Alvernia University and Schuylkill YMCA: A Model for Community-Focused Campus Development
A fresh partnership between Alvernia University – Pottsville and the Schuylkill YMCA is bringing a much-needed expansion to the YMCA’s gymnastics program, while simultaneously revitalizing a former supermarket site. The collaboration, centered around the CollegeTowne building on Progress Avenue, demonstrates a growing trend of universities actively integrating with and serving their local communities.
From Supermarket to Community Hub
The CollegeTowne building, formerly a Giant supermarket that closed in 2020, is undergoing a transformation. Alvernia University currently occupies approximately 12,000 square feet of the 20,000-square-foot space for nursing and other degree programs, the O’Pake Institute for Economic Development and Entrepreneurship, and community meeting spaces. The remaining space is being strategically allocated to the Schuylkill YMCA gymnastics center and a new cafe.
This adaptive reuse of a vacant commercial property addresses multiple needs. It provides a dedicated facility for a popular and growing youth program – currently serving 95 children with a waiting list of 200 – and creates opportunities for economic growth in downtown Pottsville. The YMCA’s current gymnastics setup requires staff to repeatedly set up and take down mats, limiting program availability. The new center will allow for gymnastics classes to be held seven days a week.
A $2.2 Million Investment in Community Growth
The project carries a $2.2 million price tag, funded through a combination of public and private sources. $1 million has been secured through the Pennsylvania Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, with an additional $700,000 coming from philanthropic commitments. This blended funding model highlights the collaborative effort driving the project.
Beyond Gymnastics: A Culinary Innovation Hub
The development isn’t limited to athletic facilities. A cafe is also planned for the CollegeTowne building, aiming to serve students, gymnastics participants, and the wider public. Alvernia University and the Pottsville Area Development Corporation (PADCO) are partnering on “Launch Pottsville III,” a food innovation competition to determine the cafe’s operator. Seven participants are vying for the opportunity, with the winner to be announced on May 14th.
This initiative underscores a broader trend of universities fostering entrepreneurship and supporting local businesses. By providing a platform for culinary innovation, Alvernia is contributing to the economic vitality of Pottsville.
Long-Term Partnership and Community Commitment
According to Thomas Minick, Alvernia’s vice president of advancement and government affairs, the university views this as a long-term partnership with the YMCA. Amanda Karenda, CEO of Schuylkill YMCA, anticipates the expansion will allow the program to grow to approximately 150 gymnasts. The move will also free up space in the YMCA’s Centre Street facility for expansion of other sports programs like soccer and basketball.
The Rise of University-Community Partnerships
The Alvernia-YMCA collaboration is part of a larger national trend. Universities are increasingly recognizing their role as anchor institutions within their communities. This involves leveraging their resources – facilities, expertise, and student talent – to address local challenges and drive economic development.
Similar initiatives include university-led business incubators, community health clinics operated by medical schools, and partnerships with local schools to improve educational outcomes. These collaborations benefit both the university and the community, fostering stronger relationships and creating a more vibrant local ecosystem.
FAQ
When is the ribbon-cutting for the new gymnastics center? March 5th.
How many children are currently on the waiting list for the gymnastics program? 200.
What was the building previously used for? A Giant supermarket.
How much funding has been secured for the project? $1.7 million ($1 million from the state and $700,000 from philanthropic commitments).
What is Launch Pottsville III? A food innovation competition to select the operator for the new cafe.
Pro Tip: Look for universities in your area that are actively seeking community partnerships. These collaborations often create opportunities for local residents, businesses, and organizations.
Interested in learning more about community development initiatives in Pennsylvania? Explore resources from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
Do you have thoughts on how universities can better serve their communities? Share your ideas in the comments below!
