Long before construction began on the future Team Hoyt Community YMCA in Ashland, the project was rooted in a simple message that inspired millions: "Yes You Can." Now, MetroWest YMCA leaders, community members, and so many more are working to turn that philosophy into a campus designed to serve children, families and people of all abilities for generations to come.

The new Regional Early Learning Center, expected to open in September 2027, will serve more than 100 children and families and marks the beginning of a larger campus designed to promote inclusion, wellness and community connections.

For Peter Waisgerber, chief development officer for the MetroWest YMCA, the groundbreaking represents more than the start of construction. "It's exciting," Waisgerber said. "I've worked for the YMCA for more than 30 years, and my journey has really been about bringing new YMCAs to communities. Everything we do is based on the needs of the community, and right now affordable childcare is one of the biggest needs."

The whole project is in memory of Dick, Rick and Judy Hoyt," he said. "Judy really changed the landscape of special education in Massachusetts by advocating for Rick. Because of her determination, he was able to stay in the classroom and went on to graduate from Boston University. “Their mantra of 'Yes You Can' came from their love for Rick and their advocacy for other children with disabilities," he said. "We're excited about leaning into creating an inclusive place."

That philosophy has shaped every aspect of the new YMCA. "Our vision is to create one of the most inclusive YMCAs in the country," Waisgerber said. "When you enter the building, everyone will have the same experience. The main entrance, lobby, elevator and stairs are all designed so people of different abilities feel equally welcome. We want everyone to feel at home and know that this is their Y."

The campus will eventually offer a variety of programs, but leaders chose to begin with early learning because of the growing demand for childcare across MetroWest.

"The need has continued to grow dramatically," Waisgerber said. "We see it every day with the waiting list at our Framingham center, and it’s more than childcare. It’s early learning and early education with an excellent curriculum and fantastic teachers."

Like all YMCA programs, financial assistance will be available for families who need it. "We don't turn people away," Waisgerber said. "We want to make sure everyone can be part of the community regardless of their financial situation."

Metrowest YMCA will also help address other community needs, including food insecurity. Plans include a kitchen that will support meal programs for families experiencing hardship, while continuing the YMCA's efforts to connect people with additional resources.

"We have amazing staff who build trust with families," Waisgerber continued. "Our goal is always to connect people with the support they need."

The YMCA has always served many families and made an impact far greater than we can believe. Waisgerber believes this new campus will extend that impact for generations.

"I would go as far as to say we're creating a community resource that will serve generations to come," he said. "The YMCA has been around for 175 years, and we were fortunate to receive this land on the Boston Marathon route before the pandemic. It's been quite a journey."

He credits the project's progress to volunteers, donors and community members who embraced the vision from the beginning. "When good people come together for a great cause, incredible things can happen," Waisgerber said proudly. "I'm so moved by the commitment of the people who live and work in this community. None of this happens without volunteers. They've raised funds, served on committees, and continue to help move this project forward."

With construction now underway, Waisgerber said the YMCA remains focused on opening the Regional Early Learning Center in September 2027 while continuing work toward the full Team Hoyt Community YMCA campus.

"We're excited about what's ahead," he said. "We're continuing the site work and reaching out to people who want to get involved. This is an opportunity to make an impact on generations to come."