YMCA and Venues Parks & Arts form new partnership at O’Brien Center
SOUTH BEND, Ind. – Venues Parks & Arts and the YMCA of Greater Michiana are entering into a new partnership at the O’Brien Fitness Center on Walter Street in South Bend starting on July 6, 2020. This O’Brien / YMCA Partnership will allow the Y, which recently announced the closing of its building in South Bend, to offer its services at another location in the community. The partnership will also expand the offerings of both the O’Brien Fitness Center and the YMCA.
The O’Brien / YMCA Partnership aims to continue the mission of both the YMCA and Venues Parks & Arts by providing the community with an inclusive and welcoming environment that encourages wellness through learning, movement, healthy lifestyle, and connection. In addition to fitness center access, O’Brien / YMCA Partnership members will have access to complimentary childcare watch, unlimited group fitness classes, exclusive Les Mills fitness programs, access to most YMCAs nationwide, and discounts at VPA programs and amenities including golf, basketball leagues, camps, and more.
“When we began looking for an opportunity to continue serving the South Bend area, the O’Brien Center became an obvious solution. Their current expansion and renovation provide a great opportunity for our members to have a home at another building in the community,” said YMCA of Greater Michiana CEO Mark Weber.
Both members of the Y and members of the O’Brien Fitness Center will be given full access to the amenities at the O’Brien Center. A new, all-inclusive membership rate structure for the O’Brien / YMCA Partnership will be released in the fall of 2020 which will include rates for young adults, individuals, seniors, couples, and military. The new membership will also continue to accept Silver Sneakers, United Health Programs, City of South Bend, St. Joseph County, and South Bend School Corporation. The new partnership is designed to be financially sustainable while remaining accessible to all members of our community through scholarship opportunities for memberships and programs. In line with the Y’s current financial assistance program, no child or family will be denied access to programs due to inability to pay.
“Because one of VPA’s greatest resources is space, providing that space for our community partners who align with our mission is always a goal worth pursuing. This partnership with the YMCA allows us to maximize our resources at the O’Brien Fitness Center and further our impact in the community,” said Venues Parks & Arts Executive Director Aaron Perri.
The O’Brien Fitness Center is currently undergoing renovations to expand the fitness and programming space throughout the building and upgrade several amenities including locker rooms and restrooms. The building will remain fully open while renovations take place until completion later in 2020.
To learn more about joining the new O’Brien / YMCA Partnership including how to sign up for membership visit ymcagm.org.
