I am excited to share that we are expanding the family of YMCAs in Southwest Florida to include the two facilities of CORE SRQ effective November 1st.
On October 26th, unanimous votes were made to unify YMCA of Southwest Florida and CoreSRQ by both organizations’ governing boards. This decision comes from the vision and commitment to strengthening community throughout the region and ensuring every individual has access to the resources needed to thrive. Next month, we will welcome Sarasota City YMCA and Palmer Ranch YMCA to our association, YMCA of Southwest Florida. Formerly Core SRQ’s North and South branches, these facilities are located at 1075 S. Euclid Ave. and 8301 Potter Park Drive, Sarasota. And these branches will continue to be places the community loves.
It’s hard to describe the immense joy I feel following the unification of these two incredible organizations. However, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the unwavering commitment that paved the path to this moment. The true heroes of this union who helped this possible are the volunteers, stakeholders, members and staff of CoreSRQ organization. Their dedication is beyond comparison. And I am honored to have them join our family and team.
These individuals pushed through all adversity to continue to serve the community of Sarasota and they made it possible for two operating facilities to join our association as we work together to touch the lives of every individual in our service area through programs that promote healthy living, youth development and social responsibility.
This unification will create a stronger YMCA for the entire community. Together, we are ten unique branches that will continue to focus on the individual needs of each community within the YMCA of Southwest Florida family. Our goal is and always will be to fulfill our mission within our evolving communities as we advance the work of our Y. As a united organization, we will amplify our impact and be a stronger Y than ever before.
It is my promise to each of you and those joining our organization to keep the YMCA mission steadfast through all actions. I genuinely believe in the truth that we are better together. And as a leader in the YMCA movement and President and CEO of YMCA of Southwest Florida, I have never been more encouraged for the future.
Sincerely,
Gene T. Jones
President and CEO
YMCA of Southwest Florida