The Washington County Family YMCA’s Board of Directors has announced they have accepted the resignation of current CEO Rob Gilchrist. Gilchrist will be relocating to upstate New York to lead the Hornell Area YMCA.
Gilchrist started the position in Salem on March 24, 2014. Gilchrist previously served as the aquatics and fitness coordinator for the City of Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department. Prior to that, he was an associate professor at the IU School of Public Health.
The move is a homecoming for Gilchrist who is a native of the Steuben County where Hornell is located.
Dr. Lynn Reed, the YMCA’s Board President expressed the organization’s appreciation of his service. “I’d like to thank Rob for his enthusiastic, thoughtful and forward thinking leadership. Under his guidance, membership and donations have increased and other Y staff members have been given the opportunity to use their talents to improve program offerings to our community. While we are saddened by the loss of him and his family, we are pleased for them to be returning to their hometown where they will be close to family.”
The decision to leave his post in Washington County was not easy for Gilchrist.
“This decision has been very difficult for my family and me. In the end, we made the decision based on our desire to raise our children around family. Our short time in Washington County helped us to realize the importance of family roots. We witnessed the positives experienced by those who are so integrated in the community and we longed for such a connection for our children.”
The Y has not decided who will replace Gilchrist.
Dr. Reed is working with the volunteer board to navigate the transition. “The YMCA board will meet October 19th to discuss strategy for securing new leadership.”
Gilchrist feels strongly that the organization is poised for continued success. “Our YMCA is in good hands. We have a talented and dedicated group of volunteers and staff members. I expect the Y will not miss a beat in it’s efforts to strengthen community.”
The YMCA relies on the time, talents and treasures of the community to offer valuable programs and services. For more information on how YOU can impact our community, or to learn more about how to give, contact the Y via info@wcfymca.org .
