Members file through the front doors on the first day of operations at the Bettie Allard YMCA on Jan. 17.
The Bettie Allard YMCA had its official opening on Jan. 17, and thanks to the generosity of the Allard family, The Highbury Foundation, Spraggs family and many other What Really Matters Capital Campaign supporters, residents and families in the Tri-Cities are finally enjoying a YMCA centre of community to call their own.
We have been thrilled by the community’s enthusiastic response to the Bettie Allard YMCA, as evidenced by the early pace of membership registrations. The facility had signed up more than 4,000 members within its first month after opening, which surpassed the previous record realized at the Robert Lee YMCA following its redevelopment in 2010.
Our membership base has only continued to grow in the months since, as we’re now getting close to eclipsing the 5,000-member milestone. It has been wonderful to see the facility full of people working hard to meet their fitness goals, parents and children enjoying its dedicated Family Centre and Y Play area, visitors taking a break or chatting with friends in social spaces around the building, and the incredible pool and aquatic features making a splash with members!
As of last month, we had more than 850 registered participants in swim lessons at the facility. We’ll also be offering free safety lessons in the pool in spring and summer months as we look to promote swimmers taking the right precautions in and around the water.
There are still more exciting features to come, too! We’re looking forward to sharing more about our plans for the café space located in the Robert H. Lee Atrium in the months ahead.
Although the facility is open and welcoming a steady stream of members through its doors on a daily basis, it’s not too late to make a contribution in support of the Bettie Allard YMCA. There are still spaces and features inside the centre that are available to name, allowing you and your family an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy at this important community amenity for future generations.
Want to learn more about making a donation and the positive impact it will have in the Tri-Cities? Please contact us at giving@bc.ymca.ca or by calling 604-622-4967.