Magnanimous Donors Believe In The Impact Of The Eugene Family YMCA Toward A Thriving Community
The Eugene Family YMCA is honored to announce that several gifts totaling $450,000 are advancing the Capital Campaign for a new Y, which has also met a key architectural milestone: 50 percent completion of the construction documents.
Eugene, Ore., Oct. 21, 2020 - The Eugene Family YMCA is honored to announce that several gifts totaling $450,000 are advancing the Capital Campaign for a new Y, which has also met a key architectural milestone: 50 percent completion of the construction documents.
With the construction document deadline complete, the Y's team at PIVOT Architecture has nailed down major design details. The final design includes a new splash pad in the Aquatics Center; an indoor, circular track above the gym; maker spaces; a nutrition-focused teaching kitchen; and a dedicated cycle studio--- all of which were previously undetermined amenities.
Progress on the new Y in the midst of a global pandemic is possible because of strong support by early visionaries like Larry and Diane Tardie and Steve Stewart, coupled with new supporters like The Sunderland Foundation.
"Progress on a new Y, particularly in such a challenging year, is only possible because of supporters like Larry and Diane Tardie, The Sunderland Foundation and Steve Stewart recognizing the value of YMCA programs and services in Lane County," said Danielle Uhlhorn, Eugene Family YMCA's Chief Development Officer. "We are extraordinarily grateful to these incredibly selfless donors who see the everyday impact of the Y--- especially during a crisis--- and want to help it expand."
Longtime Y supporter Steve Stewart says that a state-of-the-art YMCA facility is critical to a thriving community.
"The Eugene Family YMCA is an ever-present beacon of support and vibrancy for so many people," said Steve Stewart. "I am pleased to be a part of improving the YMCA's facilities and providing an even safer and brighter future for Lane County."
Since the pandemic started, the Y has adapted to the needs of the greater community. This includes offering full-day youth programs, outdoor exercise spaces and live virtual classes.
With the unforeseen crisis of raging wildfires in our community, the Y expanded its traditional support systems to include free child care and free 3-month memberships to those displaced by the fire.
"We are happy to partner with the Eugene Family YMCA as it serves the community in such a myriad of ways," said Larry Tardie. "We've been continuously impressed with the Y's keen response to the pandemic, the current focus on supporting those displaced by the wildfires and the opportunities for future growth with a new facility."
The Sunderland Foundation, started in 1945, is dedicated to investing in construction projects for nonprofit work that seeks to help families in need find healing and assistance, enrich young minds and connect vibrant communities.
"Grants from the Sunderland Foundation help build the places where families in distress find help and healing, where young minds grow and thrive, and where communities come together for celebration and inspiration," said Randy Vance, President and Chief Operating Officer of The Sunderland Foundation. "Our focus on funding brick and mortar projects reflects our unique heritage and provides a necessary source of funding for established nonprofits that need new or improved facilities. The Y's 1955 building is clearly inadequate for the thousands of individuals and families it serves each year."
Steve Stewart's $250,000 pledge, The Sunderland Foundation's $100,000 gift and Larry and Diane Tardie's $100,000 gift moves the Eugene YMCA closer to constructing its new flagship facility on the corner of 24th Avenue and Hilyard Street.
"In a world where no one knows what might come next, the Y stands steadfast for its members and the greater community," said Brian Steffen, CEO of the Eugene Family YMCA. "In the face of a global pandemic, local wildfires or a growing need for quality child care, the Eugene Family YMCA continues to create places where people grow, lead healthy lives, connect, learn and feel at home. We are so grateful that Steve Stewart, the Tardies and The Sunderland Foundation recognize this impact."
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About the Eugene Family YMCA
The Eugene Family YMCA is one of the region's leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Each year across Lane County, the Y engages more than 18,000 people regardless of age, gender, income or background--- to nurture the potential of children, teens and seniors; improve health and well-being; and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. In 2019, the Eugene Family YMCA awarded $464,675 in financial assistance. The YMCA has been serving the Eugene-area since 1887.
Media inquires, please contact:
Eugene Family YMCA
Beth Casper
503-302-8776 (mobile)
beth@eugeneymca.org
