Jim O’Rourke
President and Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of Greater Hartford
Jim O’Rourke was appointed President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Hartford (GHYMCA) in May 2025. A lifelong champion of the Y’s mission to “Belong to Something Greater,” Jim exemplifies servant leadership and a deep commitment to building stronger, healthier communities.
Jim is thrilled to take on this role, leading an association that includes 10 branches and 2 overnight camps, serving more than 68,000 youth and adults across 52 towns in the Greater Hartford region— including Hartford, Tolland, and Windham counties. The GHYMCA is powered by a team of over 1,000 full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees who deliver programs and services designed to strengthen communities.
Prior to joining the GHYMCA, Jim served as President and CEO of the Greater Waterbury YMCA for 17 years. Among the many initiatives Jim has helped grow are: Race4Chase Youth Triathlon Program ; LIVESTRONG at the YMCA ; and Youth Wellness Initiatives.
Beyond his work with the Y, Jim is a respected civic leader and active board member across numerous organizations. He currently serves on the boards of the American Savings Foundation, NVCC Foundation, Post University Sports Management Committee, and the Connecticut and Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs. Jim is deeply embedded in the fabric of the community. From emceeing fundraisers to jumping into Smith Pond in February to raise money for the Y’s Campership Fund, Jim leads by example—always showing up, stepping in, and lifting others up.