Craig and Steven Hogan Family YMCA

Overview

Heart of the Valley YMCA is a non-profit community fitness and wellness center (not exclusively a sauna business, but featuring saunas and steam rooms as key amenities within its comprehensive facilities). Spanning multiple branches in North Alabama (Huntsville and Madison areas), it serves as a hub for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The facility type includes full-service gyms, indoor pools, group fitness areas, and relaxation spaces like saunas and steam rooms.

• Overall atmosphere and experience: Welcoming, family-friendly, and community-oriented, emphasizing inclusivity, fun, and personal growth. Testimonials highlight clean, affordable facilities with friendly staff, suitable for all ages. Members enjoy a sense of belonging, with activities fostering physical health, social connections, and values like caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. It’s more than a gym—it’s a place where families thrive, kids learn, and communities strengthen.

Features & Amenities

The YMCA boasts state-of-the-art facilities across branches like Hogan Family YMCA, Southeast Family YMCA, and Downtown Express YMCA:

• Fitness centers with cardio equipment, weightlifting areas (e.g., The Workshop), and personal training spaces.
• Indoor pools for swimming, aquatics, and family fun.
• Saunas and steam rooms (bathing suits or gym attire required; use must end by closing time).
• Group exercise studios for yoga, fitness classes, and more.
• Gymnasiums for basketball, volleyball, and youth sports.
• Racquetball courts and indoor running/walking tracks.
• Locker rooms with private changing areas.
• Child Watch (free for members, 2-hour limit) and youth areas like climbing trees.
• Additional perks: Nationwide membership access, mobile app for check-ins, and family-friendly environments.

Services

Diverse programs cater to all ages and interests:

• Health & Wellness: Group classes, personal training, nutrition education.
• Swimming & Aquatics: Lessons from toddler to advanced, family swim times.
• Child Care: After-school, preschool, summer programs focusing on development.
• Camps: Day/sports camps emphasizing discovery, skills, and friendships.
• Youth Sports: Soccer, basketball, t-ball, martial arts, Ninja Zone, flag football.
• Youth Programs: Leadership development for teens.
• Adult Sports: Pickleball, basketball, self-defense.
• Community Programs: Outreach like safety classes, chronic disease support, military programs.
• Events: Pancakes with Santa, Santa’s Day Out, news/updates on leadership and initiatives.

Financial assistance available via Annual Giving Campaign for those in need.

Pricing

• Specific rates not detailed on main pages, but described as very affordable.
• Memberships include all amenities (gym, classes, Child Watch); household benefits with reduced program rates.
• Guest passes and 7-day free trials available.
• Financial assistance based on need (funded by donations).
• Service fee: 3% on credit cards (ACH/debit free); $20 NSF fee; $5 lost card replacement.
• No refunds; monthly drafts continuous until canceled (written notice by 25th).
• Program examples: $40/day member camp rate.

Location & Hours

• Three branches + early childhood centers in Huntsville/Madison, AL (e.g., Hogan Family YMCA: 130 Park Square Lane, Madison, AL 35758; phone 256.705.9622).
• Southeast Family YMCA (Huntsville), Downtown Express YMCA (moving to Historic Times Building, 24/7 access planned).
• Hogan Hours (example): Mon-Fri 5am–9pm, Sat 7:30am–6pm, Sun Noon–5pm.
• Holidays: Reduced (e.g., 7am–3pm Memorial Day; closed Easter/Thanksgiving/Christmas).
• View full locations: ymcahuntsville.org/locations.

Notes

• What makes this special: Mission-driven non-profit since 1910, focusing on underserved communities with $1M+ in annual aid. Exited bankruptcy with renewed vision; new leadership (CEO Rob Gray, etc.). Emphasizes Christian principles in inclusive programs open to all. Unique community impact: Voted Rocket City Mom’s Favorite for Youth Sports (2024/2025). Nationwide access, volunteer opportunities, and events build lasting bonds. Saunas/steam enhance wellness alongside robust family/youth focus—ideal for holistic health in a supportive environment.