In 1909, a capital campaign to build the Downtown Y was led by James Ashdown. 250 canvassers raised $354,000 in only seven days from 4,380 local citizens.

The Downtown Y at 301 Vaughan Street was designed by Jackson and Rosencrans of New York, with local architect J. H. G. Russell working as an associate on the project. James Ashdown, the former Mayor of Winnipeg and prominent businessman, laid the cornerstone in 1911 and the doors officially opened in May 1913.

This building was designated as a heritage building by the City of Winnipeg in 1985, and has been an important part of the downtown landscape and community for 110 years!  

In 1992, The Downtown Y was carefully renovated and received a Heritage Winnipeg Conservation Award for efforts to preserve heritage features.

The original amenities at 301 Vaughan St included a residence, gym, pool (nicknamed 'the plunge') plus 6 bowling alleys, a barber shop, kitchen and dining rooms, club rooms and a billiard room. Services were focused on the needs of the time for young men. However, the Y has continually adapted over the years to meet the needs of the community, including serving as unofficial headquarters for army men when the First World War began.

Women were integrated and given access to the athletic facilities in the 70s and by 1987 the YMCA and the YWCA in Winnipeg had amalgamated. The Y adopted a more family-focused, non-denominational approach. 

Today, the Y Downtown welcomes people of all walks of life with health and fitness facilities, child care, mental health services and newcomer services.