Resiliency in Action: Building a Stronger Ashland Together

By: Molly Riley, Executive Director, YMCA of Ashland Ohio

In every corner of Ashland County, stories of resilience are unfolding — families finding hope through challenge, children discovering their potential, and seniors building community through connection. At the heart of these stories are two organizations that have stood steadfast through change and challenge: The YMCA of Ashland, Ohio and the United Way of Ashland County.

Together, these agencies embody what it means to serve, strengthen, and sustain a community that believes in lifting one another up. Through shared purpose and partnership, they help our neighbors thrive — body, mind, and spirit.

A Partnership Rooted in Community

The YMCA’s mission has always been clear: to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Guided by the core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility, the YMCA of Ashland, Ohio is more than a place, it’s a movement.

The United Way of Ashland County shares that same heartbeat. Through community-driven initiatives, they unite people and resources to create lasting impact, ensuring that every child, adult, and family has the opportunity to succeed. Together, the YMCA and United Way are investing in what matters most: people.

Supporting Every Stage of Life

• Youth Athletics & Preschool:

Resilience begins in our youngest citizens. Through early childhood education and youth sports, children learn teamwork, confidence, and compassion. These programs, supported by community partners and United Way funding, ensure that every child has the chance to play, learn, and grow  regardless of family circumstances.

• Before and After School Care:

Working parents can take comfort knowing their children are in safe, nurturing hands each day. These programs provide academic support, social development, and healthy activities that build the foundation for lifelong success.

• Silver Sneakers for Seniors:

At the YMCA, age is never a barrier to wellness. Through programs like Silver Sneakers, older adults find connection, mobility, and renewed purpose.  We want the Seniors in our community to know how much we value them.

• Scholarship Programs:

Financial hardship should never stand in the way of health or belonging. Thanks to the generosity of donors and partners like the United Way, the YMCA’s scholarship program ensures that families in need can access memberships, childcare, and youth programs regardless of income.

• Inclusive Partnerships with Dale Roy and Others:

Collaboration with organizations serving individuals with disabilities and learning differences creates a culture of belonging. These partnerships celebrate every person’s unique abilities and ensure everyone has a place to participate and shine.

• Free Community Swim Lessons:

The Ashland YMCA’s swim lesson program is more than just recreation—it’s a vital water safety initiative. The gift of safety is one that lasts a lifetime. Free swim lessons for children across our community not only teach essential water safety skills but also build confidence, one splash at a time. Every child deserves to know how to swim, so they can stay safe and calm if the unexpected happens in or around the water.

Strengthening Families and Faith

In a world that often feels divided, the YMCA remains grounded in its Christian foundation,  a place where families come together to grow stronger in faith, health, and community. Through shared programming, family events, and outreach efforts, the YMCA and United Way remind us that resilience is built through relationships, and hope grows when we serve side by side.

Together, We Rise

The partnership between the YMCA of Ashland, Ohio and United Way of Ashland County is a living example of what can happen when two mission-driven organizations come together with a shared heart for service.

When we support one another, we build a community that doesn’t just survive, it thrives.

Join Us.

Be part of the movement to strengthen Ashland County, one family, one child, one heart at a time.
Visit ashlandy.org  learn more or get involved.