The three-phase Family Y at Big Bend Road being built on 36 acres in Gibsonton next to Vance Vogel Park at 9650 Old Big Bend Road, finished its first of three phases on schedule but is now running behind on Phase II because of a lack of funds.
In the beginning, the three phases were due to be completed by late 2016, but the poor economy got in the way.
“We really need some donors who want to help their community or maybe leave a legacy behind for future generations,” said Jan Berry, chief development officer for the project. “Anyone who can help financially in any way would be appreciated.”
Based on what monies have already been collected for Phase II and what is needed, Berry said the original plans could be scaled back to do what they can now and build out the whole thing at a future date.
Still, it is hoped that the main building will be completed in spring 2018, said the Y’s Communications Director Lalita Lierena. Six million dollars have already been raised with $4 million to go (for Phase II as originally planned), she added.
“There are still potential naming opportunities for major giving levels,” Lierena said.
The Dan and Sharon Campo Airnasium (open-air gym) is already up; it was part of Phase I, and youth are shooting hoops. Passionate volunteers and staff are helping teach them new sports skills, sportsmanship and teamwork, Lierena continued.
Under the direction of Rob Gray, vice president of Operations at the Family Y at Big Bend Road, there are already several programs operating even though the main building of the facility has not yet been built. Gray is also in charge of operations at the Campo YMCA, Camp Cristina YMCA and works with the main YMCA administration.
With the outdoor facilities, including sports fields, restrooms and the airnasium in place, there have been winter sports activities, one summer camp, and a Teen Achievers program, which is a partnership with Eisenhower Middle School to help struggling students succeed.
This summer, an agreement with Waterset Communities on Big Bend Road will allow the Y to teach swimming classes in the development’s pool.
Senior Program Director Kaleigh Hincman will be checking out other things to be added as well, Gray said.
The Silver Sneakers classes for active older adults given by the Y are popular and are currently being held at the JSA Medical Group facility on Cortaro Drive in Sun City Center. Once the main building is constructed, these classes will be moved into the Y.
YMCA staff wants the community to know you do not have to be a Silver Sneakers member to participate in the classes geared to the older adults.
Summer camp will be held for the second year at the Y for youth ages 5 to 15, and both participants and counselors are now able to sign up. Youth age 18 and up may apply as counselors. To apply for camp or become a counselor, those interested may visit www.tampaymca.org and click on careers — or summer camp registration — or call 813-436-5890.
Meanwhile, plans are still in place to continue construction on the main facility and an aquatics center, as funding provides. The Y received $2 million as start-up funds from the Hillsborough County Commissioners in August 2013 and broke ground soon after that.
It is the first new YMCA to be built in the county in 12 years.
Cindy Sofarelli, currently of Metropolitan Ministries and former senior group vice president for the Tampa Metropolitan YMCA, said the organization is working hard to raise the funds to complete Phase II by spring 2018, with final buildout in another five years for a total of approximately $8.5 million.
To help with fundraising or to offer a gift, readers may contact Berry at 813-224-9622, Ext. 1268, or email her at jan.berry@tampaymca.org.