ADAMS COUNTY, Pa. — It was announced on Monday that YWCA Gettysburg and Adams County will merge with the Hanover Area YMCA upon Orphans Court approval.
YWCA Gettysburg and Adams County facilities will continue operations under the Hanover Area YMCA association with no service interruptions to members and participants.
According to officials, changes in leadership, rising costs and the pandemic have impacted the YWCA. Since early 2024, the volunteer leadership of the YWCA has worked to find a strategic partner to ensure the continuation of vital services, including childcare, advocacy, aquatics and fitness for the Gettysburg community.
After eight months of discussions, the leadership teams and boards of both organizations agreed that a merger was the best path forward.
As a result, the YWCA Gettysburg and Adams County will dissolve. The 909 Fairfield Road fitness and aquatics facility and the Adams Commerce Center childcare building will continue operations under the Hanover Area YMCA Association.
“This was not an easy decision, nor was it taken lightly; the Board of Directors and leadership recognized the importance of placing the long-term sustainability of the organization and its mission ahead of any personal attachments we may have had,” said Julie Haller, vice president of the YWCA board of directors. “This path forward ensures that our community will continue to benefit from the essential services we have provided for decades.”
The YWCA and the YMCA share common goals and values, making the partnership a great fit. Both organizations are dedicated to youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
“The Hanover Area YMCA shares our core values and offers a clear, aligned strategy for growth, we are confident that this opportunity positions us to serve the Gettysburg area even more effectively,” said Haller.
Cam’ela Bisch, CEO of the Hanover Area YMCA, emphasized the importance of preserving the legacy of the YWCA while looking toward the future. “The Hanover Area YMCA is honored to continue the community outreach that the YWCA has upheld for 95 years. With the community’s support, we will build on that legacy and lead it into a new chapter of growth and opportunity.”
