Severna Park Community Center Has A New Website

For quite a few number of years this was the website for the Severna Park Community Center.
Content is from the site's 2013-2015 archived pages.

If you have inadvertently ended up here while looking for the Severna Park Community Center go to their current website which is found at:
https://www.spcommunitycenter.org/

Severna Park Community Center 
623 Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd. 
Severna Park, MD 21146 
Phone: 410-647-5843 
Fax: 410-647-8122

Severna Park Community Center

Started in 1995, the Center began as an outreach to the community from Woods Church when it was purchased from the YMCA of Severna Park.

The Center is no longer affiliated with the YMCA, and was renamed The Severna Park Community Center to reflect its openness to all in the community.  SPCC holds is own mortgage and is a non-profit organization supported by an Executive Director and a working Board of Directors comprised of 16 members of the greater Severna Park Community. 

SPCC is a non-membership facility.  You pay only for the program or activity of interest. 

In 1997, through the gracious donations of members of the community and a small amount of county funding, a $6m renovation and expansion began, transforming the corner of Cypress and B&A; Blvd. In Severna Park into a state-of-the-art public recreation and meeting facility. The Severna Park Community Center is the only one if its kind in the area. 

Though the building is complete, SPCC continues fundraising to pay off the cost of the expansion and the remaining construction debt.

Highlights of the campus include:
• 36,000 square feet of meeting and recreation space for public use
• Two pools – one 25-yard competitive and one heated therapy – managed by SPCC Aquatics, home of SPY Aquatics
• Three dance studios, home of the Dance Center of Severna Park
• 6,500 square-foot gymnasium with volleyball and basketball set-ups for use by individuals or organizations
• Three large meeting rooms and two activity/meeting rooms.

The campus also includes the 3,200 square-foot Holy Grounds Youth Center, available for meetings and activities, and a bricked outdoor plaza. All space is handicapped accessible.

All facilities (meeting rooms, gymnasium, Holy Grounds, pools) are available for rent to the public. 

"As a local family who loves pickleball, the new courts at Severna Park Community Center have been a delightful addition. Not only have we enjoyed playing, but we've also relished the opportunity to meet other players. It's been fun sharing tips and sources for pickleball accessories like bags and paddles. These interactions have added a wonderful social aspect to our sporting experience, enhancing the community feel that the center fosters through its diverse range of facilities and programs. It's a great place for both physical activity and community bonding." JoAnne Michaels

Mission & Vision

Mission

To offer programs and activities that enrich and enhance family life, community life and individual development in a Christian environment open to all.

Vision

The vision of the Severna Park Community Center is to become a center of our community -- a place of meeting and ecumenical ministry; a place where social justice is promoted, family life supported, recreation and good health encouraged, art and beauty treasured, and where cross-generational contact is valued.

In serving the Center's neighbors, we will remember the least serviced -- alienated youth, discounted seniors, the needy, the physically and mentally challenged, and those who have either forgotten or never been told they are God's beloved children.

The Severna Park Community Center is committed to the principle of non- discrimination in its programs, policies and practices in a manner consistent with its Christian foundation.  Members of the surrounding community, regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, sex or physical or mental disability, are encouraged to participate in our programs.

We hope the friends and neighbors of the community will join hands to make the vision for the Severna Park Community Center a reality.

Become a "Friend"

The Severna Park Community Center is a private non-profit organization with no membership requirements and is the only privately supported Community Center in Anne Arundel County.  Your generous donations are always appreciated.

Operating Hours

Office Hours:

Monday through Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Building Operating Hours:

Monday-Thursday: 6:00am - 10:30pm
Friday-Saturday: 6:00am - 11:00pm
Sunday: 1:00 - 9:00pm
 

SPCC Planned Closures for 2013

January 1 -- New Year's Day
March  31 -- Easter Sunday
May 27 -- Memorial Day
July 4 -- Independence Day
September 2 -- Labor Day
November 28 & 29 -- Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after
December 24 & 25 -- Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
December 31 -- New Year's Eve

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY:

We are closed during active inclement weather periods when it would be unsafe to be out on the roads. We follow Anne Arundel County Government Office closures (announced via television and radio) for full day building closures.  If Anne Arundel County Government Offices are open, we open as soon as our parking lot and sidewalks are cleared and safely accessible.  Call 410-647-5843, Ext. 104, to check on our opening time and schedule.

Please note that our Aquatics Program may operate on a different schedule.  Call 410-647-5843, Ext. 104.

Announcing

 

Dance Classes for Ages 3 to Adult

Summer Camps 2013

Join us for another summer of fun here at SPCC. We will offer Junior's Junction Camps for Elementary and Middle School Ages with before and after camp options.

