Sarasota City Y is a Vital Part of the Community

“The Y is one of my first loves,” said Paul Raker, Vice President of Operations for several YMCA of Southwest Florida branches, including Sarasota City. He grew up inside his local Y—learning to swim, playing baseball and even sneaking in as a teen. At 17, he took his first job as an after-school counselor, and he never left. This past Labor Day marked his 20th year as a YMCA employee.

It’s that kind of lifelong connection—the feeling that the Y is home—that Raker hopes every Sarasota resident can experience.

Many don’t realize that each YMCA is shaped by the community it serves. When the future of the Sarasota Y was uncertain, it was local residents who rallied to save it. Because of that, today’s Sarasota City Y is more than a fitness center. It’s a place built by neighbors, for neighbors.

“We start programming for youth as early as six weeks, and we have folks who are 90 and above coming through our doors,” Raker said. “There truly is something for everyone.”

While the YMCA focuses on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, its greatest strength is the sense of belonging it creates. Families gather on the lawn for Starlight Cinema movie nights. Children learn bicycle safety at the Bike Rodeo, often riding home on donated bicycles and helmets. Parents enjoy a night out while their kids play safely during Parents’ Night Out. And on any given day, members linger in the lobby chatting, playing cards and connecting. Here, friendships form as easily as fitness goals.

The Y also steps up in moments of need. After hurricanes and other disasters, the Sarasota Y opens its doors to anyone who needs a charge, a shower or a safe place to regroup—reminding the community that the Y is more than a building.

It’s also where many local teens get their start. Leadership programs help young people grow into camp counselors, lifeguards and future community leaders. And thanks to scholarships funded by donors and partners, no one is turned away due to financial limitations.

Looking ahead, exciting growth is underway. With an expanded campus, Sarasota City will launch homeschool enrichment programs, double summer camp enrollment, expand out-of-school care and offer new activities. Both Sarasota City and Palmer Ranch have also completed full wellness floor renovations.

You can make a difference and support the Sarasota City Y and Palmer Ranch Y by becoming a member, donating toward scholarships and programming, volunteering or attending the upcoming Casino Royale Evening fundraiser on January 31, 2026.

“We’re rooted in this community,” Raker said. “And we’re committed to growing with it.”