“The gift includes a $1 million leadership contribution along with a $1 million matching challenge, designed to inspire community giving and accelerate progress toward the YMCA’s $7.5 million campaign goal,” read a press release from the NLYMCA.

The Delta Center is officially launching the community phase of the campaign after holding one kickoff event yesterday, one early this morning, and another at noon today. Campaign leaders are co-chairs Scott Herioux and Ray Lamarche, both long-time YMCA board members and advocates.

The existing swimming pool at the facility at 2000 N. 30th St. in Escanaba was built in 1990 and has surpassed its expected life.

“Today, the pool in Escanaba is used for swimming lessons, fitness classes, open swim and private rentals. When issues arise that cause unexpected closures and cancellations, those who count on such programs are left hanging,” reported the Daily Press in September 2024, noting that closures of the outdated pool were not infrequent. At the time, funds for a replacement were being gathered in a “quiet” phase, before the aquatic center was the focus of the Y’s capital campaign.

When the YMCA builds a new aquatic center in Escanaba, the plan is to include an "all-access" entry ramp for people of all abilities. This image is a rendering, and design is subject to change. (Courtesy image)

“With early leadership gifts like the Besse Foundation’s commitment, the YMCA has built strong momentum and is now engaging the broader community to complete the campaign,” the organization reported. Including a $1.75 million USDA grant, about 68% of the $7.5 million goal has been reached, shared Caron Salo, Associate Executive Director and Campaign Manager.

“The Besse family has long been a cornerstone of generosity in our region,” Salo said. “Their gift will help ensure that children learn to swim, families improve their health, and lives are saved for generations to come.”

The new aquatic center will aim to serve as a “vital regional resource” accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

According to NLYMCA, the pool design will feature an all-access lane with zero-depth entry that allows individuals to enter the water gradually, whether walking independently or utilizing mobility aids such as walkers or water wheelchairs.

Additionally, a new, modern pool will provide greater efficiency, ease of maintenance, and user comfort. The new facility will incorporate advanced UV water sanitation technology, significantly reducing the need for traditional chlorine while improving water quality.

The Besse Foundation recently pledged $2 million to the Northern Lights YMCA's capital campaign.

Beyond everyday use, the aquatic center will be able to support lifeguard certification efforts across the Upper Peninsula and provide a training resource for local search and rescue teams.

The two NLYMCA locations — the Delta Center in Escanaba and the Dickinson Center in Iron Mountain — have been community hubs for years. It was clear that assisting the Escanaba Y to be able to continue serving countless locals was in line with the mission of the Besse Foundation.

In 2005, the Besses established the John and Melissa Besse Foundation to continue their philanthropic mission with a legacy rooted in hard work and entrepreneurship. Though Melissa passed away in 2011 and John in 2013, their vision lives on through the foundation and their family.

“This incredible commitment is a testament to the Besse family’s enduring belief in community, opportunity, and giving back,” said Salo. “Their leadership gift not only moves this project forward in a significant way, but it also invites others to join in and double their impact.”

The YMCA now invites community members to take part in this historic effort. Through the Besse Foundation’s matching challenge, every eligible gift has the potential to be doubled.

Though the existing pool at the Escanaba YMCA looks alright on the surface, this picture from beneath, taken in September 2024, shows the age and condition and need for upgrades. (Daily Press file)

The target goal represents the minimum amount necessary to build a new aquatics center. But if the goal is exceeded, Salo said, it would be a good thing — they’d be able to pursue additional amenities.

Nearly 60 community volunteers will now be connecting with individuals, businesses and organizations across the region to help raise funds for the project.

For more information about the campaign or to make a gift, readers may visit www.nlymca.com or contact the Northern Lights YMCA’s Delta Center at 906-789-0005.