Congratulations to The YMCA of Wayne County on being named the 2026 WorthyWorks Award recipient!

The YMCA of Wayne County has served the community since 1939. Guided by its mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the YMCA offers fitness and wellness, aquatics, childcare, youth sports, senior programming, and community outreach.

CEO Nikki Fehrenbach has been with the YMCA for more than 25 years, serving in a variety of roles. Today, she oversees strategic direction, operations, community partnerships, fundraising, and program development. With more than 250 employees, the YMCA is the largest childcare provider in the county, serving approximately 450-500 children daily. The organization also opened the area’s first Therapeutic Child Care center in collaboration with The Village Network.

The YMCA’s mission extends across a lifespan, from birth through the golden years, with a focus on creating a welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Through partnerships with schools, nonprofits, local organizations, and government, the YMCA continues to adapt to evolving community needs.

Fehrenbach considers serving Wayne County a privilege and values collaboration as an essential part of the YMCA’s impact. “These partnerships help ensure we are providing the best possible programs and services and allow the YMCA to be a trusted and engaged community partner,” she shared.

Receiving the WorthyWorks Award is a source of pride and a validation of the dedication of the YMCA’s staff and volunteers. Fehrenbach credits the organization’s success to its committed team, engaged board of directors, supportive donors and partners, and the families and members they serve.

Looking to the future, the YMCA of Wayne County remains focused on expanding access to affordable childcare, strengthening youth through safe spaces and programs, improving community health, and removing financial barriers to participation. The organization is also planning for a new YMCA facility and is working to identify land that is accessible to those who need its services most. This recognition serves as motivation to continue growing its impact and filling gaps in services throughout the community.

The WorthyWorks Award is presented annually in partnership with the Wayne County Community Foundation to a local 501(c)3 not-for-profit in recognition of its long lasting commitment to the quality of life in the community and active contributions to the betterment of the community.

2026 WorthyWorks Award - YMCA of Wayne County