Innovative model for community development comes to life.
Improving the health and well-being of communities is a primary focus for the non-profit organization, YMCA.
South Meridian Family YMCA
In a combined partnership with five different organizations, "The Hill", a 22-acre campus in Meridian, Idaho is now home to new YMCA and St. Luke's clinic locations. Together with the community, West Ada School District and Meridian Parks & Rec, they have opened a model facility for health and wellness.
Working closely with the community, the Treasure Valley Family YMCA fundraised the $18.5 million needed to open the 60,000-square-foot facility, debt free, with funding from businesses, foundations and individuals, on 22 acres of donated land.
The facility includes gyms, pickleball and basketball courts, fitness areas, group exercise studios, youth development centers, family locker rooms, gathering space, and a four-level, all-ages play structure called the Adventure Zone. Youth development areas host art classes and times for free play for kids.
Treasure Valley Family YMCA President and CEO, David Duro says,"Working with Hummel Architects, the team at Henriksen/Butler researched our Y brand standards for colors and asked for the floor plans of the building early in the process to make sure that their suggestions would meet the needs of the members and building. They understood that the furniture's durability was key and did research to make sure that what they were suggesting would hold up to the wear of an active branch - that it is bright, welcoming and playful is an added bonus."
Talk to anyone in the facility and discover their passion around physical, mental, emotional and social wellness. For many community members, this is a home away from home, a safe place where everyone is welcome.
St. Luke's at The Hill
A major partner in the development of this collaborative project was St. Luke’s Medical Center, an 8,000-square-foot center within the YMCA focusing on Lifestyle Medicine. The goal to provide preventative care and treat the root causes of health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and obesity.
The center includes classroom space, teaching kitchen focused on plant-based diets, consultation room and a transitional gym. Separate from other workout equipment, the transitional gym is for individuals who otherwise might be intimidated by a normal gym setting.
The second floor of the facility houses a clinic with physician psychologists, nurses, social workers, dietitians and physical therapists. Their is also a pediatric clinic on the first floor.
This is a tight partnership, where clinicians and healthcare workers can provide a warm handoff to trainers and fitness experts. For seniors, youth, families, and any individual seeking improved wellness, this innovative partnership is truly a game changer.
