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John
Lawrence introduced our
guest speaker, Mike Walters
who has been involved in
YMCA work for 29 years now.
Mike was involved in the
Strategic Planning process
of the YMCA, part of the
Bridge to the Future
campaign. And has agreed
to stay on as Project
manager for the new Y.
Siobhan Trembley is the
Campaign Fundraising
Director. Noted Rotarians
on the Campaign Cabinet are
John & Lorna Lawrence as
well as Steve & Jenne
Pickard.
Their
Mission: The YMCA is a
charitable organization
dedicated to serving our
community through the
development of all people in
spirit, mind and body.
Their
Vision: The YMCA is the
recognized community leader
in building strong kids,
strong families and strong
communities.
The
YMCA in Chatham began in
1945 & then moved to the
King Street address on
1962. There are 7000 users
each year now. They provide
core services in Membership,
Child development (3 care
centers, 6 school age sites,
& 3 youth employment
initiatives) & Community
Learning & Careers
programs. Everyone is
welcome at the Y, regardless
of who they are, where they
live or what they need.
The new
building is needed as the Y
needs have grown. The
community needs a better
place for kids to hangout,
for families to connect &
the building will provide an
economic stimulus for the
Municipality.
Plans
are being drawn up to
include an aquatic centre
with 2 pools (leisure &
lengths), gymnasium &
aerobics studio, fitness &
conditioning centre,5 proper
change rooms, licensed
childcare space &
multi-purpose rooms for
other programs & community
use.
The
campaign is based on funds
from the YMCA family, a
capital base, provincial &
federal grants & municipal
support. To date & without
much fanfare, they have
achieved $5.225M with a
final goal of $15.75M.
www.Buildingournewy.com
for a Healthier Chatham-Kent
Jim
thanked Mike & Siobhan for
visiting today. Literary
Angels book, “one More Goal”
will be signed & donated in
their honour.
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