Y gets $1.48 million
Three families have beq-ueathed a total of nearly $1.5 million to the Montgomery County YMCA, it announced in a press release.
The YMCA received $800,000 from the Charles and Norma Wilson Foundation, $573,000 from the Helen Murphy Estate, and $109,000 from the Rod and Jean Farmer Estate. The majority of the new funding will support the permanent endowment of which only the principal’s interest can be spent, according to endowment by-laws, for operational needs and/or long term maintenance needs.
Montgomery County YMCA Board President Mike Olson said the funding benefits were a surprise and an honor.
“It’s very humbling to receive this amount of money, and we feel so blessed to have people help to sustain the Y financially in such a big way. Such continued support is needed to assure the Y and all it provides can exist,” Olson said.
Executive director Nick Zimmer said the Wilsons and Ms. Murphy were key contributors to initial construction of the Y as well as on-going financial support. Rod Farmer was instrumental in formulating initial multi-million dollar fund-raising strategies and also monitored the large, local volunteer effort it took to build the facility.
“Rod provided his expertise throughout a 19-month period,” Zimmer said. “His Y background and knowledge of our market-size were crucial. He knew just how to raise $6.6 million, the most ever done in our county. He assisted YMCAs nationwide with their campaigns,” commented Zimmer.
Even with these sizeable gifts, Zimmer pointed out the continuing need for monetary support in order for the Y to function.
“Equipment care, maintenance and replacement, property insurance, utilities, staff salaries, insurance, and other day-to-day expenses all require a lot.” “When we built, we knew long-term extra funding over and above dues and various fees would be needed. We sincerely appreciate everyone’s assistance, whatever and how much it may be,” commented Zimmer.
To learn more about the YMCA or how you can be involved, call Nick Zimmer at 623-2161, pay them a visit in person, or email nickz@mcymca.com. You can also find the YMCA on Facebook, or visit the website at mcymca.com.