Project Overview

What is the main reason for a major renovation of the Downtown YMCA?

Built in 1956, a major renovation of the Downtown Y is long overdue.   Simply put, our current facility does not meet the growing and changing needs in our community, especially given the exciting revitalization taking place downtown.

The new Schewel-Clark Family YMCA will be a “Y of the future” providing an open, welcoming environment with critical new spaces for community health programs, youth education and support, individual and group wellness, and family programming.

What will be the focus of the renovation?

At the heart of this estimated $11.5 million building transformation is a new 3-story, 23,000 square foot addition to replace the current lower portion of the building facing Church Street.  The remaining areas of the current Y will be refurbished and refreshed.

What new features will be included in the Schewel Clark Family YMCA?

A number of key new features of the Schewel-Clark Family YMCA will include:  2-story Wellness Center, Youth Learning Center, Community Center, Teen Center, Kids Adventure Zone, Child Watch Area, Teaching Kitchen, and Group Exercise, Yoga and Pilates Studios.

Giving to the Capital Campaign

What is the capital campaign goal?

The campaign goal is $11.5 million, which is the total projected cost of the renovation.

How much is left to raise?

We have been extremely pleased and appreciative of the community’s generous support thus far, but it will take the entire community to get behind this capital campaign for the full scope of the project to be completed.  Please click here  to see progress to date toward the $11.5 million capital campaign goal.

How can I donate?

The easiest way to make a gift to the capital campaign is online.  However, a pledge form, included here, can also be completed and mailed.

Are there suggested giving levels?

Yes.  Please see the various giving levels here.  These are suggested giving levels, however all gifts to the capital campaign are appreciated.

Can I make a gift over a period of time?

Yes.  Gifts to the capital campaign can be over a period of up to five years to maximize the community’s support.  Please go here to make a pledge online or complete the pledge form.

Are donations tax deductible?

Yes.  The YMCA of Central Virginia is a charitable nonprofit with 501 (c) 3 designation by the IRS.  All donors will receive a letter documenting their contribution.

Will donors be publicly recognized?

Major gifts will be recognized unless a donor prefers to remain anonymous and not be publicly recognized.  Please see giving levels for our recognition plans.

Additional Questions

What is the timeline to complete the project?

The local architect Dominion Seven has been engaged to finalize the plans.  A local contractor will be selected by the end of this year (2022).  Construction can begin once the capital campaign has reached a level of community support for the Board of Directors to feel confident in moving forward.

Given the complexity of the project, our plans are to phase the construction so the Y can remain open throughout the process.

Will my membership dues go up to help pay for the renovation?

An increase in membership dues will not be part of the plan to fund the renovation.  The renovation will be funded by the generous support of the community through the YMCA OF CENTRAL VIRGINIA Building for a Better US® Capital Campaign.   

Will parking be addressed as part of this renovation?

Yes. The Y leadership is evaluating the best and most viable solution to increase parking capacity for the new Schewel Clark Family YMCA.