It’s always good to see organizations work together for the greater good — and that’s exactly what’s happening right now on both sides of the Ohio River.

As the J.B. Chambers YMCA in Elm Grove undergoes major renovations, the Martins Ferry Recreation Center is stepping in to help ensure opportunities to stay active don’t skip a beat.

For the next three months, the Wheeling YMCA will run several programs at the rec center — including senior fitness classes, adult evening workouts, and a youth basketball skills and drills clinic led by former college player Asia Roby. It’s a smart, practical way to keep programming going while construction at the YMCA continues.

The partnership is more than a temporary fix — it’s a reminder of how collaboration can keep a region moving forward, even when one facility is dealing with a major upgrade.

Wheeling YMCA Executive Director Adam Shinsky and Martins Ferry Mayor John Davies both spoke to the importance of this effort — particularly for seniors during the colder months, when fitness opportunities are limited. Affordable pricing and ongoing financial assistance for families ensure these programs remain accessible to everyone.

And when the Wheeling YMCA’s expanded, state-of-the-art facility reopens in January, this partnership will have kept the community connected and active during the transition.

As Davies said, “They’re helping us and we’re helping them.”

That simple idea — neighbors working together — is what makes the Ohio Valley strong. This collaboration is a win for Martins Ferry, a win for the Wheeling YMCA, and most importantly, a win for our communities and the people both organizations serve.