available at seven locations and coming soon to Tybee Island YMCA—takes the guesswork out of fitness.

With intuitive technology that adapts to your goals and progress, EGYM helps you stay on track while building confidence and strength. It’s like having a personal trainer in your pocket!

Building Community Along the Way

When you join the YMCA, you’re not just signing up for a fitness membership—you’re becoming part of a movement. At the Y, workout friends become lifelong friends, and good habits become meaningful routines. You’ll find yourself surrounded by people who are cheering for your success, and you’ll also have opportunities to give back to your community.

Programs like A Place to Dream, which provides beds to children in need, and programs like free swim lessons for underserved communities are just a few examples of how the Y strengthens Coastal Georgia every day. When you join the Y, you’re helping fund initiatives that make our neighborhoods healthier and more connected.

Why Wait?

The new year is already here, and the best time to start is now. Joining the YMCA of Coastal Georgia means you’re investing in yourself and your community. Here’s what you’ll get when you join:

• State-of-the-art fitness options like EGYM and group exercise classes.
• Programs for every member of the family, from youth sports to senior wellness.
• A welcoming, inclusive space where you can work on your goals at your own pace.
• Access to all YMCA branches across Coastal Georgia.

Join Today

This special offer ends January 31, so don’t let it pass you by! Sign up for free at ymcaofcoastalga.org or stop by any of our branches to get started.

Make 2025 the year you strengthen your resolve, focus on your health, and build stronger connections in your community. At the Y, it’s not just about what you achieve—it’s about who you become and the difference you make.

This is Y. This is where it all begins.

Bank of America Grant Fuels Lifeguard and Childcare Workforce Development

This year, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia continued its commitment to youth workforce development by empowering local young people while meeting critical community needs, thanks to a generous grant from Bank of America. The funding enabled the YMCA to hire and train dozens of youth, placing them in essential roles as lifeguards and summer childcare workers across the Savannah area.

With the support of Bank of America, the YMCA was able to enhance its summer programs, ensuring that families had access to safe, high-quality childcare and aquatics services during the busiest months. This initiative not only provided young people with meaningful employment but also equipped them with valuable job skills, leadership training, and certifications that will serve them for years to come.

“This program was about more than just summer jobs,” said Joel Smoker, CEO of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. “It was about investing in the future of our community by giving young people the tools they need to succeed. Thanks to Bank of America’s support, we were able to strengthen our programs and provide a safe, enriching environment for families.”

“Partnering with YMCA of Coastal Georgia is part of our commitment to creating sustainable change in Savannah,” said Patrick O’Neil, president, Bank of America Savannah. “Investing in Savannah nonprofits demonstrates how Bank of America is taking action to provide the resources and support needed to help build thriving communities long-term.”

The impact of the grant was especially evident in the YMCA’s aquatics programs, where newly trained lifeguards played a critical role. “We had one of our best summers yet,” said Camille Stone, Aquatics Cabinet Lead. “The lifeguards were not only highly skilled but also enthusiastic and dedicated, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all who visited our pools. It was a true community effort.”

“We are committed to empowering and developing the next generation. In 2024 alone, we hired 92 teens—37 of whom were rehired from previous years—bringing the total to 129 youth employed by the YMCA this year. Thanks to the support of the Bank of America Foundation, we’re able to create opportunities for young people to grow and succeed, inspiring change that ultimately builds a stronger community for us all,” said Meketa Brown, Advancement Director for the YMCA of Coastal Georgia.

The success of the YMCA’s youth workforce development initiative exemplifies the power of community partnerships and strategic investment. As the YMCA of Coastal Georgia reflects on this year’s achievements, it looks forward to continuing to create opportunities for local youth, ensuring a stronger, more resilient future for the greater community.

ABOVE PHOTO: Joel Smoker, President and CEO of YMCA of Coastal Georgia, and Meketa Brown, Advancement Director, accept a check from Amy Repella, Senior Vice President and Savannah Market Executive for Bank of America, and Patrick O’Neil, Bank of America Market President. The grant from the Bank of America Charitable Foundation supports the YMCA’s youth workforce development initiatives, empowering local teens and meeting critical community needs.

