The YMCA of Central New York recently welcomed a new president and CEO but, he is no stranger to the organization. Josh Royce previously served as the chief operating officer and worked his way up the ladder after first serving the “Y” through internships in college. Royce’s promotion comes at a time when memberships to the healthy lifestyle organization are still on the rebound, following pandemic losses.
“Pre-pandemic we were serving about 60,000 members, we’re back about 47,000 members. So, the goal is really to continue to kinda reach out to the community and continue to engage those folks and get back to those numbers that we were serving previously.”
Royce says the pandemic also taught us lessons about the need to upgrade air filtration systems to protect everyone from airborne illnesses during the winter months. He explains being a member of the “Y” is different than just a standard gym membership and begins with team members getting acquainted on that first visit.
“They’ll walk them through a conversation of what brought them into our 'Y' today and learn from them of what their needs are and our team will kind of guide them through that path of what we may have that will meet those needs and walk them through how to get enrolled or signed-up or registered for a program or begin that activity.”
Royce says the YMCA is also focused on supporting youth from academics to enrichment programs for college exploration and career development. He says their many locations is also a place for seniors to get together with friends to socialize, walk the track or enjoy pickleball. Their holiday hours are posted here.