GREENVILLE – After more than 12 years with the YMCA of Darke County, and more than 35 total years with the YMCA organization, Sam Casalano has made the decision to retire as the YMCA of Darke County’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective September 9th, 2026.
We express our sincere gratitude to Sam for his dedicated service, commitment and contribution to our YMCA and our community.
We recognize that this leadership transition occurs during a time in which our YMCA is navigating challenging decisions, public discussions, and strong opinions about the direction of certain programs within our community. We understand that change can be difficult, particularly when it involves programs, relationships and traditions that are meaningful to us. We appreciate the engagement of our members and stakeholders and recognize that those conversations reflect the deep care people have for our YMCA and its future.
The Board of Directors is committed to its responsibility to provide appropriate governance and oversight of the YMCA and to act in what we believe are the long-term best interests of the entire organization, while supporting the health and sustainability of its programs.
As we move forward, our focus is clear: stability, transparency, responsible stewardship, and mission.
The YMCA is bigger than any one person, program or moment. For generations, our YMCA has been a place where children grow, families connect, individuals improve their health and well-being, and members of our community find support, belonging, and opportunity. That mission continues.
Our programs and facilities remain open, and our dedicated staff continues to serve members every day. The Board is actively working to ensure a smooth leadership transition and continuity of operations while carefully considering the qualities and vision needed for the YMCA’s next chapter.
Shortly the Board will name an interim CEO who will ensure a seamless continuation of our programs and services as we transition to new, permanent leadership. This transition provides an important opportunity to listen to our community, evaluate, strengthen relationships, and ensure that the YMCA of Darke County is positioned to serve our community effectively and responsibly for generations to come.
We know there may be questions, and we understand the community’s desire for information. At the same time, as a responsible Board and employer, there are certain issues that we must handle with the appropriate confidentiality and respect for everyone involved.
Most importantly, we want our members, employees, donors, volunteers, families, and community partners to know this:
The mission of the YMCA of Darke County remains strong. Our commitment to this community has not changed. We are grateful for the contributions of those who have led and served our organization, and we are confident about the future of our YMCA.
Transitions can mark both the closing of one chapter and the beginning of another, but they also provide an opportunity to begin another with renewed purpose and focus.
We are grateful to this community for its continued trust, involvement, and support as we move forward together.
