Our History

For over 54 years the Hanover Area YMCA has focused on empowering young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action in and across the communities we serve. We are proud of our heritage and invite you to learn more as we continually striving to make your community a better place to live. 

The Beginning - 1968

The HANOVER AREA YMCA is an affiliated association of the YMCA of the USA. The original founders organized a citizens’ committee who then recruited 1,200 members by the first meeting of the Association on October 1, 1968 also known as the Charter Night. The facility was originally located in a four story building on Carlisle St.

The Acquisition - 1971

In 1971, the HANOVER Y acquired the property located on George and Washington Streets in the northern section of the borough. It is upon this recreational site that the current facility operates.


The Groundbreaking - 1979 -1981

In 1979, we held our groundbreaking ceremony for the new YMCA at 500 George Street. The 1981 grand opening of the HANOVER AREA YMCA building, included a swimming pool, racquetball courts, cardio/weight room, whirlpool, sauna, steam room and locker rooms. The gymnasium was added in 1985.

Littlestown - 1989

In 1989, the Littlestown location of the Hanover  Area YMCA opened as a storefront with a cardio/weight room, and provided childcare in local churches. Five years later, we celebrated the grand opening in 1994 of the current building at 95 Keystone Street.

South Hanover - 2003

On July 1, 2003, the HANOVER AREA YMCA opened the SOUTH HANOVER  storefront location at 1013 Baltimore Street.

After raising more than $6 million in under a year, we broke ground on May 1, 2016 on our new 78,000 square foot sports and wellness center, including two indoor multi-sport turf fields and an expanded 24-hour fitness center.

We opened our doors to the community in the spring of 2017.

Gettysburg - 2024

In December of 2024, a merger with the YWCA of Gettysburg & Adams County brought together over 150 years of combined service to our communities, backed by the commitment of dedicated volunteer leaders and staff. With expanded reach and resources, we are poised to deliver an enhanced YMCA experience. This includes a broader range of programs, services, and opportunities that reflect the historic strengths of both the Hanover Area YMCA and the YWCA Gettysburg.

Over the years, the HANOVER AREA YMCA grew steadily in both memberships and programs. The budget has also grown from $30,000 in 1972 to over $7.2 million in 2019. Currently, the Hanover Y is serving over 12,000 members over three locations: North Hanover, Littlestown, and South Hanover.

Annual Reports

2023

2022

Press Releases

Hanover Area YMCA Press Release
1.19.2024 Field House Updates

Hanover Area YMCA Press Release
4.3.2024 North Renovations