SML gets big-time help for reducing debt

A big name is giving the fundraising drive for the Smith Mountain Lake YMCA, which begins Sunday, a big boost.

Well-known author and part-time lake resident David Baldacci is auctioning off the rights to name a character in his next book at “SOLD!” – A Night at the Auction, a Sept. 27 fundraiser for the YMCA. In addition to determining the name, the highest bidder will receive an autographed copy of the yet-to-be-named book after it’s published.

The YMCA needs to raise $2 million to pay its debt. If it doesn’t raise at least $600,000 by Oct. 15, hours could be cut, the number of classes reduced or, in the worst case, the doors closed, according to Andrea Fansler, director of the SML branch.

The SML facility is a branch of the Franklin County Family YMCA, which is expected to name Jim Currie as the new chief executive officer. He will take over the operation of the SML, Ferrum and Rocky Mount branches from interim CEO Garry Angle, who will become chief financial officer.

The SML YMCA was initially funded by a capital fundraising campaign in 2006. Donors pledged about $1 million, and a loan was secured with Member One.

“It was bad timing,” Fansler said.

In 2008, the year the facility opened, the economy took a dive, and many donors were unable to fulfill their pledges, which resulted in a loss of $300,000.

The bank has allowed the interest only to be paid for the past four years, but bank regulations require that payments on the interest and principal start on Oct. 15.

An anonymous donor pledged to match each dollar donated up to $300,000 until that day. Fansler said donors already have pledged $40,000.

The Sept. 27 auction also will include art and a baby grand piano. It will be held from 6 until 10 p.m. at the YMCA, located at 293 FirstWatch Drive in the LakeWatch Plantation subdivision. Items of value are still being accepted for the fundraiser, Fansler said.

The Willard Companies also is pitching in to help reduce the debt. On Oct. 19, it will sponsor Oktoberfest at Westlake Towne Center and a 5K trail race, with all proceeds benefiting the YMCA’s campaign.

Fansler said the YMCA will continue to collect funds for the note after the fundraisers are over. The members’ fees sustain general operating expenses only. She doesn’t expect the fees to increase because of the debt. Monthly memberships are $44 for individuals, $60 for couples and $66 for families of three or more.

Fansler said she’s confident the community will come together so the facility can continue normal operating hours and services for its more than 500 members.

“We’re just trying to get ourselves in a better situation,” she said.

She said that the facility has seen growth in membership at the YMCA, which features two indoor tennis courts and nearly 40 classes a week from yoga to cycling to Tai Chi.

“We’ve got a lot of members come in, and that’s where they socialize,” she said.

The Y also offers financial assistance for prospective members who are unable to pay, she added.

Fansler said volunteers are stepping forward to help with the campaign.

“It’s very much a group effort, and it always has been with this community,” she said.

For more information on the drive or to donate, call 721-9622 or email afansler@franklincountyymca.org.

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