The Greater Wichita YMCA has announced a major partnership with Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas (BCBSKS) aimed at advancing community health and wellness programs across Central Kansas. As part of the collaboration, BCBSKS has committed a $2 million gift to support YMCA initiatives, including the capital campaign for the new Hutchinson YMCA.
The contribution builds on the organizations’ longstanding partnership and underscores their shared mission to improve community well-being and address the needs of vulnerable populations. The YMCA operates 12 branches across Sedgwick, Harvey, Reno, McPherson, and Butler counties.
“At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas, we believe that health isn’t just about doctor visits—it’s about access to programs and resources that help people live richer lives,” said Matt All, BCBSKS President and CEO. “By partnering with the Greater Wichita YMCA, we’re helping to create a community space where people feel connected, supported and inspired to live their best lives. We’re proud to invest in a future where health and well-being are within reach for everyone.”
The funding will support a wide range of YMCA programs, including nutrition classes, free chronic disease support such as LIVESTRONG at the YMCA for cancer survivors, the Parkinson’s Support Program, and the SPLASH! water-safety initiative for second graders. In addition, the gift will directly bolster the Hutchinson YMCA project—a 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility scheduled to open in 2026.
YMCA leaders say the new Hutchinson branch, developed in partnership with Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System, will serve as the “front door of health care in Reno County.”
“We thank Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas for this extremely generous donation that will allow us to break down even more barriers to bringing life-changing opportunities to the individuals who need them most,” said Ronn McMahon, Greater Wichita YMCA President and CEO. “At the Y, you can find people of all ages with diverse life experiences, financial backgrounds, physical abilities and health conditions all under the same roof with the same goal of growing into the best version of themselves in mind, body and spirit.”
Brad Dillon, chair of the Hutchinson YMCA capital campaign, emphasized the importance of the BCBSKS gift in pushing the project forward.
“The meaningful contribution from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas will be instrumental in advancing this project and strengthening our community’s vision for a healthier and more connected tomorrow,” Dillon said.