Blair County’s two YMCAs have joined forces to better meet the needs of the community.

Effective June 1, the Blair Regional and Garver Memorial YMCAs are partnering to “build a better region,” said Sharon Jones, executive director of the Blair Regional YMCA.

Under the new partnership, Jones will also serve as executive director for Garver, while both YMCAs will retain their own board of directors.

In addition, the leadership team at Blair Regional will be available to assist Garver YMCA with its needs, Jones said.

The partnership is designed to strengthen and expand the YMCAs’ programs and services for the Morrisons Cove community, a press release stated. By combining their resources, expertise and energy, they hope to “create a more sustainable future for the Garver YMCA and enhance the overall member experience.”

Holly Keller, a Garver board member, said the Roaring Spring-based Y has seen a change in programming since the COVID-19 pandemic.

While it has served Morrisons Cove for decades, maintaining operations and meeting growing community needs has become increasingly challenging for the smaller YMCA.

“It’s always been a challenge because the Cove is a small area,” Keller said. “We’ve been exploring options to make it even more sustainable.”

By partnering with the Blair Regional YMCA, “we will not only secure the future of the Garver YMCA but will also create new opportunities for expanded programs, improved services and greater impact right here in our community,” she said.

Keller described the partnership as a “big advantage” as members of one YMCA will be able to take part in the other’s programs. For instance, Blair Regional has a pool and swimming programs, while Garver has strong gymnastics and basketball programs, Keller said.

“We see this partnership as a win-win for everyone,” Jones said, noting the two entities will also be able to reach more people.

Discussions regarding the partnership began in January, Jones said, with representatives from both boards of directors and staff meeting over the previous months “to work through an agreement to allow us to offer support” to Garver Memorial.

“We’ve been meeting with staff and families, like gymnastics families, so we’re not blindsiding anyone,” Keller said.

Garver YMCA will maintain its deep local roots and all current programs and services will continue without interruption. Over time, though, Garver members will see future program enhancements, expanded offerings and facility improvements.

A public open house and more information will be shared in the coming weeks as details of the partnership are finalized.

When asked about the difference in membership fees between the two YMCAs, Jones said that would be a talking point down the line.

Both YMCA locations are committed to transparency and to working with members, staff and the community throughout the transition, leaders said in a news release.

“We’re looking forward to this partnership and to great things on the horizon for both Ys,” Jones said.