Turning A Dream Into Reality

By Andie Gibson

                “Bursting at the seams.” That’s how Smith Mountain Lake YMCA General Manager Lori Duffy described the current facility at Westlake Corner. In about a year, that will all change.

                The YMCA has embarked on a $500,000 building campaign and will soon begin construction on an 8,200-square-foot facility at LakeWatch Plantation, about a quarter of a mile off Rt. 122. Developer Trey Park donated 17 acres in the community as well as grading and contracting services, according to Russ Merritt, CEO of the Franklin County YMCA.

                “Bottom line is the YMCA board has accepted the offer of land and is proceeding full-scale with this plan,” said Merritt, explaining that the two facilities will offer members reciprocal privileges.

                The project’s first phase will include a fitness, circuit and cardiovascular exercise center; a 1,200 square-foot multi-purpose room for aerobics classes, meetings, and community gatherings; a large children’s play area; an indoor tennis facility with two courts that can be used for other activities such as teenage dances and dance lessons; two outdoor tennis courts; an outdoor multi-purpose playing field for soccer, flag football and other recreational activities; and a large playground and picnic area for children and families.

                “We are so excited,” Duffy said. “Our membership has grown to about 300, up 25 percent in just the past year. This [current] facility has been very good, we’ve just outgrown it. I just can’t wait to get our you programs started – after-school programs, lock-ins, dances.”

                Merritt said Phase II of the project will include a basketball gym with track, a larger fitness center, a childcare center and, hopefully, an aquatics center.

                The mission of the YMCA is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body. Merritt stressed that the YMCA is a non-profit organization that seeks to serve the community by offering quality programs and resources at an affordable cost.

                “No one is ever turned away,” Merritt said. “We have a different spirit here. It’s community-based. We’ll work out financial arrangements for underprivileged.”

                Dave and Cindy Cappellari, owners of Capps Home Building Center, are spearheading the fundraising effort, which includes naming opportunities ranging from $1,000 (front-entry brick pavers) to $200,000 (Wellness Center).

                 “This facility is certainly needed and will benefit people of all ages and income levels,” Dave said. “We’re excited to help build something the Lake community will be able to call its own.”