The YMCA of Rock River Valley and the Belvidere Family YMCA have formally merged, a move leaders say will strengthen programs, expand services, and position the organization for long-term sustainability across Boone and Winnebago counties.
The merger, effective June 1, 2026, follows a management agreement that began July 7, 2025, when the YMCA of Rock River Valley assumed operational oversight of the Belvidere facility in partnership with its local board. The transition to a full merger unites the two organizations under one structure while maintaining services in both communities.
“This is about ensuring the Y remains strong and accessible for families in Boone County for years to come,” said Brent Pentenburg, CEO of the YMCA of Rock River Valley. “By sharing resources, we can grow membership, expand programming, and increase our overall impact.”
The Belvidere Family YMCA Board of Directors has played an integral role in the partnership between the two YMCA associations. Going forward, a member of the Belvidere Board will serve on the YMCA of Rock River Valley Board of Directors to ensure representation for the community. The remaining Belvidere board members will serve as a branch advisory council.
“This merger represents an investment in the future of the Belvidere community,” said Deb Yunk, Belvidere Family YMCA Board President. “We have already seen an influx of donor support since partnering with the YMCA of Rock River Valley. Those dollars will remain in Belvidere and help us renovate and expand our amenities. We are excited about the Y’s future in Belvidere to continue sharing the YMCA’s mission, helping individuals and families thrive, and strengthening our communities for generations to come.”
As part of the merger, the Y is planning upgrades to the Belvidere facility and is actively seeking donor support to fund improvements. The Peggy & Jack Wolf Charitable Foundation has made a lead gift of $500,000, which kickstarts renovations this year.
“The Jack Wolf family has been deeply connected to the Belvidere Family YMCA for generations and remains committed to its mission and future growth,” said Amy Wolf Wilcox. “In 1967, Jack Wolf played a key role in raising funds for the YMCA’s major expansion and renovation, which allowed the facility to open debt-free — an achievement he often called one of his proudest.
Today, the Peggy & Jack Wolf Charitable Foundation is honored to support the YMCA’s expansion and facility upgrades, strengthening an organization that has long served our community while promoting wellness, connection, and opportunity for future generations.”
Proposed projects include relocating the fitness center to the first floor to improve accessibility and visibility, along with adding a new functional training and turf area to better serve a range of fitness needs.
Belvidere Family YMCA Senior Operations Manager Cherie Dollinger will remain on-site, continuing to lead day-to-day operations.
“The Y has been part of this community for more than a century, and this step allows us to build on that legacy,” Dollinger said. “With additional resources and support, we have already begun to strengthen our programs and better serve current and future members.”
Belvidere YMCA members will continue to have access to all YMCA of Rock River Valley locations, along with some new service amenities. Belvidere members will join YMCA of Rock River Valley members in getting free access to Rockford Park District pools. Construction on the fitness center is expected to start in August and be completed by December 2026.
