GALION, Ohio – Supporters, volunteers, and leaders turned out to celebrate the dedication of the newly remodeled Galion Center YMCA on Thursday, Jan. 29.
The $1 million project was a huge undertaking and a challenge for the YMCA. Rod Vose, member and supporter of the YMCA, said, “The community was really behind it. We’re proud of the results. We have an outstanding YMCA program.”
Terry Gribble, executive director of the Galion YMCA, said the planning stages of the project began in 2012 with surveys and meetings with key leaders. The goal was to raise $750,000, but that total was surpassed and $850,000 was committed. With other donations and grants the project was able to move forward.
“It’s a credit to the community, the people that support us. We thought [the $750,000] would be a stretch,” said Gribble.
“This is a visible beginning of a new milestone,” added Gribble. The mission is not finished, he said. The YMCA will be reaching out to more people with more programs.
Ray Weithman, Jr., contractor for the remodel, presented a dedication plaque which will be displayed at the front desk. Weithman said his grandfather helped with the construction of the original building, his father helped with the renovation in the ‘70s, and he feels fortunate to be asked to continue his family tradition.
“It’s been a great honor to be involved in this project that gives so much for this community,” he said.
Everything was upgraded, Weithman said, and available space was utilized and repurposed. The plans were created to bring a more open feel to the facility. The challenge, said Weithman, was to renovate while keeping the YMCA operational.
After the ceremony, visitors toured the facility. Renovations included a free-weight room with rubber floor, a refurbished gymnasium with new large observing windows, and a spin room.
The main front window was replaced with thermal glass to save energy and make the lobby more comfortable. The observation windows to the pool were replaced to make the room brighter and making it possible for parents to see their children swim. Portions of the roof were replaced, as well.
“The Y makes a significant impact in the community,” said Ken Davis, president of the board of directors. “It is truly the hub of the community.”
The YMCA benefits body and mind, and impacts on people of all ages, he said.
Davis said the YMCA is open from 5:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. The YMCA also offers karate, parent-taught swim, lunch-time workouts, youth and adult basketball, Saturday swimming, and church volleyball.
The Galion YMCA was formed in 1957 at the Nation Guard Armory. The Galion Community Center was built at 500 Gill Avenue in 1966. Two tennis courts and six lighted shuffleboard courts were added in 1975.
The Galion Center YMCA is dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The National Y states: “We know that lasting personal and social change comes about when we all work together. That’s why, at the Y, strengthening community is our cause. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure that everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive.”
For more information, visit the Facebook or the website.
“The Y makes a significant impact in the community,” said Ken Davis, president of the board of directors. “It is truly the hub of the community.”
