Back-to-Back Openings: YMCA of Muncie and Putnam County YMCA open their doors

March was anything but madness for Elevatus’ Health & Wellness Team. In back-to-back grand openings, the highly anticipated YMCA of Muncie and Putnam County YMCA both welcomed their communities with open doors.
Slam Dunk Success: Putnam County YMCA
March 1 marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for the Putnam County YMCA, bringing expanded wellness, recreation, and community spaces to the greater Greencastle area. The open house event welcomed members of the community, both longtime YMCA supporters and new faces, eager to experience everything the facility has to offer.
The day was filled with excitement, kicking off with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the front entrance. The celebration continued inside with a ceremonial first basketball shot into the new YMCA hoops, an activity led by local athletes and Putnam County YMCA Branch Director Nicole Fry.
Throughout the event, YMCA team members and Putnam County Hospital representatives eagerly welcomed guests, sharing their enthusiasm for this collaborative space that integrates fitness, wellness, and medical services under one roof. From the vibrant gymnasium and basketball courts to the versatile fitness areas and wellness spaces, attendees had the chance to explore the thoughtful design behind this dynamic facility.
If this project could be described in one word, that word would be, “teamwork,” a reflection of the many hands that came together to bring this vision to life.
Teaming up for a Bigger Win: YMCA of Muncie
A common thread throughout this project has been the commitment to bringing together local stakeholders to create a final product that truly serves the community. On March 8, the YMCA of Muncie officially opened its doors, marking a transformative moment for the city. The event began with a prayer, setting a reflective and celebratory tone for the day.
Local community members, YMCA officials, and corporate partners gathered on a sunny March morning to celebrate a major milestone. This new YMCA, located at 2901 E. Jackson St., stands as a state-of-the-art facility that brings together recreation, wellness, and community health services in a single location.
This project was made possible through a powerful collaboration between Muncie Community Schools, IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, Open Door Health Services, Muncie Area Career Center, and Ball State University’s Healthy Lifestyle Center. The partnership was further strengthened by the support of generous donors and new market tax credits, ensuring that the YMCA of Muncie is accessible to all and built for long-term sustainability. More than just a new YMCA, this facility serves as a hub of connection, well-being, and support—providing opportunities for youth, families, and individuals across the region.
YMCA of Muncie CEO Chad Zaucha recognized the strengths of all teams involved in the project. He, along with other speakers, emphasized the deep impact this facility will have on the community. Following heartfelt words of dedication and appreciation, the flagpole outside the new YMCA was officially dedicated to Chad Zaucha, honoring his leadership and contributions.
Additionally, Zaucha was presented with an achievement necklace on behalf of the Indiana Alliance of YMCAs for his “strength to grow strategy,” a reflection of his vision to expand the YMCA’s reach and enhance community impact.