OTTAWA — The Ottawa Community Partnership, Inc., is ending its fundraising effort to bring a new YMCA to Ottawa. The group has been working for two years to raise $8 million for the construction, equipping and start-up of a new YMCA at 11th and Mulberry streets in Ottawa. The group attracted some great donors and big gifts, said John Coen, Ottawa Community Partnership. The group raised $2 million and Ottawa University offered the site at 11th and Mulberry as well as a $1 million matching donation if the fundraiser reached $4 million by Dec. 31, Coen said. However, Coen said it appears that there wouldn’t enough donations to reach the $8 million goal. The group has notified its donors by letter of the decision. “We hope that those who have donated will consider directing their donations to other worthy organizations,” Coen said. “Our goal was to improve the quality of life for people of all ages and there are many local organizations that can help carry out that mission.” Coen said there are many local groups that share the same goal as YMCA.
Tuesday, April 24, 6 a.m.
