The Anaheim Family YMCA has announced a groundbreaking event for its future new facility adjacent to Ross Park on June 29. The proposed project will be an indoor/outdoor community hub that will welcome more than 3,000 residents each week.
The groundbreaking kicks off phase one of the proposed 16,800 square foot two-phase project. The City of Anaheim is providing the 3.8-acre parcel of land through a long-term lease agreement. Phase one will feature two soccer arenas, multipurpose field, outdoor lighting, parking and site improvements. Phase two will include a soccer arena/multisport court, indoor and outdoor gymnasium, climbing walls, teaching kitchen, group fitness room and multifunctional spaces for local residents.
This project continues the historic legacy of the Anaheim Family YMCA, founded in 1911 and currently serving over 7,000 youth and their families in over 50 program sites each day in Anaheim, Cypress, Stanton and La Palma. “This new project will allow us to expand our community impact and provide a place of belonging for local residents of every age,” said Rick Martens, Anaheim Family YMCA President & CEO. “Anaheim is the tenth largest city in California, yet the only one without its own YMCA facility—and it’s time for that to change.”
Groundbreaking on this project is made possible with an initial $2 million of support from Jeff Frieden and Rob Friedman, Disneyland Resort, and Crean Family Foundation. Additional support comes from the Anaheim Family YMCA Board members, the Lloyd E. and Elisabeth H. Klein Family Foundation, and other individual donors. Farmers & Merchants Bank is also an important partner in the project, extending a generous $1 million credit investment to complete phase one of the project.
“After several years of planning, the Anaheim Family YMCA Board of Directors is excited to bring this important community asset to Anaheim,” said Frank Donavan, YMCA Board Chair and Superintendent of Magnolia School District. “This new YMCA facility will provide a tremendous asset to local students and families, and serve as a centralized hub that brings all the Y’s programs together.”
“As a board member, I am thrilled to see this project come to life for the benefit of our residents,” said Jill Bolton, Anaheim Family YMCA Board Member and retired Disney Corporate Citizenship Director. “However, while we have a strong start on fundraising, it is important that we continue securing major support to complete the entire $15.5 million project.”
If you are a local business or individual wishing to show your support, the YMCA will be holding a Community Leaders Reception at the Anaheim House of Blues on June 6. To learn more about being invited to this reception or making a donation, contact Rick Martens at rmartens@anaheimymca.org.
