YMCA of Western North Carolina Names New President and CEO

The YMCA of Western North Carolina is excited to announce the selection of Tim Blenco as our new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective Dec. 1, 2025.

Blenco is currently the YMCA of WNC’s chief operating officer, a role he has held for 10 years. During his tenure, he oversaw the opening of YMCA Camp Watia, the Ferguson Family YMCA, and the Black Mountain YMCA. Blenco is a skilled fundraiser and public policy advocate who has helped facilitate the expansion of afterschool programming, deepened partnerships with local governments, and launched several evidence-based chronic disease programs. 

 “We are thrilled to welcome Tim Blenco as our new president and CEO,” said John Pierce, chair of the YMCA Board of Directors. “He has been a key part of the success of our YMCA, and was the best candidate out of 250 applicants for this desirable position. Throughout the search process, it was clear to us that his passion for service, commitment to the Y mission, and ability to inspire teams align perfectly with our Y’s values and vision for the future.”

As President and CEO, Blenco will oversee the strategic and operational direction of the nonprofit YMCA, which serves more than 100,000 members and program participants annually across fitness, childcare, camps, and other community benefit programs.

“I’m honored to continue the YMCA of Western North Carolina’s legacy of service,” said Blenco. “The Y plays such an important role in creating opportunity and belonging for all, and I look forward to working with staff, donors, members, and community partners to build on that impact.”

Blenco succeeds Paul Vest, who is retiring from the YMCA after 40 years of service, nearly 30 of which have been spent leading the YMCA of WNC.