Flushing YMCA Celebrated Its Centennial Milestone
The YMCA of Greater New York marked 100 years of community service in Queens.
Updated on Oct. 5, 2026 in Philanthropy
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The YMCA of Greater New York commemorated the centennial of the Flushing YMCA, the most visited branch in the city. The celebration successfully raised more than $150,000 to support ongoing community services.
Why it matters
This event honored a century of local impact and community service. It also highlighted the organization's long-term commitment to the area through upcoming facility investments.
The Flushing YMCA has operated for 100 years and is currently the most visited branch in New York City. The centennial event raised more than $150,000 for local programs.
The players
YMCA of Greater New York
This is a large community service organization that manages numerous branches across the five boroughs.
Richard Finkelstein
He is a veteran coach who has dedicated 40 years of service to the Flushing YMCA swim program.
Flushing Flyers
This is a competitive swim team associated with the YMCA that has won 33 consecutive New York State YMCA championships.
The details
The event featured performances by members of 189 Beacon and traditional Chinese dance by the Long Island Rainbow Dance Group. Longtime coach Richard Finkelstein was recognized for 40 years of service, having coached over 6,000 swimmers and leading the Flushing Flyers to 33 consecutive state championships.
Timeline
The Flushing YMCA originally opened in 1926.
The centennial celebration took place on Oct. 1, 2026.
A new facility is scheduled to open in 2029.
Market Landscape
The celebration follows the historical pattern set by the 1926 opening of the Flushing YMCA. This milestone underscores the organization's sustained presence in the competitive fitness and social services market in New York City.
The funds raised at the event will directly support the continued operation and availability of local community services at the branch. Residents can anticipate the opening of the new 63,000-square-foot facility in 2029.
The takeaway
The Flushing YMCA centennial demonstrates how local institutions maintain long-term relevance through community-focused programming and athletic success. Residents interested in supporting these services can look forward to the expansion of facilities by 2029.
What happens next
The Bong and May Yu Family YMCA is expected to open in 2029, providing a new 63,000-square-foot facility for the Flushing YMCA branch.
Further reading
For more information on regional charitable efforts, visit New York City Philanthropy.
Source note: This article includes information reported by QNS.
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