More Than a Gym

by Laura Breen Galante

For 40 years, the J. Douglas Williams YMCA in Lake Mary has been a constant in a growing community. While many know the Y as a place to work out or take a class, its deeper impact is found in the way it supports people through every stage of life.

On any given day, the YMCA is filled with familiar scenes — seniors greeting one another by name, teens gathering after school, parents juggling busy schedules, and children immersed in play. It’s a reminder that the Y’s greatest strength isn’t its facilities, but the sense of belonging it creates.

“The reward is the number of lives we’re able to change every day,” says Executive Director Warren Yon. 

Post-pandemic, the J. Douglas Williams YMCA has been rebuilding, and the staff and board have worked hard to keep the Y a place that’s welcoming to Lake Mary residents.

Where Play Builds Imagination and Healthy Habits

For families with young children, the YMCA’s screen-free Play Center offers something increasingly rare. Children are encouraged to move, imagine, and interact without screens, building social skills, independence, and confidence through active play.

“We want kids to be engaged, creative, and off screens,” says Yon. “It’s an opportunity to help them develop as individuals while giving parents peace of mind.”

Supporting Teens Where They Are

For teens, the YMCA has become an important after-school space during a formative time of life. High-school students face academic pressure, social challenges, and mental health stressors, and the Y provides a safe place to unwind, build friendships, and                 stay active.

“Teenagers just need relationships, and they need someone they can trust,” says Yon.

In addition to recreation and connection, the YMCA partners with the Brevard Prevention Coalition to provide education around drug prevention and healthy decision-making. By combining prevention education with positive peer interaction and mentorship, the Y supports teens in building confidence and resilience that extends well beyond the gym.

Connection Is Health for Older Adults

For older adults, the YMCA serves as more than a fitness center. It’s a place of routine, friendship, and connection — all of which play a vital role in overall health.

“For seniors, the Y serves as more than just a fitness space,” says Yon. “It’s a place for connection, friendship, and community.”

The YMCA also partners with programs such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, supporting cancer survivors as they rebuild strength, confidence, and community following treatment. These offerings reinforce the Y’s holistic approach to wellness, addressing physical, mental, and emotional health at every stage of life.

Summer Camp That Supports Families and the Local Economy

Summer camp at the YMCA is a highlight for many children, but its impact reaches further than summer memories.

Campers build character values such as honesty, respect, responsibility, caring, and faith, while staying active through sports, games, swimming, and outdoor play. Camps are also intentionally designed to prevent summer learning loss by keeping kids socially and mentally engaged during school breaks.

At the same time, YMCA camps support working families and the local economy by providing safe, reliable care during non-school months, allowing parents to continue supporting their households with confidence.

Youth Sports Where Every Child Plays

YMCA youth sports focus on inclusion and development over competition. Programs such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball emphasize teamwork, leadership, and confidence — ensuring every child plays and feels valued. Volunteer coaches play a critical role, offering mentorship while giving community members a meaningful way to give back.

An Invitation to Be Part of the Community

As it celebrates 40 years in Lake Mary, the J. Douglas Williams YMCA remains a cornerstone of the community — not because of what it offers, but because of what it builds.

Residents are invited to tour the Y, learn more about programs, volunteer, support financial assistance initiatives, or get involved as members or participants.

Because at the Lake Mary YMCA, community isn’t accidental – it’s built every day.

To learn more about the Lake Mary Y, call 407-321-8944 or visit YMCACF.org/locations/jdouglaswilliams.