The Greater Wichita YMCA today announced Monday, May 20 as the reopening date for the Dr. Jim Farha Andover YMCA. The branch temporarily shut down in April 2022 following a direct hit from an EF3 tornado. When operations resume, members and guests will benefit from extensive upgrades that have taken place inside, which include installation of a signature 44-foot Luckey Climber, expanded gymnastics area and indoor gathering space for families called the Farha Family Park.

The highly anticipated return of the Andover Y, considered an anchor of the community, comes with new industry-leading features and amenities throughout and an inclusive environment intentionally created to bring families together.

The reopening is a culmination of two years of dedicated efforts and determination by the Y and its supporters to bring the facility back better than ever, all while ensuring that youth programs would go on as scheduled during construction. As a result, temporary sites in Andover and Augusta have provided families with uninterrupted access to the branch’s Early Learning Center, camp, sports and gymnastics programs through today. 

 “We are very proud of what has been accomplished and can’t wait for the Andover Y to be full once again with youth and adults who inspire each other to be their best,” said Y President and CEO Ronn McMahon. “As a new chapter of the Andover Y begins, the Y extends its gratitude once again for all the support we received from members, local families, area organizations and businesses. By coming together as a community during the rebuilding process, we further demonstrated that the Y’s mission is stronger than any one building.” 

 The following timeline has been set for pre- and post-opening activities:

 Thursday, May 16: Media Day (appointments must be set up in advance through Vice President of Marketing Shamain Bachman; entry will not be granted to media without prior scheduling).

 Friday, May 17: Public Open House, 10AM-7PM. Guests will have the opportunity to walk through the facility and visit with staff. Building facilities and equipment will not be available for use.

 Saturday, May 18 (8AM-1PM) and Sunday, May 19 (1-5PM): Limited access to the Andover Y lobby only for individuals to sign up for memberships and youth programs. Online registration for memberships and programs is also available at ymcawichita.org.

 Monday, May 20: First day of branch operations.