Their Vision
After several years of operating at full capacity, with an ever-growing demand for more space and expanded programming, the Westside Family YMCA knew it was time to improve the health and well-being of their community by expanding their services and increasing access to promote healthy living. They wished to become a true hub in the community of West Los Angeles. Netzel Grigsby Associates was retained to study the viability of a capital campaign to provide support for a relocation onto the centrally located University High School campus, along with meaningful improvements.
Our Strategy
The Campaign Feasibility Study conducted by Netzel Grigsby Associates with strong participation from the staff and volunteer leadership determined that a fundraising effort of $20 million would be achievable, and the Building A Healthy Community Together Campaign was launched. In order to succeed, the Y would need to strengthen partnerships and engage residents and businesses, helping them embrace the vision and impact the new Y would have for the community. Nearly fifty volunteers worked in a complex committee structure over the duration of the campaign. This project attracted foundation funding, with over one million dollars provided in grants.
Success Together
The “Building A Healthy Community Together Campaign” was met with great excitement and acceptance by individuals, corporation and foundations. An innovative partnership with the Los Angeles Unified School District provided just the right space needed to bring this unique project to fruition. Working with Netzel Grigsby Associates, the Y leadership exceeded the $20 million goal and today the Westside Family YMCA enjoys a premier aquatics center, a full size gymnasium, which serves both Y members and the students of University High School, health and fitness center, multipurpose rooms, a child activity center, a teen leadership center, and expanded community meeting spaces, all within an energy efficient building constructed to LEED certification standards. A spacious parking structure was also built ensuring ample room for the Y’s increased membership. These improvements have tripled participation at the Y as well as enhancing the University High School experience for its students.
“NGA served as our trusted counsel throughout the feasibility study and capital campaign process. Their counsel helped us exceed our initial goal and achieve the dream of a stunning new YMCA for the West Los Angeles community.”
- Ann Samson, retired Executive Director, Collins & Katz YMCA