FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Yvette Lippert, YMCA Membership & Marketing
[email protected] 509-490-3905
Yakima Family YMCA Announces Upcoming Retirement
of Chief Executive Officer Bob Romero
Yakima, WA — April 1, 2026 — The Yakima Family YMCA announced the upcoming retirement of its Chief Executive Officer, Bob Romero, effective September 15, 2026, following a distinguished 20‑year career with the organization.
Romero joined the Yakima Family YMCA in 2006 after earlier roles with KIMA-TV, KAPP-TV, the Yakima Bears baseball team and the Yakima Valley Sports Commission. Over two decades, he guided the YMCA through a period of significant growth and transformation. His leadership was instrumental in bringing the YMCA and Yakima Rotary Aquatic Center from concept to completion—a major community asset made possible through grants, private donations, and strong local partnerships. The facility opened to members and the public in November 2019.
Just months after opening, Romero successfully guided the organization through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID‑19 pandemic, ensuring the YMCA continued to serve youth, families, and the broader community during a time of great need.
Beyond his local impact, Romero played a key role in the national YMCA Organization. He helped create and launch a national network of Small and Mid‑Sized YMCAs and served three years as Chair of both the Washington State Alliance of YMCAs and the Pacific Alliance of YMCAs. His advocacy strengthened the voice and visibility of non‑metropolitan YMCAs across the region and the country.
“The Board of Directors is deeply grateful for Bob’s dedication, passion, and leadership over the past 20 years,” said Board President, Kathy Tierney. “We wish him the very best in his well‑earned retirement.”
Romero moved to the Yakima Valley shortly after his graduation from Washington State University. His professional endeavors cover 47 years in Yakima.
In addition to his career work, Romero actively engaged in the community. He has been a Rotarian for nearly 30 years. He served on the tournament committee for all state basketball tournaments held in the Sundome over the past 27 years. He has also served as a youth sports coach, a youth ministry volunteer, a group leader for Bible Study Fellowship and as an emcee for numerous banquets and community events.
The Board of Directors has begun the search for a new CEO committed to building on Romero’s legacy and advancing the Yakima Family YMCA’s mission as it continues to expand youth, family, and community programs in the years ahead.
ABOUT: The Yakima Family YMCA is dedicated to strengthening the community through programs and services that promote healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Serving individuals and families across the Yakima Valley, the Y provides inclusive opportunities for youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Through partnerships, programs, and community engagement, the Yakima Family YMCA remains committed to creating a welcoming space where everyone can grow, connect, and thrive.
