Together Treasure Valley, a collaboration of area businesses, provided $50,000 to help build a splash pad – dubbed “the Spray Grounds” – at the South Meridian YMCA Aquatic Center for kids to enjoy. The financial gift matches the first $50,000 in community campaign donations raised by the Aquatic Center. The splash pad will be located in a fenced area adjacent to the community park and will be utilized by YMCA members as part of the overall Aquatic Center.
“Few things bring the Treasure Valley together like the Spray Grounds at the new Aquatic Center,” said David Duro, President and CEO of the Treasure Valley YMCA. “People of all ages, income levels, cultures and beliefs will participate in programs that provide swim instruction and water safety, rehabilitation, fitness, competition and fun. Since the Y makes the promise that no one is turned away due to inability to pay, the Together Treasure Valley Spray Grounds and the entire YMCA is accessible to all.”
The Aquatic Center itself is a welcome addition to the Meridian community. Until now, Meridian has been the largest community in Idaho without an indoor aquatic center, and local residents agree that resolving this issue is a high priority. According to a 2015 Meridian Parks and Recreation survey, community members ranked an aquatic facility as the top indoor need in Meridian, with local residents also expressing a strong desire for swim lessons and aquatic programs. The importance of the center is underscored by the fact that Idaho has one of the five highest drowning rates in the nation. The good news is that swimming lessons reduce the risk of childhood drowning by 88%, and the new Aquatic Center will now provide these vital aquatic services to the people of Meridian.https://www.ymcatvidaho.org/2019/07/construction-aquatic-center-south-meridian-ymca-begin/
Learn more here: South Meridian YMCA Aquatic Center
