By now you are probably well aware that the Nashua YMCA has been sold to Southern New Hampshire Medical Center. The proceeds from the sale will be used to help build a new YMCA in the city - just off of Exit 5 - next to the Conway Ice Arena and near Nashua High South. This location is convenient, not only to a major highway allowing a larger service area access to the YMCA, but is situated in the geographic center of the city. An outside consulting firm has conducted a detailed marketing and demographic study and determined that we will serve approximately 50% more people than who currently use the existing facility on Prospect Street.
Our new facility will be approximately 40,000 square feet in space and built at a cost of $10.1M. The cost of building will not only come from the sale of the existing building, but from a $3M community-wide Capital Campaign and the balance through debt financing. We have begun the fundraising campaign for the project and have been delighted with the support both in terms of volunteers and financial contributions that are coming in. For me personally one of the most rewarding aspects of the campaign has been meeting with people and hearing stories of their connection to the Y or the impact the Y has had on their lives. Although our YMCA serves 23,000 people annually and that's significant, it's not just about the numbers. This is also a great opportunity to educate the public about what the YMCA really does for the communities it serves.
On October 25th we will officially kick-off the community phase of the Capital Campaign. This is the most public and visible portion of the campaign. We have a very committed group of staff and volunteers currently planning the event and information will be forthcoming to encourage your participation and that of your entire family.
As you can imagine this is not only a very busy time for the staff and volunteers involved in our organization, but it is also a very exciting time. In order for this campaign to be successful we need the support of many people like yourself who has a vested interest in the YMCA and I encourage you to join me. Please help us by sharing some of your time, talent, or treasure.
