The groundbreaking of the Peter J. King Family Foundation Center for Child and Family Wellbeing, designed by CNH Architects, marked a major milestone for the community in St. Paul. The new 27,000-square-foot facility will feature 12 classrooms, a small gym, a rooftop learning space, and programming focused on arts, STEM, and healthy living.

The YMCA Learning Center was envisioned as a campus-style environment, fostering a sense of connection and community across its spaces. In designing the building, CNH intentionally echoed the materials and aesthetics of the nearby Midway YMCA, creating a visual dialogue between the two while ensuring this center maintains its own distinct identity.

The material palette was chosen to convey a sense of stability, endurance, and security—qualities that reflect the YMCA’s long-standing commitment to the families it serves. At the same time, the colors and textures throughout the building were selected to evoke diversity, youthfulness, and playfulness, celebrating the vibrant energy of the children and educators who bring the space to life.

Above all, this center was designed to be a neighborhood fixture—a landmark that stands as a symbol of the YMCA’s dedication to service, learning, and community growth.

The celebration brought together community leaders, donors, and city officials for a meaningful program that highlighted the vision behind the project. 

Speakers included:

• Michelle Edgerton, EVP of Advancement/CAO, YMCA of the North (Welcome & Closing Remarks)
• Glen Gunderson, President & CEO, YMCA of the North
• Richard Schulze, Founder, Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation
• Russell King, President, Peter J. King Family Foundation (Time Capsule Presentation)
• Mayor Melvin Carter, City of Saint Paul

In tandem with the groundbreaking, the Midway YMCA was officially renamed the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation Midway YMCA in honor of Schulze’s deep roots in the neighborhood and his enduring support of the YMCA. A Central High School graduate and founder of Best Buy, Schulze has made significant contributions to YMCA initiatives both locally and across the country.