Downtown Youngstown YMCA celebrates 125 years

By KATIE SEMINARA

YOUNGSTOWN — The Rev. Art Joachim still remembers the scent of the soap called Lifebuoy used by the YMCA in the 1930s.

“Back in the ‘30s when I first started coming here [Y] it was just men and boys. And we just swam in our birthday suits,” he said, laughing.

Birthday suits are no longer acceptable in the YMCA’s two Olympic-sized pools.

But the Youngstown Central Branch of the Y is celebrating its 125th birthday this year.

Over time, the Y has undergone renovations, had visits from presidents and famous coaches, but one thing remains constant — service.

The YMCA has always been dedicated to serving the mind, body and spirit of community residents and Y members.

“Things have changed, but we always follow our mission,” said Kenneth Rudge, YMCA chief executive officer.

“We certainly are a melting pot for the community. That’s what makes us special. Everyone rubs elbows with everyone,” he said.

The Rev. Mr. Joachim of Austintown Township is part of that melting pot and has been attending the Youngstown YMCA for many years.

Even at age 83 he continues to use the facilities for long-distance race training and to stay healthy.

When Mr. Joachim was a student at South High in Youngstown, boys would make the extra effort to go the programs offered by the Y, he said.

Read the full story Monday in The Vindicator and on Vindy.com.