The Ashtabula County Family YMCA and Kent State University at Ashtabula have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore a potential partnership that could expand wellness, recreation and educational opportunities in the community.
The agreement marks the beginning of discussions between the two organizations as the YMCA continues planning for a new facility and a future capital campaign.
“This is an exciting step for our YMCA and for Ashtabula County,” said Eric Stinehelfer of the Ashtabula County Family YMCA. “We’re looking at how we can work together with Kent State Ashtabula to better serve families, students and the broader community in meaningful and lasting ways.”
The exploratory partnership will focus on how the YMCA’s future facility plans could align with Kent State Ashtabula’s campus, programs and student experience. Conversations include potential shared or complementary use of space, joint programming opportunities and long-term collaboration that could benefit both YMCA members and university students.
Early discussions have also included conceptual ideas such as utilizing existing campus spaces and the possibility of future facility development — including wellness and recreation amenities — that could serve both students and the public.
Kent State Ashtabula officials said the collaboration reflects the campus’s commitment to community engagement.
“We’re always looking for ways to strengthen connections with our community,” said Bill Ayres of Kent State University at Ashtabula. “This gives us an opportunity to explore how a partnership with the YMCA could enhance student life while also creating new opportunities for the people we serve.”
About the Ashtabula County Family YMCA
Founded in 1867, the Ashtabula County Family YMCA is dedicated to strengthening the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving individuals and families throughout Ashtabula County, the YMCA provides programs and partnerships that support childcare, wellness, aquatics, youth development, education, and outreach for seniors and adults. As the YMCA looks to the future, it remains committed to being a safe, welcoming place where people of all ages can connect, grow, and thrive in spirit, mind, and body.
About Kent State University at Ashtabula
Kent State University at Ashtabula has provided accessible, high-quality education in Ashtabula County for more than 65 years. Established in 1958 through the efforts of local community leaders, the campus has grown from a small program in a former junior high school into a modern, 80-acre learning environment serving more than 2,000 students annually. Today, Kent State Ashtabula remains a vital hub for education, innovation, and community engagement, offering academic programs, workforce development opportunities, and cultural experiences that continue to strengthen the region.