Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA

Woody Blossman chartered the Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA in December, 1975, with a love for children and the backing of some local businessmen. Blossman, then Chairman of Blossman Gas Company, had once witnessed the death of a child by drowning, and he wanted to do all he could to prevent it from happening to another child.

The YMCA opened in the former Marmin pool building with a staff of three. Since that day, the YMCA has steadily grown, with not only swimming lessons, but a diverse selection of classes and activities from which the whole community can benefit. Every day, the Mississippi Gulf Coast YMCA helps children and youth to deepen positive values, their commitment to service and their motivation to learn.

Youth organization in Ocean Springs, Mississippi