ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — After Paul Vest, longtime CEO of the YMCA of Western North Carolina, announced his retirement earlier this year, the organization has named a successor. Tim Blenco, current chief operating officer of the YMCA of WNC, will step into the leadership position on Dec. 1, 2025.

Meet Tim Blenco

During his decade-long tenure at the COO of the YMCA of WNC, Blenco oversaw the openings of the Black Mountain YMCA, Camp Watia and the Ferguson Family 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,” the YMCA of WNC wrote in a press release.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tim Blenco as our new president and CEO,” said John Pierce, chair of the YMCA Board of Directors, in the release. “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.”

In bis new position, Blenco will take charge of the future of the YMCA of WNC, which currently serves over 100,000 members and program participants across its fitness, childcare and other community programs.

“I’m honored to continue the YMCA of Western North Carolina’s legacy of service,” Blenco said in the release. “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.”