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YMCA says partnership with Harlem Community Center could bring a facility to Machesney Park
Summary
Representatives from the YMCA of Rock River Valley told the Machesney Park Village Board they are partnering with Harlem Community Center to explore bringing a YMCA facility and programs to the village, emphasizing speed and leveraging existing local services.
Brent Pentenberg, chief executive officer of the YMCA of Rock River Valley, told the Machesney Park Village Board on Jan. 12 that the YMCA has developed a partnership with Harlem Community Center to explore bringing a YMCA facility and programming to Machesney Park.
"We have a partnership developed with Harlem Community Center where we have been working diligently ... to bring a YMCA to the village of Machesney Park," Pentenberg said, describing the collaboration as a way to leverage existing community resources and deliver services more quickly than building a standalone facility.
Melissa Burns, vice president of operations at the YMCA, said she has worked for the YMCA for 18 years and highlighted the organization’s experience running operations and childcare programs. "Between both of us ... we're gonna bring a lot of experience, you know, to continue to grow what's already been established there," Burns said.
A resident who said she has lived in Machesney Park since 2017 told the board the project matters to families who would value neighborhood access to childcare and recreation. Board members and audience members thanked the YMCA representatives for their work and for pursuing the partnership.
The YMCA presentation did not include specific timelines, facility sites or financing commitments; officials said they were prepared to answer questions and continue discussions with village leaders. The board did not take any formal action on the YMCA presentation during the meeting.
Next steps noted in the meeting: YMCA representatives offered to continue engagement with village officials and community stakeholders to refine proposals and plans for potential programs and a facility.
