Nine people pose in front of brick building
YMCA and United Way leaders are shown here at the Mansfield location.

MANSFIELD – The United Way of Richland County and the YMCA of North Central Ohio have announced the renewal of their partnership.

This renewal reaffirms their shared commitment to strengthening communities and improving the lives of individuals and families. 

The partnership was celebrated today at a press event at 2 p.m., featuring critical leaders from both organizations.

The event, which took place at the YMCA of North Central Ohio, Mansfield branch, included a formal signing of the document solidifying the renewed partnership.

Dan Varn, CEO of the United Way, and Cristen Gilbert, CEO of the YMCA, signed the agreement, marking a significant renewal of a longtime partnership.

Key speakers at the event included:

• Dan Varn, CEO of United Way of Richland County
• Cristen Gilbert, CEO of YMCA of North Central Ohio
• Colene Horning, CFO of Spherion Mid-Ohio and Chair of the United Way Board
• Paul Boggs, President and CEO of Jay Industries and 2024 United Way Campaign Chair

The renewed partnership will focus on the continued effort to provide scholarships to children and families through childcare and membership subsidies at all seven of the childcare sites and before- and after-school programs within the county.

This collaboration underscores both organizations’ dedication to creating positive change and addressing pressing community needs.

“We are thrilled to renew our partnership with the YMCA,” Varn said. “Together, we will continue to build a stronger, more vibrant community and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

Gilbert added, “The renewal of our partnership with United Way represents a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to support and empower our community. We look forward to working together to achieve our shared vision.”

Paul Boggs also expressed his enthusiasm for the renewed partnership.

“The collaboration between United Way and YMCA is a testament to what can be achieved when organizations come together with a common purpose. I am proud to support this impactful alliance.”

For more information about the renewed partnership and upcoming initiatives, please visit www.ymcanco.org and https://unitedwayofrichlandcounty.org/ or contact Dan Varn, Executive Director, dvarn@unitedwayofrichlandcounty.org.