Who We Are

The purpose of the Oklahoma Alliance of YMCAs is to represent the collective voice and leverage the collective impact of all 13 independent Oklahoma YMCAs; foster statewide communication and collaboration; and inspire, nurture and strengthen communities by advancing youth development, healthy living and social responsibility through advocacy, programming and collaboration. 

Annually, Oklahoma YMCAs serve 390,000 people in over 36 communities across the Sooner State. As public charities Y's are led by volunteer boards to address local needs with the longstanding commitment that no one is turned away for an inability to pay; Oklahoma Ys engage over 135,000 children and teens through a wide range of activities to nurture their potential and ensure their success. With almost 15,000 volunteers and over 4,400 employees, the Y is making a difference in all of the Oklahoma communities it serves.

COLLABORATION

The Y recognizes the importance of working together to create lasting social and personal change. We have the community's trust to convene, partner, and support community collaborations with schools, government agencies, faith based organizations, businesses and others. 

The Oklahoma Alliance of YMCAs is proud to serve as a member of coalitions to fight hunger, ensure after school access for all, and improve health outcomes for our state. 

EVERYONE IS WELCOME

In 2015 Oklahoma Ys provided $6,281,116 in direct financial assistance to individuals and families to ensure Y membership and programs are affordable to all. An additional $2,389,847 in assistance was provided through free and subsidized programs open to the community, school groups, and other non-profits. 

Oklahoma YMCAs partner and support our neighbors; last year Y's provided $305,948 worth of meeting and facility space at little to no charge for outside clubs, nonprofits, community service organizations, and civic clubs to help them meet broader community needs. 

Board of Directors

Joe Paslay, Chair
Cleveland County Family YMCA

Robert Phillips, Vice Chair
Richard Kane YMCA - Bartlesville

Dolph Hayden, Secretary
Okmulgee Family YMCA

Kelly Kay, Treasurer
YMCA of Greater Oklahoma City 

Susan Plank, Chair Emeritus
YMCA of Greater Tulsa

Rick Endicott
Lawton Family YMCA

Greg Shamburg
Denny Price Family YMCA - Enid

Carol Ricord
Noble County Family YMCA

Brandon Bell
Troy and Dolly Smith YMCA - Shawnee

Jana Weichbrot
Ardmore Family YMCA

Casey Doty
YMCA of Ponca City

Tiana McCowan
Texas County Family YMCA

Staff

Paula Wackenheim
Alliance Executive Director

Y-USA Support

Judy Barrett-Miller
Sr. Manager State Advocacy

Jonie Welle
Y-USA Resource Director

 Our Mission

To put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. 

Our Cause

At the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive. 

Our Focus

We believe that to bring about meaningful change in individuals and communities, we must be focused and accountable. That's why we focus our work in three key areas that are fundamental to strengthening community: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.