About Us

YMCA of Upper Palmetto was first established in February of 1913. The headquarters were located in the offices of J.P. Hollis (above the Rock Hill Hardware Store). After several moves and efforts to raise funds for the building, the Charlotte Avenue YMCA opened its doors on December 22, 1950. Over 100 years later, YMCA of Upper Palmetto continues to serve in  York, Lancaster and Chester counties at twelve locations.

Our Mission

Our mission is 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.

Who We Are

The Y is the nation’s leading nonprofit committed to strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.

For Youth Development

Nurturing the potential of every child and teen

We believe the values and skills learned early on are vital building blocks for the future. At the YMCA of Upper Palmetto, children and teens learn values and positive behaviors, and can explore their unique talents and interests, helping them realize their potential.

For Healthy Living

Improving the nation’s health and well-being

Being healthy is about maintaining a balanced spirit, mind and body. At the Y,  you can work toward that balance by challenging yourself to learn a new activity, fostering connections with neighbors, or joining family-centered activities.

For Social Responsibility

Giving back and providing support to our neighbors

The generosity of others is at the core of the Y’s existence as a nonprofit. It is only through the support of volunteers and donors that we are able to support and give back to our communities.

We Want to Hear from You:

NOTE: Please do not use this form to notify us of your intent to cancel or adjust your membership.  Cancellation Forms and Change Forms must be submitted IN PERSON to the Y and it must be done by the last day of the month to avoid further bank draft charges.

Angie Smith

Angie Smith, is a gifted writer, encourager and loving mother of four. Together with her husband, former NFL player Steve Smith, they established The Steve Smith Family Foundation, which is dedicated to providing hope and inspiration to those in need while advancing causes  close to the family’s heart – Promoting family health & wellness as well as the awareness and prevention of domestic violence.

In 2022, The Steve Smith Foundation and Mecklenburg County partnered to create Charlotte’s first behavioral health urgent care, a 24/7, 365 urgent care facility dedicated to mental health and substance abuse needs.

Angie’s commitment to her family, transparency and unselfishness, by putting other’s needs before her own, is an inspiration to all of us!

Alan Tyson

Alan Tyson is the President Architech Sports and Physical Therapy. He was the former Vice President of Sports Performance and Rehabilitation for OrthoCarolina. He is a physical therapist board certified as a sports clinical specialist, a certified athletic trainer and certified strength and conditioning specialist. He has worked with the Charlotte Knights (AAA affiliate of the Chicago White Sox) and continues to serve as a consultant to the team. Alan is also a consultant with the Carolina Panthers and Charlotte Eagles.

Alan has spoken regionally and nationally on various training topics including the foot and ankle, spine care, hip and knee rehabilitation, and he has developed two continuing education courses on the shoulder. He has written 3 books and developed specific training programs for the female athlete, the baseball pitcher, and for football players preparing for the NFL combines. Alan is also an associate editor of the National Strength and Conditioning Journal. He co-hosted a weekly radio show “Health Headlines” on 1110AM WBT with Stacey Sims and Dr. Russ Greenfield for 3 years.

Antoinette Johnson

Meet Antoinette Johnson, the inspiring culinary star of “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation” Hailing from Lexington, KY, she transforms simple, humble ingredients into extraordinary dishes, all while championing the use of fresh, locally-sourced produce. Through her triumph on “America’s Test Kitchen: The Next Generation,” Antoinette’s unwavering perseverance catapulted her career, proving that with passion and determination, anything is possible. With a heart dedicated to community and a love for supporting local farmers, Antoinette’s journey is a testament to embracing change, fostering growth, and inspiring others to follow their culinary dreams.

Beyond her culinary triumphs, Antoinette is a firm believer in the power of evolution and perseverance. She stands as a shining example of how one can constantly evolve, change, and grow on their journey to success. Antoinette’s story is one of resilience and determination, inspiring others to follow their passions despite any challenges they may encounter.

Now, with a cookbook deal and cash grand prize, Antoinette is forging ahead on her culinary adventure, driven by the desire to prove herself and inspire her daughter.