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HELP US REBOUND & REBUILD

SUPPORT THE COURT AND YOUR COMMUNITY

The Wallingford Family YMCA has been a cornerstone of our community for generations, where neighbors come together to learn, grow, and build long connections. However, recent water damage has left our beloved basketball court in ruins and has forced it to be closed for several months. We need your help to rebuild this essential facility that has played a crucial role in fostering health, unity, and community engagement.

The basketball court has been the heart of our YMCA, providing a safe, inclusive space for people of all ages to engage in physical activity, enjoy sports, and build friendships. This project is about more than just hoops and dribbles; it’s about creating a positive and lasting impact on our community.

THE URGENT NEED

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT

The basketball court been a place for local youth to grow, learn, and develop essential life skills through sports, mentorship, and discipline. From youth sports classes to all-camp activities, the basketball court is a place for our youth to come together, learn teamwork, build self-esteem, and develop valuable life skills.

HEALTHY LIVING

Physical activity is essential for everyone’s health. The court provides an accessible space for people of all ages to stay active with pickleball & group exercise classes, improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental well-being.

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

The court has been a gathering place for neighbors to connect, support each other, and celebrate diversity. It’s held Zumbathons, the LiveSTRONG at the YMCA cancer survivor program, community rentals, and even our annual Grand Gala Grandparent & Grandchild Dance. Its absence has left a significant void in Wallingford.

PROJECT TIMELINE

In late August, a portion of the gymnasium floor became warped & bubbled, prompting us to take immediate action to ensure the safety of our members and staff. Upon inspection, it was discovered that the subfloor contained asbestos, which was not uncommon in a facility built in the 1950s. We immediately closed & sealed off the affected area to ensure a secure environment for everyone and have since removed the damaged portion of the floor. We have also identified the cause of the initial damage and are implementing measures to prevent a recurrence.

Our goal is to reopen our gymnasium in mid-December.

In order to do so, we must do the following:

  • Remove entirety of existing floor
  • Install water mitigation system
  • Paint gymnasium walls, remove retired fans, rehang lights & clean gym curtain
  • Install NEW gymnasium floor
HOW TO HELP

Your financial contributions are vital to rebuilding the court and restoring its place in our community. Insurance only was able to help with 10% of the project costs. The Y needs to fundraise the cover the remainder. We are asking our dedicated YMCA membership and community to help us restore the floor & our beloved gymnasium! Please consider making a donation to support this project.

For more information, please contact Sean Doherty, Executive Director, at 203-269-4497 x129.

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Facility Update

The Wallingford Family YMCA will CLOSE at 3:00PM on Sunday, January 18.

Stay safe & enjoy the snow. ❄️🌨❄️