The YMCA of Greater Kansas City wrapped up its 165th anniversary year with a meaningful time capsule dedication ceremony on December 3, 2025, at the Kirk Family YMCA. Community members, volunteers and local leaders gathered to reflect on the Y's longevity, resilience and impact - and to send a message of hope to future generations.
Emceed by KMBC 9’s Kris Ketz, who once worked in the same building when it housed the former Lyric Theatre and KMBC studios, the ceremony honored the Y’s legacy of welcoming families, supporting young people, strengthening neighborhoods and bringing people together across generations.
Reflecting on 165 Years of Community Strength
President and CEO Mark Hulet shared how the Y’s mission has evolved since its founding in 1860, when Kansas City was a frontier town.
“Through world wars, social movements, economic swings, and enormous cultural change, the Y adapted and evolved - but our purpose never shifted,” Hulet said. “We strengthen community. We welcome all.”
He highlighted the symbolic nature of the Kirk Family YMCA as the host site, a building where history and modern design meet.
“This building reminds us that history and innovation can live side by side,” Hulet said. “And that is exactly what today is all about.”
Honoring Partnerships and Shared Purpose
YMCA of Greater Kansas City Board member Susan Schaefer, spoke on behalf of JE Dunn Construction, and shared reflections on the partnership and the significance of contributing to a moment that bridges past and future. JE Dunn is a long-time partner that preserved the building’s historic beauty and generously donated the work to bury the capsule in the front steps of the Kirk Family YMCA, and place a new paver and plaque to mark the spot.
Letters to 2060: Hopes, Reflections and Legacy
A central part of the dedication included reading excerpts from letters submitted for inclusion in the capsule.
MAYOR QUINTON LUCAS
Mayor Quinton Lucas shared highlights of his letter, congratulating the Y on 165 years of service and reflecting on the partnership between the City and the YMCA in strengthening neighborhoods, promoting health, and supporting youth development. His message also included hopes for a thriving, united Kansas City in 2060.
DR. ANDREA HENDRICKS
In her letter, Dr. Andrea Hendricks, Chief Volunteer Officer and Board Chair, celebrated the progress made in 2025: “Our primary focus has been on strategic planning, expanding our presence with diverse communities, and strengthening partnerships. Our shared commitment to our mission allowed us to persevere.”
She also offered predictions for 2060, from Y centers elevated in the sky to instantaneous technological tools for learning.
HALLMARK
Hulet shared powerful excerpts from partner letters going into the capsule, including Hallmark.
Hallmark wrote: "For more than a century, Hallmark and the YMCA have shared a deep and meaningful connection to Kansas City. In 1910, our founder J.C. Hall rented a room at the downtown YMCA to launch what would become Hallmark Cards. That spirit of community and possibility continues to inspire us today."
The letter goes on to say:
“For more than a century, Hallmark and the YMCA have shared a deep and meaningful connection to Kansas City… We envision a future where the YMCA remains a place of belonging and progress, helping families flourish and inspiring the next generation to lead with empathy and purpose.”
NEGRO LEAGUES BASEBALL MUSEUM
Hulet also shared highlights from a letter by Bob Kendrick, President of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum. It begins:
“By the time you read this, there is a great likelihood that ‘Ol Bob’ will be long gone. But I wanted you to know why it was important for me to pen my thoughts about the YMCA and its significance to the story of the Negro Leagues."
His letter goes on to detail the rich history of how the Paseo YMCA opened its doors in 1914 during an era of segregation as the result of an amazing joint fundraising effort among the city’s black and white residents. The Paseo Y emerged as the primary meeting place for black social and civic groups, and the Negro National Baseball League was founded there in 1920.
Kendrick wrote:
"The YMCA was a beacon of light during a dark time in America’s past. A century and sixty-five years later, it is still providing opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and walks of life to reach their full potential with pride and dignity.”
What We Preserved
Alongside the letters, several meaningful items representing 2025 were added to the capsule, each reflecting the Y’s impact today and its hopes for the future.
Volunteer-Signed Flag
A flag signed at the 2025 Spirit of Service volunteer recognition event — a tribute to the thousands who give their time to the Y.
“Volunteers built the Y,” Dr. Hendricks noted. “My hope is that it inspires those opening the capsule in 2060.”Cause for Celebration Materials
A program, photos, and a flash drive of images from the 165th anniversary event, capturing the joy of this milestone year.Annual Report
A snapshot of the Y’s impact through stories, numbers, milestones and moments shared throughout the year.Cause Cards
Highlighting the Y’s focus in 2025: Eliminating Drowning, Preventing Hunger, Youth Development, Inclusion for All Abilities, and Belonging for All.Map of Y Locations
Showing the Y’s reach across the Greater Kansas City community.Leadership Lists
Current Board and Foundation Board Members and the Senior Leadership Team — a record of those stewarding the Y in 2025.Summer Day Camp Photos
Representing the future leaders growing within Y programs today.KC Current YMCA Jersey
Symbolizing a growing partnership in youth sports and celebrating women’s professional athletics.“Let’s Go” Stickers
Featuring the 165th anniversary tagline: 165 Years of Impact. 165 Years Ahead.
The ceremony ended with guests gathering for a group photo — the final item placed in the capsule before it was sealed. The capsule will be buried on the front steps of the Kirk Family YMCA, marked with a plaque, to be opened again in 2060 for the YMCA of Greater Kansas City's 200th anniversary.
