This year, the Hockomock Area YMCA is celebrating its 50th anniversary. In celebration of this milestone year, the Y is inviting its members, volunteers, staff and the community to join them for events and special programs.
“We are excited to be celebrating 50 years of impact as the Hockomock Area YMCA,” said Jim Downs, CEO of the Hockomock Area YMCA. “This milestone year is an opportunity to honor our Y’s rich history and celebrate our present as well as our future.”
In 1972, the merger of the Franklin YMCA and the North Attleboro YMCA helped established the Hockomock Area YMCA. The vision at that time, developed by dedicated volunteers, staff and community leaders, was to create a regional, family-oriented non-profit organization with programs and services available for all ages.
Dating back to the early 19th century, the roots of the YMCA were planted in Franklin and North Attleboro where programs were first held in local schools and church basements. More permanent buildings were established through the years. In 1911, a home was constructed for the Franklin Y which was the former Masonic Temple. In 1925, the Grand Army of the Republic building was purchased as the first home for the North Attleboro Y. With the incorporation of the Hockomock Area YMCA in 1972, plans were drafted to purchase a 27-acre plot of land atop Watery Hill in North Attleboro and the 50 year history began.
“As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, on behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Hockomock Area YMCA, we are grateful to continue to serve and strengthen our communities,” said Downs. “We promise to be here in the days and years ahead to be in the service of making sure people and communities thrive.”
The YMCA is asking the community to share their YMCA stories to help commemorate their 50th anniversary. Please visit www.hockymca.org/50-years for more information.
At its three full-service facilities in Foxboro, Franklin and North Attleboro, along with an arts and education center in Mansfield, the Hockomock Area YMCA is dedicated to improving the quality of life in the 15 communities it proudly serves.
