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Where Are We with the “Fundy YMCA”?
(A message from George Rodgers, YMCA Canada East MRC)
The studies to determine if there can be a sustainable, exciting and health-oriented Fundy YMCA facility, which will meet the expectations from residents and businesses in the local areas, are almost completed. It is very exciting to report that while there is lots of work yet to be done, the results are very encouraging to both the County of Annapolis and the YMCA.
On June 26th, a meeting involving those who participated in an interview process with the YMCA in the spring and Annapolis & Digby County Councils was held at the Annapolis Royal Legion. The purpose of the meeting was to detail the Campaign Feasibility Study results; as well as results from a market study that had been conducted.
The best way to describe the whole study and centre renewal process is “putting together pieces of a difficult puzzle”, so I will break it up as such:
1) The Facility Piece--SOLVED
The Fundy Y can be second to none in Canada – an exciting, functional, attractive (WOW-filled), health fitness recreation centre.
2) The Capital Campaign piece-- WITH HARD WORK CAN BE SOLVED
This may look like hard work but the study indicated how important reopening this centre is to the community; and we did have lots of leaders and gifts identified. This is a big “good news” story involving the community’s need for healthier living initiatives and as a support all other big community service and economic development plans. BUT, government support must be confirmed before starting the Capital Campaign.
3) The Market Penetration/Financial Feasibility Study piece-- SOLVED
The professional study confirmed that with quality professionals, a membership business plan, and facility renovation to the centre it is possible to break even AND meet the expectations and health needs of the community.
4) YMCA Governance piece (ability to come and serve democratically in this community) - IN PROGRESS
While final approval has not been confirmed, YMCA Canada is excited that this “County of Annapolis challenge” may, in fact, help the YMCA find new ways to serve more Canadians across the nation based on the very challenges being encountered in trying to serve your community. What is being learned through this process may actually have been a gift to the YMCA Family in Canada; and while final approval and shared service arrangements are pending, it is almost certain that this will be achieved.
5) Government Support Piece – IN PROGRESS
As the other puzzle pieces are fitting together work can progress in this area. Support from the County of Annapolis is secure and is in place. Digby County has agreed to try to find a way to support the Capital requirements for renewal and reopening. Meetings have been held with provincial and federal politicians with very positive and supportive results. And, meetings have been started with governmental staff with great support being expressed. It is a little late for some stimulus funding but requests could not be made until it was confirmed this was a winning, sustainable project.
The Fundy Y is a phenomenal idea and so urgently needed for health and spirit needs in this area. Together, with this solid plan in place, there is sure to be a way to support and participate in this great community building idea!!
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