Waterfront Renovation
This project was an important step to improve the safety of the property and expand the programming opportunities for campers.
A new, larger boathouse has safer access and a covered pavilion matching the design of the main lodge.
A new retaining wall along the lake replaced the outdated wall. This wall improves visibility, increases access to the waterfront, and creates an inviting experience for families and campers.
A new bathroom facility, located at the top of the waterfront steps, allows campers to be appropriately supervised during waterfront activities.
A new foot trail and boardwalk deck follows the eastern shoreline, and provides new access to areas of camp that have previously been underutilized.
Continued Legacy Through Endowments
Case Statement
In 2009, The YMCA of Barry County needed to develop a more stable funding base in order to continue to provide mission critical programming for the children and families of Barry County. Financial support from traditional funding sources had declined, both in actual dollars and as a percentage of operating expenses, due to the severe impact of the economic conditions. Over the last 12 years, our programs have grown into something this community can be proud of. We are supported by the Barry County United Way, various grant funding, the City of Hastings, and our own Endowment program. To achieve our original goals of sustained funding, we need more support. It is vital that we act to ensure the continued availability of Y services to children and families. We provide programs that develop self-confidence, promote a greater interest in learning, and provide a basis for making smarter life choices. The need for these programs has never been greater and will only increase.
Campaign Focus
PROVIDING ASSISTANCE FOR ALL
To make programming accessible to more families, financial aid is crucial given current and prospective economic circumstances. Today, over 35% of campers receive financial assistance, and all programs are subsidized at some level. Hundreds of families registering children for youth programs rely on this assistance to ensure their children stay active. The need for financial aid is not due to the cost of programming. A national YMCA survey verifies that our camp and program fees are already among the lowest in the nation. The need is driven by the financial challenges facing so many families in Barry County.
PRESERVING CAMP ALGONQUIN
The YMCA of Barry County is blessed with a superb facility in Camp Algonquin. We provide important opportunities for families and children to grow and learn in an outdoor, group living environment. It is imperative that this facility be maintained and enhanced for future generations. A major waterfront renovation was completed in 2020, and we still have funding needs. While we have been good stewards of the property, additional buildings mean additional expenses. With sustained endowment funding, we will not jeopardize our ability to keep up with the demands of our maturing and highly utilized camp.
SECURING OPERATIONAL INDEPENDENCE
Our outreach services to Barry County residents and beyond are growing. Our Y Mentors program replaced Big Brothers Big Sisters of Barry County in 2017. Our B. Bus Mobile Library has delivered books and educational activities to all corners of the county. Throughout the covid pandemic, we have continued to deliver meals to hundreds of children who count on us. While administrative expenses have been very tightly controlled; it would be tremendous to be able to state to future donors that 100% of administrative expenses were covered by our endowment. People will have the added incentive of knowing that their full contribution is supporting programming and services for families, and not overhead administrative expenses.
Campaign Funds and Goals
“New” Dave Storms Community Outreach Fund – Dave Storms, or “Stormy,” led our YMCA and Camp Algonquin from 1981 through 2006. He remains a strong supporter of the Y and our community. This fund, established in 2020, will support all community outreach efforts by the YMCA in Barry County. Our goal is $500,000.
Bob King Legacy Fund – This provides financial assistance so that every child has the opportunity to participate in a YMCA program regardless of their ability to pay. Our goal is $1,250,000.
Camp Endowment – designed to have money available to maintain and enhance the camp facilities. Our goal is $2,500,000.
General Endowment – designed to subsidize all administrative expenses which allows the Y to keep its program fees at a reasonable cost. Our goal is $5,000,000.
