About Us
The Core began as a YMCA which opened in September, 2000. A group of volunteers and donors committed to improving the quality of life in Allen County joined forces to renovate and expand the old Allen County High School into a full recreational center. With the support of the Laura Goad Turner Charitable Foundation and many other cheerful givers, the current 40,000 sq.ft. facility was constructed under the oversight of the YMCA of Middle Tennessee and a local board of directors. The mission of the YMCA was to help people of all ages and income levels grow in spirit, mind and body.
In 2014, the YMCA was re-branded as “The Core”. Core: meaning “the most central and important part of something” was selected as a name because it represented the vision of the organization. We want to make a difference in the lives of people and in the community by supporting the values of fitness, family, faith and fellowship.
We seek to support residents of Allen County and its surrounding counties in their efforts to grow and thrive. Learn more about our facilities, location and history!
The Core’s History
The Core’s facility was originally Allen County High School, which opened in 1941. After the consolidation of Scottsville & Allen County Schools in the early 1970s, the facility continued serving Allen County as a middle school and primary center. In 1998, the Allen County Board of Education made the property available for the purpose of becoming a full facility YMCA. Today, the history of the facility and its strong connection to Allen County is still visible with the original inscriptions over the original front entrance and the senior pictures of graduating classes lining the halls.
On Oct. 19, 2000, Steve Turner shared his vision for the facility during the official ribbon cutting ceremony. Today, those “Core” values of Fitness, Family, Faith and Fellowship are ever present.
The Core’s Staff
ERNIE STAFFORD
Executive Director
Ernie Stafford is the biggest supporter of the Allen County community. Ernie has spent many years in service to the community in the school system, and coaching many sports teams. He devotes his life to helping others, whether they ask for it or not. Ernie serves the community in many ways, and has helped many of Scottsville’s youth stay on the right path. Never afraid of hard work, he’ll be the first to help with any projects, and supports his management staff with anything they need. The Core benefits from his sense of purpose and his desire to help make an impact in the Scottsville & Allen County community. Ernie is a graduate of Allen County High School.
ERIN PALK
Membership Director / Childcare Coordinator
Erin Palk is an Indiana native but has come to call Kentucky home. She is a 2001 graduate of Allen County Scottsville High School. Erin loves The Core and the core values it stands on. Being a member of the facility has given her firsthand insights to the many programs and classes that The Core has to offer. Erin has many years of customer service experience and has a desire to help the Scottsville & Allen County community grow and progress.
Cole Neil Arvin
Youth Sports Director / Programs Coordinator
Born & raised in Happy Valley, Pennsylvania, Cole Arvin is a Penn State sports fanatic. After graduating from State College Area High School, he played college basketball (NCAA DIII) at Penn State Altoona (2009-2010). In 2015, Cole graduated Valedictorian from SAE Institute on Music Row in Nashville, TN with an Associate’s of Applied Science Degree in Audio. He’s also earned certifications from New York University in “Hospitality & Tourism” and “Global Sports Management” and is a USA Basketball certified coach. Along with his wife, he’s established Style & Soul, LLC (Inspire Style Soul), built and sold their boutique spa salon on Nashville’s Music Row, and created Dreamss Supplements; a product line of plant based sports nutrition.
REBEKAH GARDNER
Human Resource Director / Childcare Coordinator
Rebekah Gardner has worked for The Core since it was the YMCA of Scottsville & Allen County. She was hired in 1998 as a Human Resource Manager before the facility opened the doors. During her time at The Core, Rebekah’s strong sense of purpose and ability to build consensus among other leaders helped strengthen The Core community, and continues to support The Core’s efforts. Rebekah’s leadership has been equally recognized by her peers and co-workers. She is a graduate of Allen County High School and Western Kentucky University.
KEITH MONGE
Aquatics Director / Personal Training Coordinator / Group Fitness Coordinator
Originally from Puerto Rico, Keith Monge served in the United States Marine Corps from 2001-2017. After moving to Scottsville in 2017, he joined The Core’s staff. Keith’s held many different positions at The Core; personal trainer, group fitness instructor, wellness coach and lead lifeguard. He is honored to be offered the opportunity to lead his community by example.
