Since 1944, the Davis-Scott Family YMCA has been a fixture on the East Side. Its gymnasium is used by residents of all ages for a variety of activities, from youth sports to health fairs. But that constant use means that the gym now needs to be refurbished.
In October, the YMCA of Greater San Antonio was awarded an Impact San Antonio Support Grant, which will be used to repair and repaint the Davis-Scott gym floor. It’s part of an overall upgrade for the gym.
The refurbishment will include sanding, sealing and waxing the current floor. New basketball, volleyball and pickleball court lines will be painted on the floor. The project is expected to be completed by the end of December.
The Davis-Scott Family YMCA serves an area, primarily in ZIP code 78203, that is comprised of 77 percent Hispanic and 18 percent Black residents. There is concern about chronic health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. A sedentary lifestyle can exacerbate these conditions, so participating in activities such as those offered at the gym is important to promote good health.
Youth can choose from a variety of programs, including basketball, after school activities, summer camps and volunteer activities. There are senior adult activities, as well as community events, vaccine clinics and health fairs for all ages.
Children run and play during summer camp at the Davis-Scott Family YMCA.
Almost 1,800 youths use the gym now, most of whom come from low-income families. There are gangs in the area, and sports programs at the gym are used to keep young people off the streets and out of trouble. About 1,000 other community members participate in events at the gym, including the annual community prayer breakfast and the Martin Luther King Parade gathering.
The Midnight Basketball program is being planned for this coming spring with a goal of engaging 150 youth. In coordination with the San Antonio Police Department, the program offers a structured environment that deters delinquent activities. The program combines supervised sports with mentorship, creating a safe space for youth.
“The combination of supervised sports and mentorship promotes skill development and personal growth, creating a safe space that positively influences attitudes and behaviors,” said Anabel Spencer, senior director of grants management for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
Those who take part in programs in the gym are very appreciative.
“I am 14 years old, and this is my first year playing at the YMCA,” one Davis-Scott member said. “So far, the experience has exceeded my expectations. The team morale is amazing.”
“I think it is great that the program is so kid-friendly and kid-centered,” another member said. “Having both the kids and the parents take the YMCA pledge reminds everyone why we work together as a community to build a foundation for our kids.”
The YMCA is grateful to Impact SA for the Support Grant.
“The generosity of Impact SA enables us to continue our efforts in improving lives and addressing the critical needs of those we serve,” Spencer said. “We appreciate the confidence and trust placed in our organization by Impact San Antonio, and we are committed to utilizing this grant for our Davis-Scott Family YMCA gym renovation to make a meaningful and lasting difference in our community.”
To see the YMCA’s grant finalist video, click here.
