The La Porte County YMCA has recently opened their doors for a new location in Elston, Michigan City. This marked a huge event for La Porte area YMCAs and Michigan City as the new location not only contributes to the Y’s overall plan of offering a fun and functional location for all community members to attend, but to the continued growth and sustainability of both La Porte County and Michigan City.
‘We’ve been trying for several years to bring the Y to Michigan City,” says La Porte County Family YMCA Executive Director and CEO Cindy Berchem. “Now that we have one in Elston, we can have a quality location for all members of the community to enjoy.”
The Y in Elston was built with the assistance and charitable donations of Horizon Bank, spearheaded by their CEO Craig Dwight who from the beginning, was very supportive of setting up the new Y location.
“We’re making great progress on our fundraising efforts; however there are still opportunities for area businesses to be a part of supporting this effort including naming rights on several areas of the facility,” says Dwight.
The close relationship allowed the two groups to ensure that tasks and scheduling were completed in a timely and efficient manner with little to no delays along the way.
“There was an opportunity to bring the Y to Michigan City, and from the moment that opportunity presented itself, Horizon Bank was on board and supportive from the beginning,” says Berchem. “It was approached as if Horizon Bank would be in the campaign chair overseeing the decisions and wanting to be very involved.”
Horizon Bank was one of three entities to make charitable donations to the construction of the Y. Along with working closely with the team during the building process, Horizon Bank also donated $100,000 to the restoration and building effort.
“This was a great moment for the Y and the community,” says Berchem. “It was incredible to see how Craig truly understands what the Y does for the community.”
“For those like me, who have lived most of their life in Michigan City, the chance to go back into the old Red Devil gym, walk through the halls and see how the Y is updating this local treasure, is well worth your time,” says Dwight.
Both Berchem and Dwight hope that by having the Y in Elston, this will allow more opportunities for the YMCA to spread its goals and purpose to members of the Michigan City community.
“When you look at Y’s across the country, you notice that they are essential parts of successful communities,” says Berchem. By being here, I like the idea that we’re actively part of Michigan City’s current reinvigoration. It’s something that Mayor Meer understands and the public as well.”
Dwight also recognizes the importance of the Y’s location in Michigan City and feels that its inclusion is also essential in building the future of Michigan City and its community.
“The Y’s approach to building young minds and bodies is important for the future of our community. We’ve already lost one generation who was unable to have access to swim lessons and living by the lake this is an absolute tragedy,” says Dwight. “The Y fills many gaps in services for families and multiple generations. I see the Elston Y as a real community gathering for years to come.”