Our Watershed Moment
A Campaign for the YMCA of Montclair Outdoor Education Center
Renovating The YMCA Outdoor Education Center, home of Camp At The Lake will provide year-round access to outdoor health and wellness, and recreation options for all ages in our community. We believe that equitable access to this space will create a transformational impact for the communities we serve today and for years to come.
The YMCA of Montclair is pleased to announce a campaign to raise $1,500,000 to renovate the YMCA’s Outdoor Education Center. We are calling this campaign RE-IMAGINING CAMP AT THE LAKE: Our watershed moment.
This Project Will:
- Provide access to the outdoors for all
- Expand programming to meet the needs of youth, teens, families and active older adults
- Provide options for open-air health and wellness
Planned Improvements
This 4,400 square-foot Constable Family Lodge will provide critical space to bring outdoor programs and services year-round – significantly increasing the opportunity for more kids and adults to connect with the outdoors. This space will allow the Y to expand the types of programs and services that can supplement the current prevention and support health and wellness programs available in the community.
Lodge Description:
- 4,400 square feet, weatherized lodge
- Fully handicap accessible
- 2,200 square feet of multi-purpose space with break-out spaces
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Nurse’s station
- 4 single-use bathrooms
- 200 square feet of office space
Other Improvements Include:
- The Hara-Koschik Performing Arts Center
- The Turgeon Family Junior Pavilion
- The Fette Family Environmental Education Center
Health Benefits of Nature
Healthcare experts say getting some Vitamin N – for nature - can reduce stress and insomnia, boost energy and revitalize health. A growing body of research links exposure to nature with therapeutic benefits.
Park Rx America (parkrxamerica.org) has shown through its data:
- Time in nature decreases anxiety and negative thinking and lowers levels of depression and stress.
- Time outside is associated with better cognitive development in children.
- Time spent outdoors lessens the effects of cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, mental health, respiratory, neurological, and digestive disorders.
Our Community Commitment
The Y is proud to be a community builder and will create gathering spaces and programs that are vibrant, energetic, positive, responsive, and life-changing. By investing in a bold plan that addresses education, health, and community connections, the Y will bridge the gaps in gaining access to nature and achieving the many related health benefits for all who visit.
For more information, contact Anneke Demarest, Chief Development Officer, at [email protected].
