YMCA ANNOUNCEMENT
We are thrilled to share a historic announcement with our YMCA family: the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing’s Westside Branch will officially be renamed the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA in honor of Lansing native, NBA Hall of Famer, business leader, and philanthropist Earvin “Magic” Johnson.
The announcement was unveiled during The Legacy of Magic Gala, a special celebration hosted by the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing as we approach our 150th anniversary. The event celebrated Magic’s legacy, the Johnson Family’s commitment to Lansing, and the YMCA’s mission of strengthening our community. The gala raised over $800,000, which will support scholarships and facility improvements across all YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing locations.
We are deeply grateful to the Johnson Family for choosing the YMCA as their Legacy project. The Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA is a meaningful tribute to a remarkable individual and family whose contributions have made a lasting difference in our community. More than a name on a building, this YMCA represents the power of community and the enduring impact of the Y as a place where families and neighbors come together to build connections, improve health and wellness, and create a stronger future for generations to come. For nearly 150 years, the YMCA has been a trusted gathering place, and this Legacy project carries that mission forward.
The transformation of the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA will include exciting improvements designed to expand opportunities for our members, families, and community. Plans include:
- A 2-acre expansion
- Two additional sport courts
- Two new turf fields
- An acre of green space to expand youth programming
- A new pavilion
- A mural honoring Magic and the Johnson Family by local artist Dustin Hunt
In addition, a sustaining legacy fund will be established in the Johnson Family’s name to help provide YMCA scholarships and ensure that future generations of Lansing youth have access to life-changing programs and experiences.
Thank you for being part of the YMCA family and for helping us celebrate this extraordinary moment in our history. Together, we are celebrating our legacy and building our future.
To learn more and support the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA, visit legacyofmagic.org.
