Efforts to raise $12 million toward the New Y began in 2007.
TRAVERSE CITY -- The Traverse City YMCA hopes to break ground this spring on the construction of a planned 85,000 square foot community recreational building.
In five months time, more than 600 community donors stepped forward, contributing $4 million in new gifts and pledges. These contributions met the challenge pledge of an anonymous donor, who committed in early-fall to give $2 million, if matched by an additional $4 million in gifts.
Efforts to raise $12 million toward the New Y began in 2007.
"Like many fundraising efforts across the area, we felt the effects of a down market in 2009 and donations slowed dramatically," said Marc Judge, Grand Traverse Bay YMCA Board Chair. "However, as 2010 ended and 2011 began, a group of dedicated volunteers reaffirmed their commitment and reignited the campaign."
Robert and Phyllis Foster, the donors behind the challenge pledge, say they recognized that something dramatic must happen to make the New Y a reality and decided that a challenge would be a great way to encourage donors at all levels.
"This is an investment in the community and we are thrilled to see all of the support the community has shown for the Y," said Rob Foster. "We are thankful for the major gifts and are especially thankful for the people who stretched their own giving abilities and made commitments at any level."
YMCA officials expect to begin the bidding process in the next several weeks.
