RCY Unveils Nazareth Branch Renovation

NAZARETH - River Crossing YMCA has launched Restoring the Past, Inspiring the Future, a campaign to renovate its branch and expand community impact services in Nazareth. With plans to put shovels in the ground in early 2026, the renovated branch will better address community needs and create a modern hub in the heart of downtown Nazareth.

Having already raised close to $7.5 million, the Y is appealing to the Nazareth community to help reach a fundraising goal of $9 million to begin the project. The renovated Nazareth branch of River Crossing YMCA will provide new space and opportunity for all families and generations to come together for health, mind-body wellness, socialization and much-needed child care. The facility will feature a modern design, with three floors geared to attract members looking for more than just a place to work out.

“When we looked closely at our Nazareth branch and spoke with community members about how their Y could enrich their lives, it was easy to see the possibilities this renovation would support,” said Zane Moore, president/CEO of River Crossing YMCA. “We are building a community hub that honors the history and traditions of the Nazareth community, a place for everyone to be seen.”

The upcoming branch renovation includes 

• Modernized architecture that celebrates the Y’s historic legacy in Nazareth, which goes back over 100 years
• NEW expanded wellness center and program spaces featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment
• NEW dedicated community room to share with partner organizations for meetings and events
• NEW child care classrooms, school age child care, and brand new Stay & Play (activities and supervision for children while adult members use the facility)
• Newly refurbished gymnasium and refreshed aquatics center
• Three new studios, as well as intentionally designed quiet spaces to support mental wellness, meditation and mindfulness
• Community gathering areas and cafe to relax, connect, and collaborate
   

“The pandemic showed us what really matters: family, health, education and real human connections,” said Blaine Phillips, leadership community donor and 1978 graduate of Nazareth Area High School. “The Y is more important than ever, providing the spaces and support that help our neighbors connect and thrive.”

The renovated branch will include a secure wing to operate high-quality, licensed early childhood education and care for 48 children. The space will also be licensed for 20 additional school age children for before and after school care, making it easier for YMCA child care families to take advantage of YMCA membership and branch amenities during the school week.

A new elevator and stairwell, along with barrier-free environments for people with varied abilities and needs, will improve the Y’s accessibility for the whole community. With the additional space for classes and programs, the Y will be able to expand its free, donor-supported community Pathway programs, which provide professionally led six-to-12 week health and wellness classes to groups of individuals who share a common life experience, such as military Veterans, cancer survivors, and those at risk of developing chronic disease. Last year, River Crossing YMCA served over 2,000 participants in community Pathway programs, including those that have already expanded to the Lehigh Valley.

“I’ve been affiliated with the YMCA since I moved to Nazareth in 1970, in eighth grade,” shared Bill Sandbrook, campaign co-chair and 1975 graduate of Nazareth Area High School. “It was very impactful on me and the rest of my life, and that’s why I support this project.”

Those interested in learning more about the project and how they can become part of this exciting historic campaign can visit the Nazareth Campaign webpage. 

Nazareth Campaign webpage

 WFMZ Newscast and Article