From the Director: It’s Time for the Pullum Y to Grow!

You've heard the questions, the rumors, and the speculation. But now, the time has finally arrived – the Betty J. Pullum Family YMCA is expanding!

“Our addition to the Pullum facility is long awaited,” said CEO Michael Bodenhausen. “The expansion will help us expand our current programing to match the needs of the community. This addition is not just about the building – it is about building a stronger, healthier community.”

Phase 1 of our expansion is about to begin. Here's what you can expect as we grow to meet the needs of our growing membership:

• We are adding a 4,000-square-foot modular childcare facility in the area toward the back of our property, nearest to the gymnasium. This space will be a permanent home to our afterschool and summer camp programs. When not in use for childcare, this space will house multigenerational programs and activities.
• We are expanding our fitness floor, adding approximately 2,000 square feet.
• We are remodeling our locker rooms to provide a refreshed and updated space.

Branch Executive Autumn Navarro is eager to move forward with the project. “Our upcoming expansion will transform our space into a dynamic hub for community connection and enrichment, offering childcare services alongside a diverse array of multigenerational programming, from martial arts and community meetings to family-oriented events,” she said. “This will also free up space on our basketball court so that we can continue to support our growing youth and adult programs.”

Opened in August 2004, the Pullum Y offered the first true community pool in south Santa Rosa County, meeting the Pullum family’s goal of creating a place where anyone could learn to swim and pursue a healthier lifestyle. But as we expanded our youth development and healthy living programs, it became evident that we needed more space for both.

“We're absolutely thrilled about having our own childcare space!” said Katianna Tyler, Program Director. “Not only will it provide a dedicated area for our children, but it also means we'll have ample room for expanding our activities.”

“My wife and I are really excited to see our local YMCA expand,” said Jonathan Reed, who, with his wife and three children, has been a Household Member for five years. “We have hoped for this moment since we sent our first child through the afterschool care programs and summer camps. To get a dedicated space just for the kids will make their experience even better than it already has been.

“We can’t wait to see what the director does as they get the chance to create an environment that is tailored to just kids,” he continued. “Bye-bye gymnasium… We can’t wait for the childcare building to open!”

Permits are pending, so we cannot yet confirm a date that work will begin. However, we have the necessary Board approvals and plans in place to move forward.

We will continue sharing details as they are available. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting time for our Y!