• Your campers will enjoy swimming in our indoor pool, time in the gym; art projects; cooking, mission projects; field trips (up to 2 a week); and Fitness/Zumba/Yoga

• Or register in person by completing the forms below and bringing them into the SPCC office.
•  For changes or additions to camp registrations, contact the SPCC office at 410-647-5843, Ext. 202 or 204
•  All camp forms (see below) must be completed and sent into the SPCC office to complete your registration.
• Minimum reservation deposit is $25 plus $225 or $250.
• Payment in full for your summer is due by June 1, 2013, unless you have made different arrangements with the SPCC office.  You will receive a reminder/invoice.

• SPCC Aquatics will offer after camp swim options from 4:30-5:30pm for $35 per week and 4:30-6:30pm for $65 per week.
• Artworks Studios will offer several weeks of after camp art from 4:30-5:30pm; $85 tuition.
• Chelonia Eco-Adventures will offer several weeks of after camp programming from 4:30-6:00pm; $100 tuition
• Financial Futures Now will offer several weeks of after camp programs from 4:30-5:30pm for $45.

• Summer Planning Form (Both Camps)
  Summer Camp Registration Form (Both Camps)
  Health History Form
  Parent Permission Form
  Medication Authorization Form (NEW THIS YEAR -- needed if you send in sunscreen and bug spray)
  Camper Immunization Form

Directions

Severna Park Community Center & SPY Indoor Pools
623 Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard
Severna Park, Maryland 21146
410.647.5843

The Holy Grounds Youth Center
(located next to the Severna Park Community Center)
617 Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard
Severna Park, Maryland 21146

Parking is shared by both buildings. Our personalized brick plaza is between the two buildings.

From Annapolis Using Route 2 / Governor Ritchie Hwy Headed Northbound:

• Turn left at Cypress Creek Road (Stop light).
• Follow Cypress Creek 1-1/2 blocks to Summit Road. 
• Turn right at Summit Road.  Go to the 1st stop sign. 
• Turn left at stop sign and then left again in 1/2 block into the Severna Park Community Center parking lot (marked with a sign at the entrance).
• You may also park in the Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church parking lot and walk down using the stairs or driveway

From Baltimore Southbound Using Route 10 Exit Off Beltway:

• Take exit for Route 10 South off Baltimore Beltway following signs for Route 10 South to Severna Park (You will need to move to the right lanes after merging with Route 100) following to its end at a red light.
• Turn left (south) on Governor Ritchie Highway / Route 2 towards Severna Park
• Turn right at McKinsey Road approximately 1 block to light at B&A; Boulevard.
• Turn left at Baltimore-Annapolis Boulevard (light) and go 1/2 block.
• Turn left into the driveway marked with the sign "Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church".
• The parking lot entrance is located immediately on the right beyond the gray Holy Grounds Youth Center building marked by a sign.
• Additional parking is available by proceeding up the Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church driveway. You may park in the Church's lot and walk down using the stairs or driveway.

From Baltimore Southbound Using I-97:

• Take exit 10 to Benfield Road toward Severna Park
• Follow Benfield Road approx 5 miles to Evergreen Road Stoplight across from the Severna Park High School
• Turn right onto Evergreen Road and follow it to its end at Baltimore-Annapolis Blvd.
• Turn right for 1/2 block on B&A; Boulevard. 
• Turn left at Cypress Creek Road for another 1/2 block.  Turn left onto Summit Road (a sign for both the Severna Park Community Center and Woods Church are located at this road). 
• You may park in the Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church parking lot and walk down using the stairs or driveway.

Leases and Rentals

Is SPCC the right facility for your party, program or event?

SPCC is a multi-use facility and we have many rooms in use at the same time. This can impact our parking lot, create movement within the building, result in sounds coming from surrounding rooms, and even impact the layout of the room (things displayed on walls or storage units added temporarily to a room) We can be a very happy and busy location so please consider this as you plan your party, program or event!

Here are some of the features here at SPCC:

• We provide tables and chairs at no charge up to the number we have available in each room.
• We provide custodial support whenever our Center is open. 
• We have front desk staff to help your guests and participants find your party or event. 
• We provide free internet access in our lounge and in Meeting Rooms 1, 2 & 3 
• We have one portable PA System, one LCD Projector with Cart, one portable projection screen and two TV/VCR/DVD units available for $25 each.
• Smoking is restricted to outside smoking stations. Alcohol may be permitted for certain events on a case-by-case basis.
• We rent in half hour and full hour increments.  Pricing below is given in full hour increments. We separate bookings by 30 minutes to give our Custodian time to clean and re-arrange the room for the next event.
• You will need to reserve enough time in the space for your set-up and clean-up time.  If you provide us with detailed set-up instructions, we will try to have the tables and chairs in place and ready for you to set-up.

Contact the MaryAnn Neal for availability at 410-647-5843, Ext. 303. Normal Center hours of operation are Monday - Thursday from 6:00 am - 10:00 pm. Friday and Saturday from 6:00 am - 11:00 pm and Sundays from 1:00 pm - 9:30 pm.

