In this video tour, learn all about the services and programs at the Good Shepherd YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Rock River Valley.
The facility is 24,000 square-feet and includes a fitness center, exercise studio and a multi-purpose gymnasium. A youth program center also includes an art studio, tech room, lounge area, cafeteria and game space.
Facility Highlights
- The Good Shepherd YMCA opened in November 2024 following nine months of construction. Formerly the Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, the new branch of the YMCA of Rock River Valley is located at 1829 North Rockton Avenue in Rockford, Illinois, directly across the street from West Middle School.
- The $3.7 million project would not have been possible without the support of lead donors Rick and Lana Engen, and numerous partners including former U.S. representative Cheri Bustos, U.S. senator Dick Durbin, state senator Steve Stadelman, state representative Maurice West, mayor Tom McNamara and the Rockford City Council, the Winnebago County Mental Health Board, and numerous donors who are listed on the donor wall inside the Good Shepherd YMCA.
- The cardio and strength center was formerly a cafeteria space when the building was a church. Now it’s full of Matrix Fitness equipment.
- Formerly the church’s sanctuary space, the gymnasium has multiple basketball goals. It’s also used for a multitude of sports and fitness classes.
- The kitchen is large enough for cooking classes for teens. Also, meals at the YMCA are being expanded for populations in the community who may be food insecure.
- The basement of the facility acts as the youth center. It features a gaming area, cafeteria tables, tech studio, teen lounge and more.
- The technology studio will soon be outfitted with computers, tablets and 3D printers. It allow youth an avenue to complete homework and participate in enrichment activities.
- For the future, the YMCA hopes this will be one of the most accessible locations in the Rockford community.
