‘We loved our time as a YMCA, but now this belongs to us.’ Officials at the former YMCA say they’re excited about the future after rebranding in early January.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Formerly known as the YMCA, the Corpus Christi Community Center has rebranded itself — and officials say they’re excited for what comes next.

Estevan Guerra, President and CEO for Corpus Christi Community Center, told 3NEWS that the change came about after issues with the YMCA developed in 2024. 

“The National Organization of the YMCA came in to do a walkthrough,” Guerra said. “During that time, we completed a long list of required improvements — new floors, ceilings, building new walls and doors that didn’t exist before.”

Guerra said his team was thrilled when they completed the required facility upgrades ahead of schedule. Then the YMCA informed them of new expectations for increased funding and community investment in the gym. The latter requests seem to have been the breaking point for local management. 

“One of the decisions we made was to disassociate from the national organization,” Guerra said. “In that process, we decided we didn’t want to close our doors. This organization is far too important — it has an 86-year history in this community. We serve so many kids, families, and members across the area.”

After consulting with board members and stakeholders, the organization rebranded as the Corpus Christi Community Center and was officially recognized by the state in December.

“The best part is that all proceeds earned here will stay in the community — nothing is leaving,” Guerra said. “We own our logo and our identity — this is a center for the community, by the community.”

Guerra said he’s excited for the change, but ensured his team did everything they could to guarantee a seamless transition for his gym’s loyalists.

“Everything stays exactly the same for our members,” he said. “We wanted this to be a seamless transition. We loved our time as a YMCA, but now this belongs to us.”

The CCCC will continue to host camps for individuals of all ages. Guerra said registration for Spring Break is already open.

“It’s affordable, safe childcare,” Guerra said. “Whenever CCISD or other schools are on break or in service days, we usually offer camps here. We also have adult programming — noon basketball, drop-in pickleball — and more coming soon.”

With the new name in place, and tradition still helping guide the way, Guerra said the next step is building support for the future.

“Since we’re a brand-new organization, we’re also launching our Founding Donors Campaign,” he said. “Businesses or individuals who want to invest in the community and help start a new chapter for this organization — now is the time.”

Naming rights for the building and some facilities are also available. 

“If you want to leave a legacy in Corpus Christi, this is a great opportunity.”

To reach out to officials at the Corpus Christi Community Center, click the link for their website here.Â