Barbara B. Jordan YMCA Inc.

Founded in 1961, the Morgan County YMCA grew out of the interest of the Jaycees and a group of local businessmen.  This initiative followed an Indiana University research study that determined that there was a strong need for social and recreational opportunities, especially for area teens. 

William Schwab donated the first Y building, a former grocery store, which was moved to the top of Cunningham Hill in Martinsville.  In 1968 the Board of Directors embarked on a $450,000 fund drive to construct a new building at its present 5 ½ acre site on East Morgan Street.  The building was dedicated as the YMCA for Morgan County in 1970.  In 1974 the building was renamed in honor of Barbara Byram Jordan, a former volunteer instructor whose family was influential in establishing the Y.

By 1979 the need for expansion was evident.  The Board again launched a fund drive to add a fitness center, racquetball courts, and an indoor running track.  In 1982 the Kendall Fitness center was dedicated in honor of Mr. & Mrs. Wilbur Kendall.  A renovation in 2010 eliminated the racquetball courts and added a separate free weight area and an aerobics studio for group fitness classes.

From the initial programming for teens, the Y has expanded to offer a wide range of healthy program options for all ages.  Included are Aquatics, Day Camping, Fitness, Preschool, School Age Child Care, Youth & Adult Sports, Senior Programs, and (of course) Teen Programs.