The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce and Awsman Group Inc. are excited to announce their partnership and vision to strengthen the fabric of Owen Sound’s downtown core. The YMCA is embarking on a strategic consolidation effort, aimed at bringing all administrative employees, referred to as “Association Services,” and the majority of Community Initiatives & Employment Services staff under one roof, which will improve efficiency and be more economical for the charity.

The new location, formerly occupied by The Sun Times, includes 12,000 square feet of office space, basement storage and ample parking spaces for staff and clients. The building is centrally located, barrier-free and easily accessible, allowing the YMCA to build capacity and strengthen the Vision of being a community leader focused on improving the health and vitality of Owen Sound and Grey and Bruce Counties. This move represents a significant step towards optimizing operational efficiency and enhancing the overall administrative support structure at the YMCA, while also paving the way for future program growth opportunities and a more streamlined and effective service experience for the families and individuals served by Community Initiatives and Employment Services. The YMCA will then explore ways to optimize the office space at the Health, Fitness and Aquatics Centre so valued members can be further supported in meeting their fitness and wellness needs.

“We currently have Association Services administrative staff working at our Health, Fitness and Aquatics facility, our old Child Care building on 2nd  Ave E, and out of The Professional Centre on 3rd Ave E, where the majority of our Community Initiatives and Employment Program staff are also centred. It will be so nice to have all these teams located under one roof,” says Sarah Cowley, Chief Executive Officer at the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce. “Working with Andy Smit of Awsman Group Inc. has been a wonderful experience, and this partnership will not only be beneficial for our staff but also the entire community, making our programs and services even more accessible and ensuring that every individual has access to the essentials needed to learn, grow and thrive for years to come.”

“This is and will continue to be a great partnership and excellent use of a gorgeous downtown building in the City core. We are very excited for the YMCA, the City and the Community,” says Andy Smit, President of Awsman Group Inc.

“This is a very exciting opportunity to develop a site designed to optimize social inclusion and belonging for all. Many of the challenges our community members face are multi-faceted and require a team approach when working towards solutions. This new building will offer a welcoming and thoughtful space for clients, community partners and staff to work across programs and collaborate together “ says Matt Shute, Director of Community Initiatives & Employment Services at the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce.

With renovations well underway, the office space is expected to be ready by Spring 2024.