New River YMCA
For nearly a decade, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside the leaders of the New River YMCA as they petitioned for a charter, opened a “baby Y," and transformed it into a full-scale, community-rooted wellness facility that will open its doors later this year. Seeing this story featured in Onslow Business is more than a milestone—it’s a testament to what steady vision, local leadership, and intentional philanthropy can build together.
Since 2017, this project has embodied the very heart of community investment:
• A bold commitment to health and belonging in Onslow County
• A leadership team—Charlie Myers, Nichole Lovejoy, and their board—who believe in what the Onslow community deserves
• A capital vision grounded in sustainability, ensuring the Y can serve families for generations
• A community of partners and donors who are stepping forward to make a debt-free facility possible
Watching this branch of YMCA of the USA grow from an idea into a $20.5M wellness hub—with expanded space, new pools, and mission-driven programming—has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my work at Intentional Charity. This is what happens when #philanthropy is not just about dollars, but about trust, partnership, and shared purpose.
To the New River YMCA team: thank you for letting me be part of your story. Your persistence, courage, and community-first leadership are building far more than a facility—you’re building generational advancement.
And to every local leader, donor, and volunteer who has invested in this vision: this is your win. Here’s to the grand opening ahead—and to the generations who will thrive because of it.
