Building Brighter Futures

YMCA of Greater Nashua Launches Major Early Education Center Renovation

Posted on August 14, 2025 by - Event Posts, YMCA News

EEC Kids tossing their construction hats in the air

Renovation of Early Education Center to Serve More Families Than Ever

The YMCA of Greater Nashua is proud to announce a transformative renovation of its Merrimack YMCA Early Education Center (EEC), currently the largest childcare center in New Hampshire and the largest single-site YMCA early education center in the United States.

“This renovation is a pivotal investment in our mission and in the futures of children and families across the Greater Nashua community,” said Joe Manzoli, COO of the YMCA of Greater Nashua. “By updating every classroom and adding new learning spaces, we’re creating environments that spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and support every child’s growth and wellness.”

Rendering of EEC HallwayRendering of Finished EEC Renderings of the EEC hallways

Project Highlights & Benefits:

  • • Phased Renovation Plan: Chapman Construction has been selected to oversee the renovation of approximately 24,000 square feet, including upgrades to 16 existing classrooms, a kitchen area, storage improvements, and new staff areas, as well as the addition of three new classrooms with private bathrooms, all while the center remains operational. The expansion will allow the Y to serve many more families in the Greater Nashua area.
  • • Enhanced learning environment: Renovation plans include skylights and other daylighting improvements to create a healthier, brighter space for both children and staff. Classrooms will feature sensory-friendly and nature-inspired designs that inspire wonder, motivate active learning, and enhance overall wellness.
  • Demo Day Construction Image• Space redesign for growth & community: The project will modernize hallways and classrooms to foster belonging, create new staff lounges, and upgrade security features by relocating secured entrances so that all classrooms are within a single restricted-access area.
  • • Continuity of care and quality: Despite the ongoing work, early education services will remain uninterrupted, with temporary classrooms and clear communication to ensure minimal disruption to families.
  • • Fundraising momentum: The projected cost of this renovation is approximately $2.5 million, supported by a mix of Y investment, community giving, and state tax credits.

 

Match Thermometer

Help Us Unlock $100K in Matching Funds for Our Early Education Center

In a major boost to the renovation campaign, an anonymous donor has pledged a $100,000 matching gift, doubling every community contribution toward the project.

“This generous matching gift is a strong vote of confidence in our commitment to early education and the families we serve,” said Mike LaChance, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Nashua. “By matching every donation, it inspires the community to come together and make an even bigger impact, helping us create a nurturing space where every child can thrive.”

The $100,000 match is a pivotal opportunity that when fully met, it will bring the YMCA significantly closer to finalizing funding for this critical renovation, ensuring that every child, current and future, can learn in a safe, inspiring, and well-equipped space.

 

Click to DonateWe welcome you to be part of building brighter futures for local children. Give today and watch your gift go twice as far through our $100K matching challenge.

 

 

About the YMCA of Greater Nashua
The YMCA of Greater Nashua has been serving the community since 1887. With a mission centered on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, the Y offers programs that strengthen the foundations of community through wellness, belonging, and achievement.

Media Contact:
Jason Mayeu
Director of Marketing  |  YMCA of Greater Nashua
jmayeu@nmymca.org  |  603.689.2403