YMCA of Belvidere

General information

The Y's Mission: To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

Our Cause: At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn and grow.

Who We Are: The Y is Belvidere/Boone County's leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

Youth Development - Nurturing the potential of every child and teen.

Youth are taking a greater interest in learning; making smarter life choices; and cultivating the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, the pursuit of higher education and goal achievement.

Healthy Living - Improving the health and well-being.

Adults and youth receive the support, guidance and resources needed to achieve better health and well-being.

Social Responsibility - Giving back and providing support to our neighbors.

The Y helps people give back and assist their neighbors by offering them opportunities to volunteer, advocate and support programs that strengthen community.

The Y's Impact:

People of all ages, incomes, backgrounds and abilities come to the Y to learn, grow and thrive. No one is ever denied a membership based on their inability to pay.

Over 1000 volunteers - kids, parents, individuals, and business and community leaders -are personally vested in strengthening their communities.

10 full time staff and nearly 100 part time staff
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In 1902, a group of interested businessmen formed the first YMCA in Belvidere and Boone County. This building and site were donated by Mr. & Mrs. A.W. Avery and turned over to the YMCA board of directors, under its first president, Mr. A.W. Fassett. Mr. John "Heinie" Harkless served as general secretary from 1915 until 1955.

The original building, at the corner of Locust and State streets, included swimming and gymnasium facilities - extensive features for a community this size.

In 1966, a strong organization of community citizens banded together and raised more than $700,000 for a new building. In February 1968, a modern new facility, including a swimming pool, gymnasium, locker and shower rooms, weight room, meeting rooms, game and club rooms, craft room, teen center and administration offices, was dedicated.

Renovations to the facility were completed in 1999. The $1.3 million project included new mechanical systems, cosmetic updating, space reallocations and the expansion of the fitness center.

The Belvidere Family YMCA has adapted to meet the changing needs of Boone County for many years. All ages, races, abilities and income levels are served. No membership is ever denied because of inability to pay