The Stronger Together Capital Campaign involves two phases. Phase I includes the Early Learning Center build, while Phase II will include a Downtown Branch rebuild with a physical connection to the new ELC, along with East Branch renovations.
The ELC will include 20,500 square feet.
It will welcome as many as 320 children.
It will be ready to serve children by early fall 2025.
Many little ones have learned and been loved at our current location, which was generously donated to us years ago by Marathon Petroleum Corporation. MPC will be asked first if it would like to reclaim ownership of the building. If not, it will be sold.
No Downtown Branch or street closures will occur during Phase I, although construction equipment may cause traffic delays on Hardin Street. Some periodic branch closures may occur during Phase II, although construction plans have not been finalized.
The YMCA will keep and maintain the house while the ELC is built. Talks will continue due to the site’s potential historic nature.
Absolutely! YMCA leaders have been collaborating with regional businesses, organizations, and government officials to refine campaign goals for optimal community-focused outcomes. For instance, the Y was part of a consortium of organizations, such as Hancock County United Way, that conducted an in-depth study of regional childcare offerings and challenges. The Y is in continuing discussions with entities such as the City of Findlay as it refines Phase II plans.
The Downtown Branch will be rebuilt to better accommodate the members’ and regional needs. It will physically connect to the ELC. The East Branch will also undergo renovations.
No. Phase I and II will be financed through available state and federal grants, along with corporate and individual donations and in-kind contributions.
Our membership cost structure will remain predominantly the same. We are not relying on increased fees to support the project. The project will be financially supported by donations toward construction and in-kind contributions. We’re also hoping that upgraded facilities encourage membership growth to offset continued operational costs.
This option was thoroughly explored by campaign committee and Y board members. Our consultants and architectural firm provided very clear feedback that the existing Downtown Branch has a poor layout, way too much locker room space, racquetball courts that are underutilized, and two pools on separate ends of the facility. If we remodel, we would still