St. Paul, MN – The YMCA of the North, a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, on Aug. 20 will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the YMCA Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing, a transformative new space designed to support children, strengthen families and expand access to high-quality early learning and care in St. Paul’s Midway neighborhood.
The first-of-its-kind center for the YMCA of the North reflects years of collaboration and investment from philanthropic partners, community leaders and supporters committed to improving outcomes for children and families. Each year, the center is expected to serve more than 2,000 children and 6,000 family members through early childhood education, school-age care, Head Start partnerships, workforce development and community-focused programming.
“This center represents a transformational investment in children, families and the future of our community. We’re deeply grateful to the Peter J. King Family Foundation, the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation and the many donors, partners and volunteers whose support made this shared vision a reality,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the North. “By bringing early learning, family resources, workforce development and community partnerships together under one roof, we’re creating a place where children can thrive, parents can find support and families have the opportunity to build brighter futures.”
“For more than two decades, our foundation has partnered with the YMCA of the North because we believe every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential,” said Russell S. King, chairman and president of the Peter J. King Family Foundation. “We’re proud to celebrate the opening of a lasting community asset that reflects our shared commitment to children and families. Together with the YMCA, we’re helping build stronger foundations and create brighter futures for generations to come.”
Located at 530 N. Wheeler Street, directly across from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Midway YMCA, the vibrant 29,000-square-foot facility serves as a multi-generational hub focused on supporting children, families, caregivers and aspiring childcare professionals. The center includes classrooms, family resource spaces, workforce development programming and a new outdoor playground designed to foster learning, wellbeing and community connection.
Guests are invited to remain following the ceremony for refreshments, self-guided tours of the new facility and a celebration of the center’s opening with YMCA team members, partners and community members.
WHO: YMCA of the North, Peter J. King Family Foundation, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, community partners and invited civic leaders
WHAT: Ribbon-cutting ceremony for the YMCA Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing
WHERE: YMCA Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing, 530 N. Wheeler St., St. Paul, MN 55104
WHEN: Thursday, Aug. 20, from 10:30 a.m. – noon
- Remarks by:
- Glen Gunderson, president and CEO, YMCA of the North
- Michelle Edgerton, executive vice president and chief advancement officer, YMCA of the North
- Patricia J. Lull, retired bishop, Saint Paul Area Synod
- Russell S. King, chairman and president, Peter J. King Family Foundation
- Eric Fotsch, Peter J. King Family Foundation board member, YMCA of the North General Board member
- Ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening of the new playground
- Light lunch and refreshments, self-guided building tours and community celebration
Following the ceremony, speakers and participants will be available for interviews.
About the YMCA of the North
The YMCA of the North is a leading nonprofit dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Established 170 years ago, the Y seeks to be the leader in experiences that foster wellbeing for people and communities. By nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving health and wellbeing, and supporting and serving our neighbors, the Y ensures that everyone has the opportunity to become healthier, more confident, connected and secure. To learn more about the Y’s mission and work, visit www.ymcanorth.org.