The boards of directors of the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley and the YMCA of the Upper Main Line have united into one new regional association – the YMCA of Greater Brandywine.

Denise Day, president and chief executive officer of the organization, made the announcement to members on June 6.

“Over the past year, the YMCA of the Brandywine Valley and the YMCA of the Upper Main Line have been exploring ways to increase our impact on the people and communities we serve in Chester County,” she said.  “We started by sharing resources and services as the first step toward full merger.”

The YMCA branches involved in the merger are:  Brandywine in Coatesville; Jennersville in West Grove; Kennett Area in Kennett Square; Lionville Community in Exton; Octorara Program Center in Atglen; Oscar Lasko Youth Program Center in West Chester; Upper Main Line in Berwyn; West Chester; and the Y at Great Valley in Malvern.

“The joining of our two strong associations will have a positive impact on our branches, our members and our community,” Day said.  “Through a regional collaboration, we will increase opportunities to expand and strengthen Y programs and services, particularly in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.”

The merger will be formalized in a vote on June 18. The Y has a transition web page set up for further information.

“Building on the strengths of our two associations, I am confident that we can provide our members with the highest-quality Y experience and make a lasting, positive impact in our community,” Day said.