Blue Jackets Foundation funding playground project at historic YMCA
Oct 18, 2023
The YMCA of Central Ohio is looking forward to installing a brand new playground at the historic Eldon & Elsie Ward Family YMCA in Columbus, thanks to a major investment from the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation.
The foundation said it will provide $1.3 million to local youth and wellness initiatives across several local organizations during this hockey season. $150,000 will go toward the construction of this playground, which will be themed after the Blue Jackets.
As the successor to the Spring Street YMCA, one of the first Y locations in the country to serve the Black community, the Eldon & Elsie Ward Family YMCA proudly carries forward a legacy of over 100 years as a cornerstone of the Near East side community.
About the YMCA of Central Ohio
The Y is a vital community asset and one of Central Ohio’s leading nonprofits, empowering youth and families and strengthening communities through Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. We are a diverse association of men, women and children of all ages and from all walks of life, joined together by a shared commitment to nurture the potential of children and teens, improve our community’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support our neighbors. As part of the fabric of Central Ohio for more than 165 years, the Y has long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. For more information about the YMCA of Central Ohio, visit ymcacolumbus.org.