The Hornell Area Family YMCA was founded in 1883 to serve the Hornell community with a permanent facility erected in 1911. Originally founded as a low-cost housing and recreational sporting facility for railroad employees, the YMCA included two floors of dormitory housing, a gymnasium, and meeting space.  Throughout the twentieth century, the building was modified and added to in order to provide a pool, teen center (the Foxhole), child care and preschool facilities, a fitness center, and weight room.

By 2002 it became clear that a new facility was required to serve the changing needs of the community.  With a lead gift from Bob & Ann Fletcher, over 700 donors contributed to build a new YMCA.  The Y opened in July 2011.  A second capital campaign immediately began to raise funds to build the pool, led by a gift from the Steiner family and including contributions from over 600 donors.  The pool opened in March 2014, completing the Y’s new facility.

Since 1883, the Hornell Area Family YMCA has served the City of Hornell and 30 surrounding communities in Steuben, Allegany, and Livingston Counties with facilities and programs that nurture mind, body, and spirit.