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Upped Donation

Putnam Bank recently upped its pledge to the Regional YMCA from $50,000 to $75,000. Left to right: Betty Hale, Putnam Bank President and CEO Thomas Borner and James O'S Morton, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Hartford. Linda Lemmon photo.

 

 

PUTNAM — In a recent move approved by its Board of Directors, Putnam Bank President and CEO Thomas A. Borner announced that the bank will increase its original gift of $50,000 to the Regional Community YMCA by $25,000 bringing its total commitment to the project to $75,000.

Putnam Bank was the first local financial institution to announce its support for the YMCA when the capital campaign was initiated. Borner also demonstrated his support for the project by serving as a members of the Capital Campaign Committee.  He currently serves as the treasurer of the Regional Community YMCA’s Board of Advisors.

“As a young man growing up in Norwalk the YMCA played a significant role in my life.  The values the Y demonstrates can be very critical in the life of a young person.  Putnam Bank is pleased to be able to support this worthwhile project for the people of our area,” said attorney Borner.

“We are extremely pleased by Putnam Banks generosity.  The additional funds come at a time when we’re planning the final phase of our capital campaign.  Attorney Borner and the bank have been most supportive throughout the entire planning and execution of this project,” said James O’S Morton, president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Hartford.

The Regional Community YMCA will be located off Kennedy Drive.  Included in the construction plans of the 45,000-square foot facility are two swimming pools, a lap pool and a warm-water pool, a gymnasium, fitness center, and a teen center.  The cost of the project is estimated to be $14.6 million.

The Y will be built on 15 acres of land donated by Wheelabrator-Putnam to the town.  The land transfer from the town to the Y is planned in the near future with ground breaking planned for late summer 2014.  The grand opening of the Regional Community YMCA is projected for late 2015.

“The northeast corner of Connecticut is an emerging part of our state.  The growth that’s been witnessed in recent years is an indication of the need for a YMCA in the area.  This facility will serve the needs of the region and provide significant programs for children and families as well as the senior population,” said Morton.

Dr. Garfield “Woody” Danenhower, who along with his wife Sylvia are serving as the chairpersons of the campaign, said the YMCA when operational will have a significant impact on the health of the communities of northeastern Connecticut.  In addition to the physical activities that individuals will engage in, there will be programs addressing health care issues such as obesity and nutrition.  

“At the Y, we strengthen communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility,” said Dr. Danenhower.