PETERBOROUGH, ON, Jan. 31, 2006 – The YMCA of Peterborough’s Building New
Memories campaign is off to a strong start and is in even better shape following a visit by three local Co-operators agents. Denise Darling, Al Johnson and Rick Johnston presented a $50,000 donation today on behalf of The Co-operators to campaign chair John MacDonald and YMCA CEO Bob Gallagher.
The capital campaign, which kicked-off in October 2005, has already raised 85 per cent of its $3 million goal for community donations. The campaign supports the construction of a new 61,000 square-foot building at an estimated cost of approximately $12 million. Construction of the new facility began earlier this month at 123 Aylmer Street, with a target opening date of early in 2007.
“This community has really stepped up to support a new, modern YMCA we can all be proud of for decades to come,” said campaign chair John MacDonald. “The 17,000 people who visit us each year will benefit from the new Y’s convenient location, improved accessibility and first-rate facilities.”
The YMCA of Peterborough has 6,000 members, with more than 350,000 total visits annually. It provides over $300,000 annually in subsidies to those who cannot afford its services on their own. After 108 years of use, the existing building has reached its capacity and needs to be replaced.
“This campaign is more a marathon than a sprint, but we’ve come a long way. By working together we will get to the finish line – a new Y that everyone in Peterborough can use and enjoy,” said Chris Ross, The Co-operators district manager for the area. “We’re more than happy to do our part to support a healthy, vibrant community.”
With the $50,000 donation, The Co-operators is now recognized as a “Y Leader.” The amount includes equivalent contributions from the three agents, as well as contributions from The Co-operators district, regional and head offices.
