YMCA of the Inland Northwest Celebrates 140th Anniversary with City Proclamation

Honoring 140 Years of Service, Leadership, and Community Impact in Spokane

The YMCA of the Inland Northwest proudly celebrates 140 years of serving the Spokane community and surrounding areas. Local leaders, alongside Mayor Lisa Brown, joined the celebration at the Central YMCA on Monday, October 21st, where Mayor Brown presented a special City of Spokane Proclamation honoring the YMCA’s remarkable history and ongoing contributions.

Founded in Spokane in 1884, the YMCA has long been a beacon of support for youth, families, and individuals, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of the community. Today, the YMCA remains committed to empowering individuals, enhancing well-being, and strengthening communities, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Reflecting on the YMCA’s legacy, Alan Lesher, President and CEO of the YMCA of the Inland Northwest, shared, “It’s incredible to think about how many lives the Y has impacted over the past 140 years. Our ability to adapt, respond to shifting community needs, and always say ‘Yes’ to those who need us most is a true testament to our mission. We owe so much to the volunteers and supporters who believe in our cause which makes our work possible. I’m proud to be part of such a meaningful organization.”

The YMCA continues to serve people of all ages, offering a variety of programs such as early childhood education, youth sports, before-and-after school care, cancer survivor support, and wellness programs for seniors and those with chronic health conditions, to name but a few. The Central YMCA even houses the original cornerstone from Spokane’s first YMCA building, erected in 1906, serving as a lasting symbol of the Y’s enduring commitment to the community.