YMCA capital campaign reaches 90% of $2 million goal

Artist rending of planned Outdoor Community Track.

On July 11, 2016, the Marion Family YMCA announced they have so far raised 90% of their $2 million WE’RE HERE FOR GOOD Capital Campaign goal. The YMCA has commitments of $1,794,077 towards its goal of $2 million.

The YMCA’s capital campaign is raising funds to reduce the current building debt and to help with needed improvements to the facility and grounds.  By reducing the amount of annual debt service, the YMCA says it will put resources towards programs and services that strengthen the community.  Priorities include: Second Grade Learn to Swim program, expanded youth sports, expanded preschool education, Y Diabetes Prevention Program, and expanded teen leadership opportunities.

Although the campaign is ongoing until the $2 million goal is met, the YMCA said it has already experienced positive results of its early success. In May, the YMCA refinanced its remaining $5.6 million debt at a more favorable interest rate and made an extra $100,000 principal payment. This is already freeing up resources and allowing the YMCA to move forward with several of its program priorities.

“We are thrilled to be planning a pilot of the Second Grade Learn to Swim program, expanding our Y preschool and offering the Y Diabetes Prevention Program”, said Theresa Lubke, Executive Director.

“Much of this work was dependent upon a successful campaign, and although we’re still working towards the goal, resources are already available for several program priorities”, she continued.

The YMCA is also moving forward with facility and grounds improvements. Board Vice President, Jon Williamson, is chairing an ad hoc facility and grounds improvement committee. Priorities include an outdoor walking / running track open to the entire community, fitness area improvements, fitness equipment and a second floor restroom. Currently, the committee is working with a budget of $326,000. This is based on 75% of campaign funds (pledged over five years) going to debt reduction, the cost of the conducting the campaign, and remaining funds for facility and grounds improvement.  As the campaign continues, more funds may be proportionately allocated to facility and grounds improvements.

The YMCA’s WE’RE HERE FOR GOOD Capital Campaign has involved over 125 volunteers and so far received pledges from 280 donors.  The campaign is led by a volunteer cabinet of Karen Ream and Larry Babich, Co-Chairs; Gary Sims, Chris Truax, John Scharer, Debby Shade, Jackie Concepcion and CJ Assent.

“The Marion Family YMCA has been strengthening Marion area communities for 124 years,” said Lubke. “Its programs and services focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Each year, the Marion Family YMCA engages approximately 15,000 men, women and children – regardless of age, income or background – to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the community’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors.”

For more information on the YMCA, visit marionfamilyymca.org or call 740-725-9622.