Advertisement

Saskatoon YMCA marks 50 years at downtown location

The Saskatoon YMCA expressed its commitment to being downtown in light of recent downtown arena locations. Devon Latchuk / Global News

The YMCA in downtown Saskatoon is marking a major milestone.

The location on 22nd Street opened its doors 50 years ago – Sept. 6, 1969.

The organization itself goes back more than a century in Saskatoon. The previous building on Spadina Crescent was knocked down in the 1970s.

“We’ve gone through so many changes,” Saskatoon YMCA CEO Dean Dodge said on Friday.

“For a lot of people the YMCA 50 years ago was a young men’s Christian association – now we’re the Y, so people of all kinds come.”

Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.

Get daily National news

Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Dodge said it’s great to see how the YMCA has adapted over the years to meet community needs.

Story continues below advertisement

“Every Y you go to around the world is slightly different,” he said.  “We are such a family-centred group – we focus on childcare, overall wellness.”

Dodge grew up with the YMCA – starting in 1976 as a camper then taking swimming lessons.

“My own family has been involved in the Y,” he explained. “From my grandma to my mom and dad.”

WATCH (June 20, 2019): Bricker’s Shoes in Saskatoon celebrates 80 years

Click to play video: 'Bricker’s Shoes in Saskatoon celebrates 80 years'
Bricker’s Shoes in Saskatoon celebrates 80 years

He’s been at the helm of the Saskatoon YMCA for the past six years.

“It’s truly family for me,” he said.

Around the world the YMCA serves millions of people in more than 100 countries.

Advertisement

Sponsored content

AdChoices