Pool hours differ so visit www.spccaquatics.org for the schedule.

All programming and rentals are subject to the approval of the Executive Director of the Center. Prices for rooms and terms are effective July 1, 2012.

SPACES AVAILABLE FOR RENT

  You may view details and pictures of any space by clicking on the name. Prices effective July 1, 2012.

tdL52 Dance Studio - Lower Level

NOTE: Room capacity decreases with use of tables -- Banquet Style

More Background On SevernaParkCommunityCenter.com

The Severna Park Community Center (SPCC) stands as one of Maryland’s most distinctive community-focused nonprofit institutions. Located in Severna Park along the Baltimore–Annapolis corridor, the Center has long served as a central gathering place for families, youth, seniors, and individuals seeking programs that support wellness, education, creativity, and community connection. Although the website reviewed here reflects the archived version of the Center’s earlier online presence, it provides a rich window into the Center’s mission, facilities, programs, and cultural importance. Building on those archived materials and adding context from additional research, the following article provides a comprehensive look at SPCC’s origins, governance, offerings, reputation, and role in the community.

History and Founding

The modern Severna Park Community Center began in 1995, when Woods Memorial Presbyterian Church purchased the former YMCA of Severna Park. The goal was to preserve and expand an important community asset rather than see it shuttered. What started as a church-led outreach evolved rapidly into a nonprofit, non-membership community center welcoming all residents regardless of background, religion, or ability.

In 1997, a major phase of expansion and renovation began. This project, costing approximately $6 million, transformed the aging facility into a large, modern campus. The project was funded through community donations, fundraising initiatives, and partial county assistance. The extensive renovation solidified SPCC’s transformation from a former YMCA into a full community recreation and meeting center.

Today, the Center operates independently with its own mortgage and governance structure. It remains deeply rooted in the mission-driven ideals of its early supporters while functioning as a broad-based community institution.

Ownership, Structure & Leadership

SPCC is a private, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. It is not affiliated with the YMCA and does not operate as a membership-driven fitness club. Instead, the Center is an open-access facility where participants pay only for the programs or services they choose.

Leadership is provided by an Executive Director and a Board of Directors made up of community members. The board historically includes leaders from across the Greater Severna Park region, representing a mix of civic, professional, and faith-based backgrounds. This governance model ensures that the Center serves local needs rather than institutional or commercial interests.

The Center also depends on a wide network of volunteers, partners, and community donors. It is the only privately supported community center in Anne Arundel County, which gives it both autonomy and responsibility—requiring ongoing fundraising to sustain operations, maintain the facilities, and pay off long-term capital improvements.

Mission & Vision

The mission of SPCC is grounded in values of service, enrichment, inclusion, and Christian hospitality—while remaining open to everyone regardless of belief. The mission articulates a clear intent:

To offer programs and activities that enrich family life, improve community life, and support individual development in an environment grounded in Christian principles but accessible to all.

Its vision expands on this in several ways:

• SPCC aims to be the heart of the community—a meeting place, ministry hub, and social anchor.

• It promotes recreation, good health, social justice, intergenerational connection, and artistic expression.

• It prioritizes support for underserved groups: at-risk youth, seniors, low-income families, and people with physical or mental challenges.

• It commits to nondiscrimination based on race, creed, national origin, gender, or disability.

This mission-and-vision framework positions SPCC as more than a recreational facility: it is a community-building institution.

Location & Proximity

SPCC is located at:

623 Baltimore–Annapolis Boulevard
Severna Park, Maryland 21146

Because the Center sits close to major Maryland routes, it serves residents of Severna Park, Arnold, Pasadena, Millersville, and even parts of Annapolis and Glen Burnie. The Center’s proximity to the Baltimore & Annapolis Trail also makes it highly accessible for cyclists, walkers, and families visiting nearby parks and schools.

The Holy Grounds Youth Center, a secondary building on the campus, is located adjacent to the main facility and is easily reachable from the shared parking area.

Facilities & Campus Features

The Severna Park Community Center campus includes more than 36,000 square feet of meeting and recreation space. It is known locally for its unusually broad range of amenities, each serving a different segment of the community.

Major facilities include:

Two Indoor Pools

• A six-lane, 25-yard competition pool

• A heated therapy pool used for rehabilitation, arthritis therapy, prenatal classes, senior wellness programs, and adaptive instruction

• Home base of SPY Aquatics, a well-known regional swim program

Dance Studios

Three dedicated studios serve the Dance Center of Severna Park, supporting ballet, tap, jazz, modern dance, and children’s creative movement.

