SALINA, Kan. — The Salina Family YMCA announced plans to transition Angel Early Learning Center into its YMCA Early Learning Center and McAdams Childcare Center locations as part of a long-term strategy to strengthen its early learning programs. The transition is targeted for completion by Sept. 30, 2026.

Over the past year, YMCA leadership has carefully monitored enrollment trends, operational performance and long-term financial sustainability while evaluating multiple options before reaching this decision. The YMCA said the transition is designed to strengthen the quality of its early learning services and ensure the organization can continue meeting the needs of children and families across the community for years to come.

“This decision was made thoughtfully and with great care,” Salina Family YMCA CEO Chris Lehecka said. “Throughout this process, we kept coming back to one question: How can we best use our resources to strengthen childcare for the families who depend on us? We believe this transition positions us to do exactly that.”

The YMCA emphasized that all Angel families who wish to remain in YMCA childcare programs will have placement opportunities at either the YMCA Early Learning Center or McAdams Childcare Center. Staff members are working directly with families to develop individualized transition plans. YMCA leadership anticipates little to no disruption for families already enrolled at the YMCA Early Learning Center or McAdams.

The YMCA intends to retain as many childcare team members as possible throughout the transition, recognizing that the relationships among teachers, children and families are central to a successful early learning experience.

“Our Angel team has poured their hearts into caring for children and supporting families,” Lehecka said. “We’re deeply grateful for the relationships they’ve built and the impact they’ve made. This decision is about strengthening our programs for the future, not about the dedication of the people who have served these families so well.”

Consolidating the YMCA’s early learning programs into two centers will allow the organization to strengthen classroom support, better align staffing and resources, encourage greater collaboration among educators, improve operational sustainability and continue investing in high-quality early childhood education.

The transition will allow the YMCA to focus its people, resources and investments on two stronger early learning centers, creating a more sustainable foundation for serving children and families into the future.

“This is not a step backward; it is an investment in the future,” Lehecka said. “By focusing our resources, we’re building a stronger foundation for early learning in Salina. Our responsibility is to make decisions that not only meet today’s needs but also position our organization to serve children and families even better tomorrow.”

The YMCA recognizes that this transition may be emotional for children, families and staff members. The organization said it is committed to maintaining open communication and supporting each family throughout the process.

The YMCA believes every child deserves a safe, caring and engaging place to learn, grow and build confidence. While locations may change, the YMCA said its commitment to children and families remains stronger than ever.

Additional updates and family meetings will be scheduled in the coming weeks as the YMCA works closely with families and staff.

About the Salina Family YMCA

The Salina Family YMCA has served the community since 1886 with a mission to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

The YMCA is a nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the community by connecting people to their potential, purpose and one another. Working locally, the YMCA focuses on supporting young people, improving health and well-being, and inspiring action throughout the community.

By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives and generations, the YMCA works to ensure everyone has access to the opportunities, relationships and resources necessary to learn, grow and thrive.

Learn more at salinaymca.org.