After a nine-month temporary closure, The Niagara Centre YMCA in Welland opened the doors to welcome members back on Monday, November 30 at 8 :00 a.m. During the re-opening, the Niagara Centre YMCA also recognized one of their major donors, the Groch Family, by installing a plaque at the outdoor playground that they helped fund.
New outdoor playground made possible thanks to support from the Groch Family
In 2005, Roman and Anna Groch began their YMCA Family Membership when the Niagara Centre location was built. Over the years, their children participated in swimming lessons and programming and continue to return to the YMCA when they come home during their university breaks taking advantage of the Home for the Holidays Student Membership. The YMCA is an integral part of providing activities for their entire family. It is especially important for their mental and physical health during the pandemic.
In 2018, it was determined that the outdoor playground at the Niagara Centre YMCA needed a major overhaul, which meant removing the current playground completely. Roman recognized that the YMCA was part of his community and needed support. The Groch family decided to step up and help fund a new outdoor play area with a natural theme.
“Children are our future. Unfortunately, lifestyles have changed dramatically, and now more than ever the use of electronics, and social media have de-emphasized the focus on social skills and face to face l interaction. The playground has helped get the youth back outside, playing with each other in a newly redesigned safe space. The playground inspires the use of imagination while unbeknownst to them is also promoting physical wellbeing.” Roman Groch, former president of Rotary Club and long-standing Welland YMCA member
Every day, the YMCA of Niagara works to support the people and neighborhoods that need it most by addressing local issues. The YMCA nurtures the potential of children, youth and families promoting healthy living and fostering social responsibility within the community. Bearing in mind the financial struggles that families are enduring throughout the pandemic the YMCA of Niagara has lowered membership fees for all members and are offering a NO JOIN FEE offer for any new members. Just becoming a member or reactivating your existing membership helps your community at large.
“The YMCA is more than a place; we are a cause. From exercise to education, basketball to volunteerism, or preschool to preventative health, the YMCA doesn’t just strengthen bodies – the YMCA of Niagara strengthens community” says interim CEO Steve Boone.
“Most importantly, 100% of donations remain in the Niagara region, having a direct impact on residents right in your own neighbourhood. Supporting the YMCA has a benefit for the entire community – we are certainly stronger together” says Lisa DeGasperis, VP of Philanthropy
“We highly recommend if you are able to donate, do so for the YMCA of Niagara has definitely been part of our lives, helped us out, and now we feel it is our turn to give back!” the Groch family
The YMCA of Niagara’s annual #stronger together campaign launches January 1st, 2021. Visit here to learn more about how you can support your community through the YMCA or contact Nora Jenter, Development Coordinator at nora.jenter@niagara.ymca.ca
