Enhancing Our Waterfront
2019 Waterfront Project
This project is an important step to improve the safety of the property and expand the programming opportunities for campers.
A new, larger boathouse will have safer access and a covered pavilion matching the design of the main lodge.
A new retaining wall along the lake will replace the outdated wall. This wall will improve visibility, increase access to the waterfront, and create an inviting experience for families and campers.
A new bathroom facility, located at the top of the waterfront steps, will allow campers to be appropriately supervised during waterfront activities.
A new foot trail will follow the eastern shoreline, and provide new access to areas of camp that have previously been underutilized.
Securing The Future
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 10 years, our programs have grown into something this community can be proud of. We are heavily supported by the Barry County United Way, outside 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, through the past generosity of the community, is blessed with a superb facility in Camp Algonquin. We provide very important opportunities for families and children to grow and learn in an outdoor, group living environment. It is imperative that this facility be maintained, preserved and enhanced for future generations. A major waterfront renovation is planned for 2019-2020, and we have secured 80% of our funding needs. While we have been very good stewards of the property, additional buildings mean additional financial challenges. With sustained 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 activities to all corners of the county. While administrative expenses have been very tightly controlled; it would be a very significant asset to be able to state to future annual donors that 100% of administrative expenses were covered by our endowment. People would have the added incentive of knowing that their full contribution was supporting programming and services for families, and not overhead administrative expenses.
Campaign Goals
Bob King Legacy Fund – the interest earned each year will provide funds to assist families in need. Our goal is $1,250,000.
Camp Endowment – designed to have money available to maintain and build on the camp facilities. Our goal is $2,100,000.
General Endowment – designed to subsidize all administrative expenses thus allowing the Y to keep its program fees at a reasonable cost. Our goal is $4,500,000.
