YMCA Names New Sylvania Branch to Recognize Mike and Karen Fischer
New 53,000-square-foot facility will expand access to wellness, recreation, youth programs and community connection, with opening targeted for early 2027.
Toledo, Ohio — October 28, 2026 — The YMCA of Greater Toledo is proud to announce that its newest Sylvania location will be named The Fischer Family YMCA, Sylvania, recognizing longtime members and supporters Mike and Karen Fischer for their generous support to the organization. Their gift will help create more opportunities for children, families and older adults to stay active, build relationships and find a sense of belonging.
“The YMCA has been an important part of our lives, and we believe in the difference it makes when people have a place to connect, grow and support one another,” said Mike and Karen Fischer. “We’re honored to support this next chapter for the YMCA of Greater Toledo and help more people feel welcome and connected in Sylvania.”
Located at 2859 N. Holland Sylvania Road, about two miles from the current Sylvania YMCA/JCC Campus, the 53,000-square-foot facility will transform a former LA Fitness into an expanded hub for wellness, youth development and community connection. The YMCA is targeting an opening in early 2027.
The new branch will feature:
- An indoor swimming pool and the area’s largest indoor walking track
- An indoor pickleball court and food pantry
- Expanded wellness and fitness space
- EGYM equipment, a first for any YMCA of Greater Toledo location
- A larger Kid’s Zone
- Dedicated gymnastics and youth dance spaces
- Areas for members and neighbors to gather
“This project is about more than a new building. It is about creating more opportunities for people to thrive and ensuring the YMCA can continue to meet the changing needs of our community,” said Brad Toft, president of YMCA of Greater Toledo. “Thanks to the Fischers and our many supporters, we can renovate an existing building to open sooner and at a lower cost than our original YMCA/JCC campus expansion plan, allowing us to create spaces and resources that directly support our mission while making better use of an existing community asset.”
The expansion will increase childcare capacity at the existing YMCA/JCC Campus, allowing the branch to serve more children and families. The campus will also continue to offer summer day camp, seasonal outdoor pool and pickleball court access, and year-round racquetball.
“Strong communities are built when people of all ages have access to places and programs that help them stay healthy, learn and connect,” said Mark Frye, mayor of Sylvania. “The Fischer Family YMCA investment is a welcome addition to the Sylvania area. I look forward to the opportunities this new facility will bring.”
The Fischer Family YMCA, Sylvania represents the next chapter in the organization’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. With the support of the Fischer family and the broader community, the YMCA is creating more room for people to come together, build meaningful relationships and thrive.
The YMCA of Greater Toledo is working to raise an additional $1.5 million to support the project. To learn more about supporting the campaign, contact Whitney Keeler at [email protected].
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About the YMCA of Greater Toledo
The YMCA of Greater Toledo is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Serving Northwest Ohio and Southeast Michigan, the Y creates opportunities for individuals and families to learn, grow and thrive through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. Learn more at ymcatoledo.org.
For media inquiries, interview requests or additional information, please contact:
Karlie Perry
Executive Director of Marketing and Membership
YMCA of Greater Toledo
[email protected]