YMCA in downtown Minneapolis holds ribbon cutting in Gaviidae Common

The YMCA of Minneapolis officially celebrated the opening of the new Douglas Dayton YMCA at Gavidae on Tuesday, showcasing the space in front of YMCA employees, public officials, business leaders and the general public walking through the skyway at Gaviidae Common.

The event included remarks from Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey—who proclaimed March 6, 2018 “YMCA Day in Minneapolis”—as well as a representative from U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar’s office, well wishes from Gov. Mark Dayton, appearances by the Twins’ T.C. Bear, Vikings’ Viktor and Timberwolves’ Crunch, and others.

Attendees had the opportunity to tour the new Dayton Y located at 651 Nicollet and experience firsthand how the Dayton Y will strengthen the community with unique opportunities ranging from getting fit using state-of-the-art virtual reality equipment, reducing stress through integrative health and healing practices in the George Wellbeing Center,  and participating in experiential learning and simulations on equity, diversity, inclusion and global realities, and much more.

“The Y has served the Minneapolis and greater Twin Cities community for 162 years, and we look forward to continuing to engage our diverse and dynamic neighborhood for years to come,” said Glen Gunderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of the Greater Twin Cities. “Together we can change lives in so many ways through innovative programs and activities that help all to thrive in each stage of life.”

The YMCA, which said it has 7,000 members at its downtown location, moved from its previous location on 9th and LaSalle. It officially opened its doors at Gaviidae in January.

For more information, visit the Douglas Dayton YMCA at Gaviidae website.

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