February 12, 2026
The YMCA of Rock River Valley and Harlem Community Center (HCC) are excited to announce a new and promising partnership that will further enhance the educational, social, and recreational needs of families and individuals in the area. Effective February 1, 2026, the YMCA of Rock River Valley assumed management responsibilities for Harlem Community Center with an intent to merge.
Harlem Community Center services include Hand-N-Hand childcare center, Heart of the Parks Early Learning Center, HCC Kids Fun Club for camp, school’s out days, and before and after school care, youth and family events, active older adult programming, and youth sports.
“This operational management agreement is a responsible and proactive step to stabilize the Harlem Community Center while preserving local governance,” said Jason Blume, HCC Board Chair. “Our board remains fully accountable, and this partnership allows us to strengthen operations, financial planning, and long-term sustainability for the families we serve.”
The YMCA and HCC offer many of the same programs and can benefit from shared resources. The goal is for both organizations to continue to meet community needs while keeping costs down.
“We have long talked about a YMCA presence in Machesney Park, and we feel like this is the perfect opportunity alongside HCC,” said Melissa Burns, VP of Membership Operations, YMCA of Rock River Valley. “Many of our team members grew up at Harlem Community Center, myself included. Now, we are raising our kids taking part in both HCC and Y programs. Both organizations have strong reputations in the community, and now we can join forces to bring the best of both entities forward.”
The partnership is supported by both Loves Park and Machesney Park mayors and boards.
“On behalf of the City of Loves Park, we are thrilled about HCC and the YMCA working together to ensure kids and families continue to have the services they need,” said Mayor Greg Jury, City of Loves Park.
The Village of Machesney Park and the YMCA have been in talks for several years about the possibility of a YMCA location in the Village.
“Harlem Community Center has been a cornerstone of our community, and this partnership with the YMCA of Rock River Valley honors that legacy. It allows us to keep HCC’s mission alive while strengthening services with the operational excellence that the YMCA is known for,” said Mayor Steve Johnson, Village of Machesney Park. “The Village has worked for years to bring a YMCA presence to Machesney Park, and this collaboration is an exciting step toward expanding sports, wellness, and childcare opportunities for residents of all ages.”
This is the third management agreement the YMCA of Rock River Valley has entered into with guidance from YUSA, which covers Belvidere Family YMCA and Dixon Family YMCA.
“YUSA is encouraging YMCAs to explore collaboration and shared service opportunities,” said Brent Pentenburg, CEO, YMCA of Rock River Valley. “Many nonprofit organizations are finding it increasingly difficult to operate in the same manner they have in the past due to rising costs. We are trying something new and hope it leads to long-term sustainability for our partner organizations and more services for our communities.”
About Harlem Community Center
The Harlem Community Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting strong community through programs which support the educational, social, and recreational needs of families and individuals. The Harlem Community Center operates two licensed childcare centers and two community facilities that host recreational programming, youth activities, and community events located in Loves Park and Machesney Park. To learn more about programs, visit www.harlemcommunitycenter.org.
