Our Mission
To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Since 1968, 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. Guided by our core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, we’re proud of our heritage and just as committed to continually making our community a better place to live. Today, that mission reaches more than 12,000 members across four locations — Gettysburg, Hanover, Littlestown, and South Hanover.
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.