CLARION, Pa. (EYT) — Clark Electric in Clarion recognized the importance of a new full-service Clarion County YMCA and decided to be a part of the efforts with a $5,000.00 contribution to the capital campaign.
[Photo: Dick and Carol Clark (center) of Clark Electric; Al Lander and Milissa Bauer (left), co-chairs of the YMCA Campaign; and Jesse Kelley, Clarion County YMCA Director.]
“I just think that Clarion County really needs a boost this is just a very good thing for everybody — young and old — to come together,” said Dick Clark. “It’s just a nice community asset, and we have never really had one, and I say thanks to everybody who put their time and effort into it to get it started. They couldn’t do it without the donations obviously, and the community has really come together big time. Everybody knows how important this is, and it’s really important for Clarion County. That’s why we jumped on board and wanted to see it happen.”
Presenting the gift were Dick and Carol Clark at their Third Avenue business. The business also supports other community activities such as the Little League and the Western School for the Deaf.
“We just wanted to help, and it’s all our hometown,” said Clark. “It’s for the future and helps keep kids here. Fortunately, business is good enough we can donate a little bit. I think this will bring more people into the community and get them involved. If you’re going to move here, it’s nice to know you have a YMCA. Everybody has one, and we’re a little behind the times.”
The campaign has generated $7.5 million in gifts from community members and businesses and a $3 million Pennsylvania RACP (Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program) Grant. An additional RACP grant has been submitted for finishing available childcare space in the new building.
An official groundbreaking is being planned for late spring – early summer and completion of the project is expected within approximately 12 to 15 months from groundbreaking.
The project includes a regional recreation center with a sports field located on a seven-acre tract easily accessible from Exit 62 off Interstate 80 near the Clarion Oaks Golf Course. The new facility will triple the size of the current Y and include a pool, a full-size gymnasium, an indoor track, a wellness center, a weight room, multiple purpose rooms, and locker facilities for men, women, and families.
The new YMCA will include a family warm water pool providing lap lanes, recreation and exercise, swimming lessons, aqua aerobics, and other activities. A rehabilitation partnership will also offer warm water therapy.
The YMCA is still accepting contributions, and for more information about the campaign contact Campaign Communications Coordinator Cindy Nave at 814-226-9722 or clarioncountyymca.org.
