Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The Sandusky County Communities Foundation announced recently that the Lee N. Koenig Legacy Fund has awarded a $400,000 grant to the YMCA of Sandusky County, providing the catalyst for an exciting new chapter in the YMCA’s history and helping launch plans for a transformational investment in the future of the community.
The gift will provide the resources needed to continue the planning process for a major YMCA initiative designed to strengthen the Y’s ability to serve children, families, seniors and the broader Sandusky County community for generations to come.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Koenig family’s longstanding commitment to the YMCA and their belief in the important role the Y plays in our community,” Jeremiah Wagner, CEO of the YMCA of Sandusky County, said. “This extraordinary gift creates momentum and allows us to continue envisioning what is possible as we prepare for the future needs of those we serve.”
The Lee N. Koenig Legacy Fund was established to honor the legacy of Lee Koenig, whose dedication to the YMCA spanned many years of service and leadership.
“Our father was involved with the YMCA since its inception in 1962 and had a deep passion for the YMCA and the positive impact it has on people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds,” the Koenig family said. “We share that passion and are honored that, through the Lee N. Koenig Legacy Fund, we can help continue the process that we believe will create lasting benefits for our community.”
While plans are still in the early stages, the YMCA has assembled a team of nationally recognized partners to help shape the vision and guide the process. Gro, a leader in YMCA facility planning and design, and Suddes Partners, a leading firm specializing in YMCA capital campaign strategy and fundraising, have been engaged to support the initial planning efforts. Creative Planning, a professional services firm providing expertise with grant services and other funding sources for nonprofit organizations is also engaged in the project.
“This is an exciting next step for our Y and the community,” Wagner said. “We look forward to engaging the community and sharing more details as the vision continues to take shape.”
