![[YMCA of Greater Spartanburg LOGO SQ]](https://recliquecore.s3.amazonaws.com/imgs/ymca_logos/named_y/blue_purple.png)
![[YMCA of Greater Spartanburg LOGO FULL]](https://s3.amazonaws.com/recliquecore/imgs/ymca_logos/named/blue_purple.png)
WELCOME TO POLK COUNTY
In 2020, Polk County Government approached the YMCA to explore a partnership to operate the Recreation Department and manage future facilities. By March 2021, the YMCA entered into an agreement with the county to oversee operations at Gibson Park Pool, run summer day camps, and coordinate youth and adult sports and other recreational activities.
Later, in June 2021, the YMCA signed a lease agreement with the Polk County School District to use Stearns Gym for year-round recreational programming. This partnership has expanded opportunities for families and youth, offering sports, childcare, and seasonal events in a space that continues to serve the community.
Today, Stearns Gym continues to serve as a hub for recreation and community programs in Polk County. Built in 1935 as part of Stearns High School, the gym remained active even after the school closed in 1988, transitioning into a public facility managed by Polk County Parks & Recreation. Its continued use reflects the vision of Frank Stearns, whose dedication to education and civic life helped shape the community.*
*footnote: Source: “Stearn’s School Building,” The Clio, accessed August 11, 2025, https://www.theclio.com/
Year-Round Programming at Polk County YMCA
Polk County YMCA at Stearns Gym offers seasonal programs that bring people together through sports, childcare, and special events.
Here’s what we offer throughout the year:
January – February
Youth Basketball
Afterschool Childcare
March – May
Youth Baseball
Youth Soccer
Afterschool Childcare
June – July
Flag Football
Summer Day Camps
Gibson Park Seasonal Pool:
Open Swim, Swim Lessons, Pool Parties, Group Rentals
August – September
Youth Baseball
Youth Soccer
Afterschool Childcare
October – December
Youth Volleyball
Youth Flag Football
Afterschool Childcare
Breakfast with Santa
