The Richardson Family YMCA

A Hub for Health, Connection and Purpose

By Samantha Buehler and Jennifer Federici

Since its establishment in 1961, the Richardson Family YMCA has been more than just a fitness center; it’s been a cornerstone of health, wellness and community spirit. Nestled near the intersection of Custer and Arapaho Roads, the Y has grown into a multi-generational gathering place where fitness meets fellowship and wellness intertwines with purpose.

When many locals think of the Richardson Family YMCA, they immediately picture the nearly 10,000 children who find joy and growth through its soccer leagues, swim lessons, summer camps and Adventure Guides. For countless Richardson families, the Y has been a foundational experience, with parents and grandparents bringing their own children back to share the same treasured memories they once created.

Building Wellness and Community
What truly sets the Richardson Family YMCA apart from other fitness centers is its sense of purpose and belonging. It’s not just a place to exercise; it’s a place where relationships are built, memories are made, and lives are transformed.

The Y offers more than 35 group exercise classes weekly, covering a wide array of interests and fitness levels. From yoga and spin to high-energy Les Mills classes, these sessions not only keep members fit but foster camaraderie that extends far beyond the gym. In fact, the sense of community cultivated in these classes has inspired members to host potlucks, support their instructors’ theater performances, and even pursue fitness careers themselves.

Longtime members and instructors are a testament to the Richardson Y’s unique charm. Take Aleda Keel, who has been leading popular classes for more than two decades, or Michele and Jim Stamm, who have been a part of the Y staff team for a combined 60 years and have had both their kids and grandkids go through YMCA programming. Seniors have even created their own quarterly lunch-and-learn events, proving that wellness at the Y is as much about social connection as it is about physical fitness.

YMCA Member Teri Riha began her journey with the Richardson Family YMCA more than 10 years ago. While rehabilitation after a knee injury brought her to the Y, it was the people she met in group exercise classes that have kept her engaged. Realizing the increased benefit of exercise and a sense of community as she ages, Teri continues to enjoy Pilates, barre, the senior classes taught by Carol O’Farrell, and making new friends. When asked what one word or phrase comes to mind when she thinks of the YMCA, she replies, “Community.”

Another local couple who loves the Richardson Y are Brent and Jamie Buemi, who have been coming here for many years, as have their growing family. They can get a workout in while their children enjoy the Child Watch area. Jaime says, “We love the YMCA so much! It has become Community and fellowship with neighbors, a sweet time for our kids, and has great equipment for workouts. We are grateful to be members!” Brent also added, “What makes the Richardson Y unique is its hospitable and welcoming environment and its friendly staff which keeps us coming back.”

A Community Partner
The Richardson Y thrives on its deep ties to the community. An 18-person volunteer board of local business and community leaders drives fundraising, community events, and other initiatives that ensure the Y remains a vital resource for Richardson residents.

Board member Ryan Kamp has always sought out YMCAs in his communities and the Kamps have been members for several years, visiting the Y regularly and enrolling their kids in the Y’s youth programming alongside so many other Richardson residents. “The YMCA is more than a gym. Unlike other facilities, the Y is focused on the community: making a real impact, promoting a healthy lifestyle, and inspiring action. I’ve been lucky enough to be a part of the YMCA Richardson board for the past several years. Our goal is the spread the Y message, tell our Y stories, and do what we can to make our branch the best it can be,” states Ryan.

A Vision for the Future
The Y’s local board continues to look for new and various ways to serve and support the Richardson community. As the Richardson Family YMCA continues to grow and evolve, its mission remains steadfast: to foster health, wellness, and community for all. Through its unique blend of programs, outreach and partnerships, the Richardson Family YMCA exemplifies what it means to be a true beacon of health and community – a purpose, not just a place.

To learn more about the unique programs at the Richardson Y, visit http://richardsonymca.org.

Making an Impact Beyond the Gym
As a nonprofit organization, the Richardson Family YMCA is dedicated to serving the broader Richardson community. Its outreach efforts touch lives in meaningful ways, ensuring that financial need is never a barrier to participation. Every year, the Y raises funds that go directly back into the local community, supporting children and families who might not otherwise have access to its programs.

In 2025, the Richardson Family YMCA aims to raise $143,000 to continue providing scholarships for memberships and programs such as swim lessons and youth sports. These funds also support vital initiatives such as:

Go For Green
A drowning prevention program offering free swim lessons to non-swimming camp participants.

HEROES Partnership
Providing free gym and pool access to this local nonprofit during the year.

Summer Learning Academy
Helping RISD students combat summer learning loss through a targeted educational program that innovatively integrates academics with the fun of summer camp.

LIVESTRONG at the YMCA
A new program launching this year to assist cancer survivors with physical rehabilitation and social support as they journey through recovery.

Thanks to these efforts, no one is turned away from the Y due to financial need—a principle that underscores the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and community building.