Southeast Ventura County YMCA Receives $1 Million Grant From State Budget For Simi Valley Family YMCA Expansion Project

This financial investment from the state will bring the YMCA closer to fully funding the $7.5 million project and achieve YMCA leadership's objectives of funding the project through a partnership of local philanthropy, business investments and public/government funding.

Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, a leading supporter of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA, advocated and secured this award to bring expanded programs, services and facilities that are accessible to all members of the Simi Valley community.

"I'm pleased to help bring state resources back to our community to support the renovation of the Simi Valley YMCA," said Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin. "The YMCA provides valuable programs and opportunities that strengthen our community, and I'm proud to support its continued work serving local children, families and residents."

The expansion project is designed to increase the facility's overall capacity, add modernized program spaces and infrastructure and expand healthy living, youth and family development and social engagement programs and services for community members.

"We are incredibly grateful to Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, her team and our state leadership for recognizing the vital role that the Southeast Ventura YMCA plays in the region and specifically the critical need for the Simi Valley Family Y branch expansion," said Ronnie Stone, President & CEO of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA. "This grant is a game-changer for us in serving youth and families. It takes us a giant step closer to fully funding the $7.5 million capital expansion project. We have another $1.5 million to go to achieve the dream of funding it through a partnership of local philanthropy, public funds, foundations and internal funds designated for this project."

Key highlights of the expansion project include:

Expanded Program Space: Creation of new dedicated areas including a full-size gymnasium, enlarged healthy living and Kids' Zone spaces, three multipurpose rooms, individual family shower rooms and more for youth and family development, healthy living programing for all ages, and community use.

Increased Capacity: The new 40,000 square foot space will triple the Y's impact to serve the growing community of Simi Valley.

Modernized Accessibility: The modernized facility and upgrades will provide inclusive access for all members of the community.

Economic Impact: Creation of new jobs and expanded long-term employment opportunities within the Simi Valley Y.

Final construction permits were approved from the City of Simi Valley in early October. Senior Executive Director Kris Turner said, "We are immensely grateful to the City for their review and approval. Demolition has started with construction following and we can now begin looking forward to the Grand Reopening next fall."

For more information about the expansion project or to learn how to get involved, visit https://www.sevymca.org/capital-expansion-project.

About the Simi Valley YMCA:
The Simi Valley Family YMCA has been part of the community since 1984. It is a branch of the Southeast Ventura County YMCA serving the region since 1964. The YMCA is a 501c(3) charitable organization dedicated to engaging all members of the community in activities that invite people to engage with their community, grow and thrive through activities focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility