Idaho Falls YMCA among recipients of Greater Idaho Falls Chamber’s Hall of Fame award
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IDAHO FALLS — The Idaho Falls YMCA was named a 2026 Hall of Fame recipient by the Greater Idaho Falls Chamber of Commerce.
It was given the award on Thursday during the chamber’s Hall of Fame Awards Gala. The Hall of Fame award, according to its website, honors local businesses “who demonstrate profitability, fiscal responsibility, adequate (capitalization), and positive contributions to the social and economic well-being of the community.”
Businesses are also chosen because of their commitment to employee development, community outreach and excellence in leadership.
In a news release sent to EastIdahoNews.com, YMCA CEO Tanner Rohne says they’re honored to receive this award.
“This recognition is about more than our organization. It’s a reflection of the generations of families, staff, volunteers, donors, and community partners who have helped shape the YMCA over the past 81 years,” Rohne says. “We’re incredibly proud of our history and grateful to the community that has supported us. This honor inspires us to continue building a stronger Idaho Falls for generations to come.”
YMCA is one of four organizations that received the award. The other recipients were Westmark Credit Union, Kiewit and College of Eastern Idaho. A total of 10 organizations were nominated for the Hall of Fame.
The Chamber also presented its best newcomer and 4 Under 40 awards, which recognize promising businesses and young professionals making a difference in the community. Seven Sisters Closet Revival, Oklo, Rev Motorsports and KidsUnited received the best newcomer award.
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The 4 under 40 recipients were Hunter Bowen with Idaho Central Credit Union, Ryan Joos with Vulpine Marketing, Larissa Pence with Alliance Title & Escrow and Spencer Erickson with Son of Erik Design.
The YMCA serves about 3,000 youths annually through its sports programs, which give children opportunities to develop confidence, teamwork and lifelong skills. It also offers childcare and early education programs to support working families, as well as summer camps, health and wellness programs, and community events.
Its fitness classes, senior activities and community initiatives help residents of all ages stay active and connected.
Building community since 1844
The Idaho Falls YMCA has a history dating back 81 years, but its beginnings across the globe go back even farther. A timeline on its website says that George Williams and 11 of his friends founded the first Young Men’s Christian Association on June 6, 1844 in London, England. It was intended as “a refuge for young men seeking escape from the hazards of life on the streets.”
The first American YMCA was established in Boston, Massachusetts, on Dec. 29, 1851, by retired sea captain Thomas Valentine Sullivan. The marine missionary noticed a similar need for sailors and merchants and wanted to create a safe “home away from home.”
James Infelt, an Idaho Falls Democrat who served two terms in the Idaho Legislature beginning in 1974, founded the Idaho Falls YMCA in 1945. It began as a place for youth programs and community connection. He later founded the YMCA youth camp at Palisades.
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The Idaho Falls YMCA has continued to grow and adapt with the community, becoming an organization that serves thousands of residents each year through youth sports, childcare, summer camps, health and wellness programs, and community events.
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Its Indoor Soccer Complex at 3500 South Ammon Road, which has been in operation for about 20 years, celebrated the completion of new turf installation in September.
Team members attribute the organization’s longevity and success to “the generations of staff, volunteers, board members, donors, and community partners who have helped carry its mission forward.”
“While programs and facilities have changed over the past 81 years, the YMCA’s purpose has remained consistent: strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility,” the news release says.
YMCA staff say the Hall of Fame recognition honors its history as well as its “commitment to making programs and services accessible to the community.”
“Through financial assistance, partnerships, and community support, the organization works to ensure that financial circumstances do not prevent individuals and families from participating,” the news release says. “As the organization celebrates this recognition, it remains focused on ensuring that the YMCA continues to be a place where everyone belongs for generations to come.”