Monday, December 14, 2009

Ready To Raise Funds

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Owen Sound
by Jim Birchard    

Fundraising for the new Regional Recreation Centre to be build in Owen Sound is about to get underway.

The Owen Sound Family Y CEO Gayle Graham says they are committed to raise five million dollars for their share of the 38 million dollar cost for the new facility.

She says they already have been doing a lot of background work preparing for this drive and expect to go public with the campaign in the next week or so.

Graham says despite many other charities and groups operating various funding raising drives, she is confident the community will rally behind the Rec Centre campaign.

She says this is something people in Owen Sound and area want and understand how important a facility like this is for the future development of the city.

Graham says a facility like the Recreation Centre, with its two ice pads, Olympic size swimming pool, exercise rooms and  warm pools is something that people want to see if they are considering moving here or setting up a new business in Owen Sound.

She says this new facility will not only be regional, but it will be all encompassing as it would be open to all members of the community.

Graham says the Family Y will continue its financial assistance program that will help people who can't afford a regular membership have accessibility to all the services they offer.

As for the future of the existing Y building in Owen Sound, Graham says their board of directors has not yet decided whether or not to sell the old facility.