MARCO ISLAND, Fla. — The Marco Island YMCA plans to construct a new two-story, 17,000-square-foot facility, aiming to enrich the lives of the island’s expanding senior community. This ambitious project not only embodies the spirit of communal gathering but also serves as a beacon of hope for those seeking connection and engagement.
“We are bursting at the seams, and folks need a place to socialize, gather, and participate in activities that will help their wellness and fitness needs,” expressed Cindy Love-Abounader, the devoted President and CEO of the Marco Island YMCA. Her words resonate deeply, reflecting the need for spaces where individuals can come together, share stories, and support one another.
The YMCA recently shared captivating renderings of the $8.5 million development with FOX 4 News. The two-story structure will house a fitness wellness center on the second floor, featuring a serene balcony that overlooks popular racquet sports areas like pickleball and tennis. The vision of morning sunlight filtering through those spaces, splashing warmth on the faces of vibrant seniors, is hard to dismiss.
“On the first floor, it’s going to have a nice welcoming new face to the YMCA lobby,” Love-Abounader added, her enthusiasm palpable. Visualizing a bright, inviting entrance sets the tone for warmth and community, drawing people in to make memories.
Moreover, the expansion includes a delightful café and a spacious multi-use area dedicated to a variety of senior programs. One can easily picture conversations buzzing over coffee, laughter ringing through the hall, as seniors partake in enriching activities tailored to foster their well-being.
In early August, Marco Island’s planning board approved the development plan, marking a significant step forward and officially launching the YMCA’s fundraising campaign for the initiative. “I am extraordinarily excited. It has been a long time in the works,” commented Ashley Lupo from the YMCA. After six years of navigating challenges, including hurricanes Irma and Ian, as well as the unexpected pause created by COVID-19, this new chapter provides a renewed sense of purpose.
The YMCA aspires to break ground by next spring, yet the $8.5 million goal looms large, requiring considerable donations to bring this vision to life. Lupo emphasized the essence of inclusivity, stating that the new facility will cater to seniors, regardless of their financial situation. “There’s a lot of seniors in the community that might be on fixed incomes or who are really not able to participate in programming because of costs,” she explained, offering reassurance that participation will remain accessible at the Y.
Marco Island, known for its stunning sunsets and promise of tranquility, will soon have a new hallmark of community service. A sanctuary where individuals can find companionship, health, and joy, this expansion of the YMCA represents not just a building, but a thriving ecosystem of vibrant lives intertwined by shared experiences. As the project moves from dreams to reality, it serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of community and the relentless drive for connection, something that is always needed, regardless of one’s stage in life.
