YMCA of Northwest Arkansas on its own
Posted on Friday, August 4, 2006
BENTONVILLE — Progress is being made in building what will become the region’s first YMCA — and for the first time, northwest Arkansas is going out on its own.
YMCA of Northwest Arkansas Board of Directors President Chris Sooter announced at the board meeting Thursday that the organization has officially been removed from the umbrella of the Freeman Southwest Family YMCA in Neosho, Mo.
Previously, the area fell under the service area of the Neosho facility.
But it’s always been the plan for the YMCA of Northwest Arkansas to become a home branch — and open local branches in cities throughout the area.
“ This is a quickly-growing, dynamic area, and (the YMCA ) needs to go on its own, ” Sooter said.
Sooter said he’s been in touch with the YMCA’s national headquarters, and the YMCA of Northwest Arkansas is currently working to establish a charter, and to establish status as a nonprofit, 501 c 3 nonprofit organization.
Board members also discussed how to raise funds for the upcoming facility — and want to stress that they haven’t settled on a location; however, the first facility will be in Bentonville.
Board Vice President Kalene Griffith said the board would likely conduct a feasibility study to determine the best location for a YMCA.
The first facility will not be the only facility in the region.
“ We’re planning to have a YMCA everywhere that one is needed in northwest Arkansas, ” said board member James Smith.
For more information, contact Sooter at csooter @ membserv. com or Griffith at kalene @ bentonvilleusa. org.
FEEDBACK:
Something to say about this topic? Submit a Letter to the Editor online