YMCA — can’t build without money

Greencastle is still on the bucket list for the Waynesboro YMCA, but nothing concrete is in the works for establishing a facility in town.

According to a needs assessment conducted several years ago, there is a great interest by residents for a YMCA in Greencastle. However, there is a major obstacle.

“Unfortunately, it is a great expense to build and operate,” said Alan Smith, Waynesboro Y executive director. “And there’s no funding.”

His board of directors includes two Greencastle men, Garon Gembe and Greg Hoover, who also serve with six other people on a Greencastle steering committee.

Waynesboro offers programs year round in the community, limited by a place to host the activities. Smith said the school campus was at capacity with its own programs but he was fortunate to have found First Assembly of God across the street from the elementary school.

The church hosts the new Before/After School CARE for K-5 children. It will also be the site for open gym for volleyball and basketball, geared for teens and adults, slated to start in late February.

The Y used to hold a half-day summer program at Jerome R. King Playground, but since participation dwindled, Smith said it would be incorporated into a new daycamp at the church.

“The Assembly of God has been so gracious,” he said.

The board of directors was open to any ideas for property or funding for a YMCA in Greencastle, Smith continued. The construction part alone could run $7 to $10 million. If everything fell into place, the board would move on establishing the center.

“We’re still active, but it’s kind of behind the scenes,” he said.