Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva secured $5 million in the California State Budget for the Anaheim Family YMCA. Last week, they celebrated the groundbreaking of their facility and outdoor complex, adjacent to Betsy Ross Park in Anaheim. This project continues the historic legacy of the Anaheim Family YMCA, currently serving over 7,000 youth and their families in over 50 program sites each day in Anaheim, Cypress, Stanton and La Palma. The indoor and outdoor community hub will welcome more than 3,000 residents each week.
“As a teacher of over 20 years, I know the importance of community organizations like the YMCA. It provides a safe, family-friendly, healthy and fun place for everyone to visit, complete with after school programs and much more,” said Quirk-Silva. “The children of Orange County deserve to engage in more opportunities for vital interactions in a positive environment, and learn skills they’ll need for college and beyond.”
The $5 million re-investment into Orange County will ensure that the project of the proposed 16,800 square foot two-phase project gets finished.
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/multi-sport court, indoor and outdoor gymnasium, climbing walls, teaching kitchen, group fitness room and multi-functional spaces for local residents.
“This new project will allow us to expand our community impact and provide a place of belonging for local residents of every age Anaheim is the 10th largest city in California, yet the only one without its own YMCA facility—and it’s time for that to change,” said Rick Martens, Anaheim Family YMCA President & CEO.
Joining the Assemblywoman in attendance at the groundbreaking ceremony were Rick Martens, Ed.D—President and CEO, Anaheim Family YMCA; Frank Donavan, Ed.D—Board Chair, Anaheim Family YMCA; Dr. Jose Moreno—Mayor Pro Tem of Anaheim; Carrie Nocella—Government Relations and Minority Business Development, Disney; Marc Goldin—Chief Financial Officer, The Crean Foundation and Nathan Zug—Board Member, Magnolia School District.