BELOW: YMCA of Coastal Georgia lifeguards at this year’s Lifeguard Rodeo, fully staffed and trained thanks to the support of a generous grant from Bank of America. This funding allowed the YMCA to provide comprehensive training and employment opportunities for local youth, ensuring safe and well-supervised aquatics programs throughout the summer.

Special Membership Offer Runs from Black Friday to Jan. 31, 2025

This holiday season, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia invites individuals and families to start the new year strong—with a healthy lifestyle and a stronger sense of community. Beginning Black Friday, November 29, 2024, through January 31, 2025, new members can join the Y with no joiner’s fee and enjoy their first month free.

This special offer is available both online at ymcaofcoastalga.org and in person at any of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia’s locations, which serve communities at 11 branches from Brunswick to Savannah, up to Statesboro.

“At the Y, good habits become enjoyable routines, workout friends become lifelong friends, and communities grow healthier and stronger,” said Mary Arocha, Senior Vice President of Healthy Living at the YMCA of Coastal Georgia. “This campaign is an opportunity for us to welcome more people into the Y family and help them discover how fitness, fun, and friendship can come together for a better us.”

As part of their membership, members gain access to a range of state-of-the-art fitness tools, including the exclusive EGYM smart-fitness system. Available now at seven branches, and launching at the Tybee Island YMCA in mid-December, EGYM provides an intuitive and personalized workout experience. Members can set and track fitness goals, receive tailored workout plans, and enjoy a streamlined, tech-enhanced approach to strength training and overall wellness.

The YMCA of Coastal Georgia offers something for everyone—from group exercise classes and family activities to youth programs and wellness initiatives. Every membership empowers not only the individual but also the broader community. Membership fees help fund vital programs that address food insecurity, provide childcare, and create opportunities for all to thrive.

“Joining the Y is more than starting a fitness journey,” said Arocha. “It’s about joining a movement that strengthens our community and makes life better for everyone.”

Don’t wait to take advantage of this limited-time opportunity to build healthy habits, make connections, and support your community. Visit ymcaofcoastalga.org or stop by your nearest branch to learn more and join today.

For over 165 years, the YMCA of Coastal Georgia has been a cornerstone of healthy living, youth development, and community building. With branches stretching across the coastal region, the Y is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can reach their full potential.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the tragic passing of one of our YMCA family members, Rev. Charles Houston, Jr., in the ferry dock collapse on Sapelo Island on October 19, 2024. Rev. Houston, 77, was not only a beloved member of the YMCA, but a hero in our broader community who dedicated his life to service and compassion.

For decades, Charles exemplified what it means to live in service to others. As a chaplain for the Georgia Department of Public Safety and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, he offered spiritual support and unwavering guidance to law enforcement officers across the state. He was there for families during their most difficult moments, lending comfort and solace after the loss of loved ones, during natural disasters, and in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Here in coastal Georgia, Charles was a constant source of strength and love. He showed up after hurricanes to support families in need, led prayer services during times of mourning, and never hesitated to offer a listening ear or helping hand. His work extended far beyond his role as a chaplain. He founded Caring Connection Chaplaincy, a nonprofit focused on providing spiritual care to law enforcement, and he was deeply involved in his church, Brunswick First United Methodist, where his presence will be profoundly missed.

Those who knew him, like Shawnda Jackson, our Welcome Center Lead at the McIntosh Branch, recall him as one of the kindest, most compassionate people they had the privilege to know. Charles never sought recognition for his countless acts of service—he simply showed up, time and again, ready to support those in need, offering a warm smile, a comforting prayer, or a moment of peace amid chaos.

We are deeply saddened by this loss, but we are forever grateful for the incredible impact Charles made in our community and in the lives of so many. His legacy of love, service, and compassion will live on in the hearts of all who were touched by his kindness.

Our thoughts and prayers are with his loving wife, Elizabeth, their two children, and the entire Houston family. Charles was a true light in this world, and he will be dearly missed by all of us at the YMCA of Coastal Georgia.

The YMCA of Coastal Georgia is excited to welcome Will Gunther as the new Executive Director of the Golden Isles and McIntosh YMCAs. A leader with deep personal faith, strong family ties, and a passion for service, Will brings a wealth of experience and a transformational vision to his new role.

Originally from Tampa, Florida, Will’s athletic journey took him across the country as he competed in collegiate football at several universities. But it was his early experiences as a YMCA camp counselor that planted the seeds for his career.