Gymnasium

• 6,500 square feet

• Volleyball and basketball configurations

• Youth leagues, fitness classes, and open-gym availability

Meeting & Activity Rooms

Multiple rooms range from small workspaces to large gathering areas suitable for:

• Corporate meetings

• Scout troop activities

• Birthday parties

• Art classes

• Workshops and seminars

Holy Grounds Youth Center

A 3,200-square-foot building offering:

• Stage space

• Meeting rooms

• Wood flooring

• A large deck

• Space for performances, youth events, and church activities

Outdoor Plaza

A bricked plaza between buildings features personalized engraved bricks—a community-supported addition that also contributes to fundraising.

All spaces are fully handicapped accessible, aligning with SPCC’s commitment to inclusivity.

Programs, Activities & Menus of Services

SPCC’s programs serve nearly all ages and interests. Historically, core offerings have included:

Aquatic Programs

• Youth swim teams

• Swim lessons (infant through adult)

• Water fitness

• Therapy and rehabilitation swimming

• Lifeguard certification classes

Dance Programs

The resident dance school offers:

• Ballet

• Tap

• Jazz

• Lyrical

• Modern dance

• Preschool dance classes

• Adult dance and conditioning

Youth Summer Camps

The long-running “Junior’s Junction” and middle school camps include:

• Swimming

• Gym activities

• Field trips

• Art projects

• Cooking

• Mission and service projects

• Yoga, fitness and Zumba

Community Events

These vary yearly and have included:

• Holiday celebrations

• Local fairs

• Fundraising galas

• Health and wellness workshops

• Teen events at Holy Grounds

Facility Rentals

Many families and organizations use the Center for:

• Birthday parties

• Receptions

• Meetings

• Rehearsals

• Performances

• Athletic events

SPCC also offers rental of AV equipment, projectors, screens, and a portable PA system.

Popularity & Community Impact

The Severna Park Community Center is widely regarded as a pillar of local life. Several factors contribute to its popularity:

• Inclusive access: No membership model means anyone can participate.

• Central location: Positioned at the heart of Severna Park.

• Trusted programming: Especially strong aquatics and youth programming attract families year-round.

• Affordability: Programs are designed to be community-friendly, with scholarships often available.

• Longstanding reputation: Many families have been connected to SPCC’s swim programs, dance studios, or camps for decades.

• Community-first leadership: Board members and donors are directly tied to the area.

Local online forums, neighborhood groups, and community reviews consistently highlight the Center as a welcoming, safe, and positive place for children, teens, and seniors.

Cultural & Social Significance

SPCC plays a unique role in Anne Arundel County:

• It serves as a nonprofit alternative to commercial gym chains and private swim clubs.

• It offers an intergenerational environment, especially meaningful in regions where social divisions can exist between age groups.

• Its mission places emphasis on social justice, inclusion, and care for underserved populations.

• It functions as a neutral community space where civic groups, churches, artists, youth leaders, and nonprofits collaborate.

• For families struggling with childcare, special needs, or adaptive fitness needs, the center has historically filled critical gaps.

The Center’s Christian heritage remains an anchor, but its culture is explicitly inclusive and welcoming, making it a rare regional institution that blends faith-inspired leadership with broad community accessibility.

Reviews, Reputation & Public Perception

Archived and contemporary comments from community members consistently emphasize:

• Friendly and supportive staff

• Clean, well-maintained facilities

• High-quality swim instruction

• Safe and supervised environment for children

• Program affordability

• Flexible facility rental options

• A genuine sense of community belonging

Parents of swimmers, dance students, and summer campers are especially vocal in their support. Many note that their children “grew up” at SPCC.

Press & Media Coverage

The Center has been covered over the years by:

• Local Maryland newspapers

• Regional parenting magazines

• Anne Arundel County community bulletins

• Church-affiliated newsletters

• Local TV stations highlighting summer camps or aquatics programs

Stories typically focus on major renovations, community events, fundraising efforts, and youth achievements in sports and dance.

Goals & Future Development

From the archived content and the ongoing work of SPCC, several long-term goals are evident:

1. Maintaining financial independence by paying down construction debt.

2. Expanding programs to adapt to modern fitness, wellness, and youth-development needs.

3. Improving accessibility to support individuals with disabilities and seniors.

4. Strengthening partnerships with local schools, nonprofits, and churches.

5. Preserving the community-centered mission during expansion efforts.

The Center’s leadership has historically balanced practical operational needs with a long-term vision of social impact.

The Severna Park Community Center is far more than a recreation facility—it is a thriving community anchor supported by decades of local commitment, volunteerism, and nonprofit stewardship. Its extensive facilities, mission-driven programming, and longstanding reputation make it a vital part of life in Severna Park and the surrounding region.

From its origins as a church-led initiative to its role today as a comprehensive community hub, SPCC stands as a model of local engagement, inclusive values, and sustainable nonprofit leadership. It continues to enrich the lives of children, families, and individuals every day and remains one of the most significant community assets in Anne Arundel County.