EDITOR:

We are writing to express our support for the YMCA’s Capital Campaign project for a new swimming pool in our community. Currently, the YMCA is seeking substantial contributions from larger donors, yet we have not seen the level of support needed from local businesses and benefactors.

We are in danger of losing our current pool due to its age and condition. Building a new pool now, while we still have the chance, is not just a matter of convenience but of foresight. When the current pool fails, the time needed to raise funds and construct a new facility would mean a significant period without access to this important resource.

The YMCA’s pool serves as more than just a place to swim, it is a place to build community. From toddlers enjoying their first swimming lessons to elders who find health benefits in casual swimming, the pool caters to all ages and stages of life. It is a place where young adults have been trained as lifeguards, a profession that offers both valuable experience and a sense of responsibility. Moreover, our local beaches rely on these trained lifeguards to ensure safety throughout the summer season.

Additional, the pool is the venue for numerous swim meets that go beyond mere competition. These events build community spirit, provide opportunities for social interaction, and generate economic activity for local businesses.

We urge everyone to support the YMCA’s vision for a new swimming pool. If you are in a position to influence your employer or other potential funding sources, we encourage you to advocate for their support of this vital project. Let’s make sure our community continues too be a place where people of all ages can enjoy the benefits of having a local pool.

Mark Asselin, Joan Miron, Lynn Thomas

Escanaba