Downeast Family YMCA Choses Matt Montgomery as New CEO

The Down East Family YMCA has named Matt Montgomery as its new chief executive officer, effective September 1st. In his new role, Montgomery will be responsible for overseeing the Y’s Ellsworth, Blue Hill and Bucksport operations and furthering the organization’s mission to build strong communities throughout Hancock County.  

Montgomery will succeed longtime former CEO Peter Farragher, who retired January 31st. 

“On behalf of the DEFY Board of Directors, we are excited to welcome Matt as our new chief executive officer after an extensive national search,” said Board President Andy Odeen. “Matt’s passion for the Y, deep understanding of our mission, and proven leadership as the branch manager in Blue Hill and in our aquatics program make him a perfect fit for the role. The board looks forward to an exciting new era of the Down East Family YMCA under Matt’s leadership.”  

“I am excited to take a new role with the Down East Family YMCA, leading an amazing team of staff and volunteers,” Montgomery said. “I look forward to helping strengthen the Y's impact on all of the communities we serve throughout Hancock County. The Y plays a vital role in the overall health of the area, and our team will continue to ensure that we remain focused on the rapidly changing needs of our communities.” 

 Montgomery has worked as branch executive at the Blue Hill YMCA since October 2020, and he helped launch the facility which was gifted to the community by the Lawrence Family Foundation. Under his leadership, the Blue Hill branch has exceeded its financial and membership goals each year. Overall, Montgomery’s career with the Down East Family YMCA spans 24 years. He started as a swim coach and instructor before moving his way up through the organization as aquatics director, then membership and marketing director and finally his current post at the Blue Hill Y prior to being named CEO.   

Head swim coach since 2000, Montgomery has been a familiar figure on the pool deck, proudly watching the DEFY Dolphins earn both state championship honors and recognition for good citizenship. He serves as the coaches’ chair on the Maine Swimming Board of Directors.  

“The YMCA was the first place my wife and I went to when we moved to Maine 25 years ago,” he said. “Working at the YMCA was the best way to get to know the community.  The YMCA is where we've raised our family, starting with childcare, through swim lessons, youth sports, summer camp and more. It's had an unbelievable influence on our lives, and as an employee, I've seen the incredible impact it's had on thousands of people throughout our communities.” 

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