YMCA celebrates 60th anniversary

FORT MADISON – The Fort Madison YMCA marked its 60th anniversary Thursday morning with a breakfast at Turnwater Bar and Grill, gathering donors, board members, supporters, and local leaders to celebrate the organization’s legacy and discuss its vision for the future.
Ryan Wilson, Executive Director of the Fort Madison YMCA, emphasized the importance of community support in the Y’s continued success.
“Whether you're a generous donor, a former board leader, or a steadfast supporter of our mission, your presence here this morning is a testament to the legacy we've built together,” Wilson said. “Sixty years ago, leaders believed that Fort Madison needed a place where families could grow stronger, their kids could learn and play safely, and neighbors could come together with purpose. That vision became reality and continues to thrive because of people like you.”
Wilson also spoke about the YMCA’s future ambitions. “As we imagine what's next, as we picture a future with creative facilities, modern spaces, and new opportunities, let’s remember that it all starts with people—it starts with you,” he said. “With your continued support and with the same spirit that started 60 years ago, we can dream bigger, build bolder, and create a future where Fort Madison Family YMCA continues to be the heart of this community for generations to come.”
Board member Jane Wentzien reflected on the Y’s inclusive spirit and its role as a “community within a community.” She shared memories of fundraising and campaigning, and highlighted the Y’s commitment to welcoming everyone, regardless of background or ability to pay.
“To me, the Y represents inclusion,” Wentzien said. “Together we built more than just a facility, we built connection, belonging, and hope through generations.”

John Agnew, CEO of the Upper Midwest Alliance of YMCAs and a former director at Fort Madison’s YMCA, recalled the impact of past expansions and fundraising campaigns.
“In 2000, we had an opportunity to take a different look at our facility and our YMCA—a $1.2 million campaign which had a huge impact on our Y,” Agnew said. “It was a great opportunity for our community to come together.”
Looking ahead, Fort Madison Mayor Matt Mohrfeld discussed the YMCA’s role in economic development and hinted at future possibilities.
Industries are looking for a couple of things—wellness paths, schools, and a YMCA the mayor said.
“If you think the YMCA is not something that has an impact on economic development, you're wrong. They look at that and say, ‘You’re a town of 10,000 people, how do you maintain a YMCA?’ And we have a thriving YMCA because, for us, it’s not brick and mortar—it’s part of a family that we use to grow our community.”
Mohrfeld also suggested that the YMCA’s next chapter could include a new facility and partnerships with local industries, such as the hospital.
“Hopefully it is going to take a co-location with some of our existing industries like a hospital, but there will be a new facility. We will move into the future and contrary to what the Y USA was telling us years ago, yes, towns of 10,000 people can have a YMCA and they will be an important part of it,” he said.