Introducing the new YMCA Arts Center at 115 E Church St in Downtown Frederick:

Thanks to the Ausherman Family Foundation, this beautiful space is now the home of the YMCA Arts Center! The large windows and beautiful wood floors bring in and reflect the natural light, making it the perfect home for the YMCA Arts & Humanities Department which includes dance, creative arts, theater, and music.

Some of the first programming held in the space:

• Summer Camp for Head Start. With the closure of schools due to COVID, funding became available to provide social development opportunities to Head Start children. The Y Arts Center gave us the opportunity to provide Camp programming to Head Start children in a new and developing space.
• Arts & Humanities Summer Camps. Summer camps for children ages 4-15 including dance, musical theater, and fine arts.
• Arts & Humanities Summer Programming. The Frederick community can explore and express their talents in a healthy and supportive environment for building creative skills. Classes help develop confidence and increased self-awareness as they participate in problem-solving, critical thinking, and attention to detail. Classes include indoor and outdoor arts classes, music, and dance!

Future plans for the Arts Center include:

• A Maker’s Space. Local artists can teach their expertise on location in large rooms perfect for instruction. 3-D printing and other state-of-the-art technologies will be part of the Maker Space. STEAM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education will be incorporated into the curriculum as well.
• Community Meeting Spaces. The many large rooms and convenient location make it perfect for non-profit organizations, local and regional businesses, parent groups, and other social gatherings.
• Drop-in Arts Programming. With the Y Arts Center conveniently located within walking distance of downtown Frederick, the Y plans to hold “Date Night” drop-in style events. YMCA members will be able to drop off their children for an evening of arts and crafts while they dine downtown.