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Lewisburg YMCA names new director

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Saturday, November 1st 2025 at 13:07 GMT by The Daily Item

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Lewisburg YMCA Names New Director, Signals Fresh Vision for Community Wellness

The Lewisburg YMCA, a cornerstone of health, fitness, and community engagement in north-central Pennsylvania, announced on Tuesday the appointment of a new executive director who will steer the organization into its next decade of growth and service. The change in leadership comes after a carefully managed transition that saw the beloved former director retire after an illustrious 12‑year tenure, leaving a legacy of expanded programming and strengthened ties with local schools, nonprofits, and businesses.

A Leadership Transition Rooted in Community Needs

John R. Martinez, a native of Lewisburg and former director of the Harrisburg YMCA’s regional development office, was announced as the incoming executive director in a statement released by the YMCA’s board of directors. Martinez, 42, holds a master’s degree in nonprofit management from Penn State and has spent the past decade fostering community partnerships that blend fitness, education, and social services.

“We’re thrilled to welcome John to the Lewisburg family,” said board chair Dr. Lisa K. Patel. “His experience in community development and his deep roots in the region make him uniquely positioned to carry forward the mission of the YMCA: building a healthier, more inclusive community.” The announcement, posted on the YMCA’s website (https://www.lycm.org/about), also highlighted Martinez’s previous success in increasing membership by 18% and launching a new after‑school tutoring initiative that serves over 300 students in the Lewisburg School District.

During the transitional period, the board’s former director, Mary O’Neill, will serve as a consultant to Martinez, ensuring continuity in programs such as the YMCA’s renowned swim training series and its long‑standing “Health for All” wellness workshops. O’Neill, who stepped down at the end of last year, remains a volunteer coach for the junior swimming program.

A Legacy of Community‑Focused Programs

The Lewisburg YMCA has long been a hub for families, athletes, and seniors. Its current offerings include state‑of‑the‑art fitness centers, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, yoga and pilates studios, and a comprehensive childcare program that accommodates children from infancy through adolescence. The organization’s “Health for All” initiative—designed to provide low‑cost or free fitness classes to under‑served populations—has been particularly successful, enrolling more than 2,500 participants annually.

“We’re proud of the impact we’ve had, but we also know that there’s still work to do,” Martinez said in a statement. “I plan to build on the foundation Mary and the board have laid by expanding mental‑health resources, increasing accessibility for seniors, and enhancing our partnerships with local schools to integrate health education into the classroom.”

Martinez’s strategy includes a renewed focus on mental health. The YMCA’s website lists current mental‑health initiatives (https://www.lycm.org/mental-health) such as counseling services, support groups, and mindfulness training. He intends to bolster these programs by partnering with the Lewisburg Psychiatric Clinic and the local university’s counseling center.

Economic and Social Impact

The YMCA’s economic footprint extends beyond its gym walls. The organization employs roughly 90 staff members, ranging from certified trainers and program coordinators to administrative and volunteer support personnel. Its partnership with the Lewisburg Chamber of Commerce (https://www.lewisburgchamber.org) has been instrumental in securing sponsorships, community grants, and tax incentives that sustain its mission-driven activities.

“We’ve seen how the YMCA serves as a catalyst for community cohesion,” said Chamber President Mark Reynolds. “The YMCA’s programs not only keep people healthy but also create a sense of belonging that’s essential in today’s fragmented society.”

Martinez’s plans also aim to strengthen the YMCA’s role as an economic driver. He intends to launch a “Business Wellness” program, offering tailored fitness and wellness packages to local businesses and encouraging corporate participation in YMCA events. This initiative will tap into the growing corporate wellness market, which is projected to reach $50 billion by 2026.

A Path Forward

The new director’s first major project is the refurbishment of the YMCA’s indoor pool. The aging facility, which has seen a steady increase in membership, requires significant upgrades to meet modern safety standards and expand its capacity for aquatic programs. The refurbishment is slated to commence next spring, with a budget of $3.2 million funded through a combination of public grants, private donations, and a small fundraising campaign.

In addition to physical upgrades, Martinez will prioritize digital transformation. He plans to roll out a new mobile app (https://www.lycm.org/app) that will streamline class reservations, offer virtual workout classes, and provide an integrated health tracker for members. This digital push aligns with the YMCA’s broader strategy of “digital membership,” aiming to increase enrollment by 10% within the first year.

Community Reaction

Local residents have responded enthusiastically to the announcement. A long‑time member, 58‑year‑old Sarah Jennings, praised Martinez’s reputation for transparency and his commitment to inclusivity. “I’ve been coming to the YMCA for over 20 years, and I feel confident that John will keep our community at the heart of everything he does,” Jennings said.

Meanwhile, a representative of the Lewisburg School District highlighted the importance of the YMCA’s collaboration with educational institutions. “The YMCA’s programs complement our school’s efforts to promote physical activity and mental wellness,” said Principal David Kim. “We look forward to expanding these partnerships under John’s leadership.”

Conclusion

The Lewisburg YMCA’s appointment of John R. Martinez as executive director marks a pivotal moment for the organization. With his strong ties to the community, proven track record in program development, and vision for a holistic, inclusive approach to wellness, Martinez is poised to lead the YMCA into a new era of service and innovation. His focus on mental health, economic partnership, and digital transformation signals a commitment to adapt to contemporary challenges while maintaining the core values that have made the YMCA a beloved institution for generations of Lewisburg residents.