YMCA of Vincennes Receives $50K Grant for Family Wellness Space

VINCENNES, Ind. (We Are Knox County) - The YMCA of Vincennes has received a $50,000 grant from the CenterPoint Energy Foundation to support a new wellness and education space aimed at strengthening families and promoting healthier living.

The funds support a partnership with the Family Health Center of Vincennes to launch the Strengthening Families program later this year.

“The Strengthening Families program's goal is to develop strong healthy children with strong self-esteem being raised in strong healthy families,” YMCA Development Director Helen Seirp told WAKC News Now.

“This will have a positive impact on our community and the next generation of leaders.”

The renovated space features a Family Education Kitchen, SmartFit Educational Activity Wall, and areas for group gatherings and indoor play.

It also includes pickleball and volleyball courts, batting cages, ADA-accessible restrooms, and open areas for all-age wellness activities.

According to Seirp, the project is part of Phase 2 of the YMCA’s $2.5 million capital campaign—its first in 25 years—which repurposed an unused gymnastics space.

The partnership came after the Family Health Center approached the YMCA about hosting the program.

“It was a perfect fit,” Seirp said.

“It aligns with our goal of building strong kids, strong families, and a strong community.”

The new space is expected to open by late July.

The Strengthening Families program will begin in late fall 2025.

Participants will be referred through the Family Health Center, though other services will be open to the public.

“The YMCA’s goal is to offer programming to all who are in need at no cost or a minimal cost,” said Seirp.

“We are very grateful to CenterPoint for their generous donation,” Seirp added.

“It positions us to be the community hub impacting lives across generations.”