The Edward L. Gaylord Downtown YMCA proudly commemorates the 25th anniversary of its grand opening, which marks a significant milestone in the association’s history. Beyond celebrating a remarkable achievement, this anniversary serves as a testament to the enduring resilience of the Oklahoma City community.

The original YMCA in downtown Oklahoma City was located near the Murrah Federal Building. The impact of the blast on April 19, 1995, was keenly felt, with the Y’s west side, including the Child Development Center, bearing the brunt of the destruction. Despite the profound challenges faced in the aftermath, the downtown YMCA remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the downtown community.

Four years later, on Monday, April 26, 1999, the Edward L. Gaylord Downtown YMCA opened just a few blocks away, symbolizing not only the physical rebuilding of a facility, but the unwavering spirit of the community members who called it home. Since opening, the ‘new’ Downtown YMCA has proven it’s more than a ‘gym and swim.’ The Y is a community hub that also offers essential resources and support to those in need.

“This anniversary is not just about the YMCA; it’s a celebration of the strength and resilience of our community,’ said YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City President & CEO Kelly Kay. “Together, we can continue to build a stronger, healthier and more connected community.”

Though the reason behind why the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City association needed to open the Edward L. Gaylord Downtown Y is a tragic one, what local residents and businesses did to build the facility is not. Their actions helped to bring the facility to life and exemplify the Oklahoma Standard.

The Oklahoma Publishing Co. (OPUBCO) generously donated its downtown property, from the corner of 4th & Broadway to the railroad tracks, for the new YMCA campus. There would be enough space for a child development center, a fitness facility, and a headquarters the association could call home. Edward L. Gaylord, OPUBCO’s president at the time and the current downtown Y’s namesake, was a steadfast benefactor of the association. His family has continued their generosity to this day, providing funding for improvements to the Child Development Center just last year in 2023.

The Oklahoma City Council granted the YMCA over $1 million for interior renovations of the building at 500 N. Broadway, the Association’s new headquarters. Community donations also helped to fund the construction of the Child Development Center and fitness facility. Countless others provided the Y with the resources needed to rebuild—both literally and figuratively.

To commemorate this milestone and share their appreciation, the YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City invites the community to visit the Edward L. Gaylord Downtown YMCA today to learn about its impact over the last 25 years and enjoy light refreshments.