Ballantyne's popular Morrison Family YMCA is getting a new owner, and it comes with a cross instead of a corporate logo. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte has agreed to sell the Morrison branch to Moments of Hope Church for $42.5 million, the groups announced Wednesday. The busy south Charlotte center will stay open while the church plans a redevelopment that could feature sports programming, community outreach and a possible future school. YMCA leaders say the sale proceeds will help modernize nearby centers and expand community programming, a move that has already stirred anxiety among members about the future of pools, camps and youth sports in the area.
In a press release via YMCA of Greater Charlotte, the association said its board approved entering into a $42.5 million purchase-and-sale agreement with Moments of Hope Church. The statement said the Morrison Family YMCA will remain open and fully operational through an anticipated closing in summer 2027, and that community partners leasing space there can continue to operate until that date. "We know the Morrison YMCA has been a meaningful place for many members, families and staff," said Sue Glass, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.
The buyer plans to redevelop the property into a new church home and expand ministry offerings, including sports programming and a possible school, as reported by Queen City News. The YMCA is framing the agreement as part of a broader reinvestment strategy tied to its 2025–2028 plan.
How the Y plans to use the proceeds
The YMCA says a portion of the sale proceeds will be reinvested in capital projects and program work across its network, with an immediate focus on shoring up centers near Morrison. Leaders specifically identified work at the Johnston YMCA in NoDa, Stratford Richardson YMCA, Harris YMCA and the Hemby Program Center as priorities they hope to accelerate, according to the Y.
Local reaction and capacity concerns
Longtime members and parents have been telling neighbors they are worried about where swim lessons, summer camps and youth sports will go once Morrison eventually closes. YMCA officials say they intend to offer many current Morrison programs at nearby centers and alternative neighborhood locations while association leaders and a Morrison advisory board reimagine how to serve the community in the years ahead.
Why the sale matters
The move follows a multi-year effort by the association to reshape its footprint after pandemic-era drops in membership and revenue. A 2023 report from WFAE noted the YMCA's revenue and membership declined sharply after 2019, context the organization has cited as it pursues reinvestment and modernization. The Morrison center is expected to operate normally through the transition, and YMCA leaders say they will share details about program relocations and timing in the coming months. Members are encouraged to contact their branch or check the YMCA's website for updates as planning continues.
