LANSING, MI — The YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing has announced the official name change of its Westside Branch to the Earvin “Magic” Johnson YMCA, in honor of the NBA and MSU icon, business leader, and philanthropist born and raised in Lansing.
The first-of-its-kind recognition in Lansing for the NBA Hall of Famer was unveiled during The Legacy of Magic Gala, hosted by the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing, to celebrate Johnson and the his family’s lasting impact on Lansing and the YMCA as the organization approaches its 150th anniversary. According to a press release, the event raised more than $800,000.
Plans for the newly named YMCA include a 2-acre expansion with two additional sport courts, two new turf fields, an acre of green space to expand youth programming and a new pavilion. The exterior of the facility will include a mural honoring Johnson and the Johnson Family.
“We are grateful to the Johnson Family for choosing the YMCA as their legacy project,” said Casey Thompson, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Lansing. “The Earvin ‘Magic’ Johnson YMCA not only recognizes a remarkable person and family who have done remarkable things for our community, but it also embodies the power of community and the lasting impact of the YMCA as a place where families and neighbors have connected through health and wellness for nearly 150 years and counting.”
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