YMCA seeks to start up in Winnebago

By Doug Schroder

Editor

WINNEBAGO – On Wednesday, Dec 9, a dinner was held in Winnebago by the YMCA of the Rock River Valley to inform residents of the impending move to open a new YMCA in Winnebago and to seek volunteers to help this happen. The YMCA has been analyzing the area to see the potential on what direction they will go to serve the area. Interest has been expressed from CUSD 323 Superintendant Scott Bloomquist, and the school district, among others for the YMCA to come to Winnebago. The dinner was held as a way to get village residents involved. The YMCA is searching for 12-18 people to volunteer for a board of folks who have an interest in seeing a YMCA come to Winnebago, and who want to be involved in the process. YMCA Director Mike Brown went over the process on how to do that at the dinner, and handed out applications. Committees will be formed to seek funding and organize the process to bring a YMCA to Winnebago. They will also be looking where to build, and the amenities residents want.

When asked about how the YMCA will fit in with the new sports complex already being built in Winnebago, Mike Brown responded.

“The sports complex is more designed around private sports and club teams. It is a great addition to the community and the YMCA will be, too. The Y ads value to the community and can play a role with the schools. It attracts growth.”

A new YMCA would serve Pecatonica, Durand, Seward, German Valley, Winnebago, and west Rockford.

Everything is in the beginning stage right now.

Mike Brown