YMCA to Operate Julia & Nicholas Runnebohm Early Learning Center

New Partnership Expands Access to High-Quality Early Childhood Education in Shelby County

Shelbyville, IN – A visionary project years in the making, the Julia & Nicholas Runnebohm Early Learning Center (ELC) opened its doors in December 2024 to provide more families in Shelby County with access to high-quality early childhood education. Bright Horizons played a critical role in launching the center, creating a nurturing space for children to grow, learn, and thrive.

As the center looks toward long-term sustainability and community-rooted leadership, Early Learning Shelby County is proud to announce that the Decatur Shelby County YMCA will assume full operational responsibility for the Julia & Nicholas Runnebohm Early Learning Center by September 1, 2025.

The YMCA is uniquely positioned to lead this next chapter, with a strong foundation both locally and nationally in early childhood education. Since opening the Shelby County YMCA in 2021, we have rapidly expanded our impact—now serving more than 6,900 individuals in Shelbyville alone. Early learning is not new to the Y; in fact, it’s central to their mission. As the nation’s largest nonprofit provider of early childhood education, the Y brings deep expertise in helping children thrive and supporting working families.

“This is an incredibly exciting moment for our YMCA and for Shelby County,” said Mackenzie Pickerrell, CEO of the Decatur Shelby County YMCA. “We are deeply committed to delivering high-quality early learning experiences that prepare children for school and life while giving working families the peace of mind they deserve. The Y exists to strengthen communities—and this is a powerful way we can do just that.”

The center will serve up to 192 children from 6 weeks to 5 years old, focusing on social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development in a safe and supportive environment. The YMCA is actively finalizing licensing, hiring, and facility preparations, with a full transition planned by September 1, 2025.

“Early Learning Shelby County is thrilled to see the Y step into this role,” said Todd Hitchcock, Board Chair of Early Learning Shelby County. “The YMCA’s strong track record in early childhood education and its local presence make them the ideal partner to carry this vision forward for our families.”

Community members can expect enrollment updates and upcoming open house events over the next few months. The Y will also host employer briefings and family nights to introduce the center and foster connection.

To enroll your child or learn more about the program, visit https://shelbycountyymca.org or contact the Shelby County YMCA at 317.398.5230.

Support Access for All
The YMCA is launching a new scholarship fund to help families who may not qualify for public assistance but still face financial barriers. Businesses are also invited to join as corporate partners—helping subsidize tuition for their workforce and supporting long-term community success.

For partnership inquiries or to contribute to the scholarship fund, contact Mackenzie Pickerrell at mpickerrell@dscymca.org or 317.398.5230 ext. 3110.