Watertown Health Professionals Rally Behind YMCA's Capital Campaign to Build a New Y

Health professionals in Watertown have rallied in support of the YMCA's Building Community Capital Campaign, acknowledging the important role a new YMCA will play in enhancing the health and vitality of the Watertown community. 

The show of support began early in the Y’s Capital Campaign timeline with generous donations from several local physicians and dentists, as well as a significant contribution from the Watertown Regional Medical Center (WRMC). Jon Lange, YMCA Chief Executive Officer shared, “These early donations gave us confidence we were on the right track in meeting the health and wellness needs in our community. Together, we are transforming the landscape of wellness in Watertown.”

Richard Keddington, WRMC Chief Executive Officer explained, “With Watertown Regional Medical Center being the primary healthcare provider in our community, we see the YMCA as a key partner in promoting wellness through physical activity, mental health support, and social engagement. Building a new Y attached to The Collective will help make an impact on the community in a more sizeable way.”

When the new Y is completed, the large gymnasium will be known as the Watertown Regional Medical Center Gymnasium in recognition of their generous gift. The gym will be a great space for youth, adults, and families to enjoy open play time and will contain ample space for basketball, volleyball, and pickleball.

Naming opportunities are still under consideration to acknowledge the generous contributions of other early supporters in the health industry, including Dr. Mike and Sarah Sullivan, Dr. Steven and Letisha LeGrow, Dr. Mike and Monica Grajewski, and Dr. Jarrod and Kate Thomas, who were among the project’s inaugural donors.

Dr. Mike Grajewski shared, “Monica and I know that having a gathering space geared toward healthy activities is critical to a community’s culture of genuine wellbeing. We knew that building the new YMCA as quickly as possible would jumpstart people on their road to better health and wellbeing. The YMCA organization assures a solid basis of that culture.”

“I've seen firsthand the positive impact the Y has had on my family and our community,” expressed Dr. Jarrod Thomas. “I want to ensure that future generations have access to similar opportunities for growth and development.”

To honor all health professionals who donate to the Y’s Capital Campaign, a special plaque will be displayed outside the WRMC Gymnasium recognizing gifts of $1,000 or more made by those in the health professions. This recognition will be in addition to the general donor display. If interested in contributing to the Y’s Capital Campaign, please contact Taylor Walsh at twalsh@glcymca.org.