In this Expert Q&A, Nate Smith, the VP of operations at the YMCA of Greenwich, explains how the Y went from facing potential closure before COVID-19 — burdened by heavy debt, an aging 110-year-old facility and declining revenue — to becoming a thriving, debt-free organization on track to more than double its budget from $5 million to $11 million by 2026.
Critical lifelines included federal COVID-19 funding, a $1 million capital campaign for facility improvements, and strategic guidance from Y leaders and Y-USA’s Thriving Y team. By refocusing on community needs, expanding partnerships and more, the U significantly increased fundraising and scholarship support, now providing about $800,000 annually to the community.
Enjoy!
Key Takeaways
- Pre-COVID-19 Crisis. The Greenwich YMCA was burdened by high debt from a past capital campaign and a 110-year-old facility with significant deferred maintenance, putting major strain on operations and revenue. COVID-19 intensified these pressures and brought the organization close to closure.
- Key Turning Points. Securing federal COVID-19 relief funding and launching a $1 million capital campaign for facility improvements created financial breathing room. External assessments from other Y leaders and Y-USA’s Thriving Y team helped clarify the Y’s true position and path forward.
- Strategic Reorientation. The Y doubled down on its mission and community role — expanding partnerships with nonprofits and the school district, relaunching childcare and youth development, and growing offerings like an Early Learning Center and adaptive aquatics alongside its already strong competitive aquatics programs.
- Remarkable Growth. The Y has grown from roughly a $5 million operation at the start of COVID-19 to a projected $11 million budget for 2026, while increasing annual community assistance from about $200,000 pre-COVID-19 to around $800,000 today.
- Debt-Free and Future-Focused. Becoming debt-free for the first time in 20 years has improved donor confidence and opened new opportunities. Smith’s advice to other Ys: return to your core mission, create a clear financial and capital roadmap, engage outside partners, and hire people willing to lean into hard work and turnaround realities.
