The Marion Family YMCA announced plans to conduct a $2 million capital campaign to increase its impact in youth development and healthy living. The campaign will raise funds to reduce the current building debt and to help with needed improvements to the Y.
Organizers said that both debt reduction and facility improvements will allow the YMCA to put resources towards programs and services that help youth develop their full potential and individuals and families improve their well-being.
The effort is being directed by a Campaign Cabinet consisting of Larry Babich and Karen Ream (Co-Chairs), CJ Assent, Jackie Concepcion, Therr Nowlin, John Scharer, Debby Shade, Gary Sims, Chris Truax and Theresa Lubke.
The announcement of the campaign came at a dinner recently held for the campaign leadership that included the board of directors, the board of the Marion YMCA Perpetual Fund, Inc., YMCA staff and campaign leadership. At the dinner, it was announced that the “Leadership Gift Phase” had received 100% support and the leadership pledged $254,000 which is 12.5% of the overall $2 million goal.
John Scharer, board president and chair of the Leadership Gift Phase of the campaign told those attending the dinner that he is extremely happy that the YMCA’s leadership surpassed its goal.
He added, “It demonstrates to the community those closest to the YMCA support this tremendous endeavor; one that will have a great positive impact on all the youth, families and seniors within our area.”
The campaign is divided into four phases: Leadership Gifts, Advance Gifts, Major Gifts and Community Teams. The Leadership Gifts Phase is complete and the cabinet is now concentrating on the next phase, Advance Gifts.
In support of the capital campaign two additional gifts were announced at the Leadership Dinner. The Marion Community Foundation awarded a grant of $75,000 during the 2015 – 2016 grant cycle with the intent to give an additional $175,000 over the next five years for a total gift of $250,000.
Dean Jacob, CEO & President of the Marion Community Foundation said, “Through this contribution, Marion Community Foundation is pleased to continue our longstanding support of the YMCA’s efforts to improve the health and wellness of our community’s citizens. For more than 100 years, the YMCA has provided essential programs for children, families, individuals, and seniors in Marion. Marion Community Foundation believes the YMCA and its programs are part of the fabric of Marion’s commitment to good health and this campaign is worthy of our community’s support.”
The Marion YMCA Perpetual Fund, Inc. also announced a gift to demonstrate its support.
“The YMCA is a great asset for our community. The leadership team at the Y is strong, and with a successful capital campaign the Y will be a tremendous resource for generations to come. The
Perpetual Fund is pleased to pledge $150,000 to the campaign,” said Spencer Mathews, President of the Marion YMCA Perpetual Fund.
The funds raised during the campaign will help reduce the capital debt, which will result in the YMCA having the opportunity to provide additional programs and services. It will also assist in potentially upgrading the facility. Improvements may include adding a community walking track and youth sport fields, remodeling space on the second floor to provide additional health and wellness space and upgrading the building heating, ventilation and cooling systems. Reducing the debt and making these changes will enable the YMCA to expand the number and variety of programs it offers.
“Our board of directors and staff are committed to expanding our impact in Marion. We envision the Y’s future to include preparing more children for success in school; developing self-confidence, team work and leadership among more youth and teens; and helping more people improve their well-being,” said Theresa Lubke, Executive Director.
The capital campaign, which began in November, is scheduled to conclude in May of next year.
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