Starting tomorrow, Monday, March 4th, the YMCA of Southwest Michigan hopes that at least 1,000 people across the region of Michigan’s Great Southwest will reach into their pockets and come up with $25 each. If they do, the proposed new $3-million capital expansion project for the Niles-Buchanan Branch of the Y will bring about the successful launch for that project, paving the way for a July groundbreaking ceremony.
The Niles-Buchanan branch plans to break ground in July on the $3-million capital expansion project, allowing for building improvements to include a second gymnasium, youth and teen centers, fitness rooms, and additional space for both pre-school and Childwatch programs at the Y.
The goal of the Y’s Changing Lives & Improving Health capital campaign is to provide affordable access to places for children and young people to find positive role models, something to do, and a purpose so they have a clear path to a healthy, productive life.
Jill Haboush is Vice President of Fund Development & Marketing for the YMCA of Southwest Michigan. She says, “Investing in the facility is investing in the future of our community,” and adds, “We believe that positive, lasting personal and social change can only happen when we all work together to invest in our kids, our health, and our communities.”
The Changing Lives & Improving Health capital campaign will kick off its community phase tomorrow, March 4th. During this time, the Y hopes to get members and the community involved to raise $25,000-$50,000 with small-dollar contributions toward the campaign.
Haboush contends, “If 1,000 people each donated $25 to the campaign, we’d reach the $25,000. Such a large goal becomes manageable when you break it down like this.” She reminds everyone, “No donation is too small. Everything adds up to have a huge impact on our community.”
The Y has finalized the layout of the 13,682 sq. ft. expansion, depicted in the photo accompanying this story on Moody on the Market. Construction beginning in July is expected to take six months to complete.
For additional information on the Y’s capital campaign you can visit online at ymcaswm.com or call the Niles-Buchanan YMCA at 269-683-1552.
