ARTICLE
YMCA Cape Cod and Falmouth Aquatics have taken a major step forward towards a shared vision to serve the needs of the Upper Cape Community in creating a state-of-the-art YMCA facility in Falmouth. An official Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed by both organizations. Both organizations share the vision of building and operating a YMCA facility in Falmouth that delivers programs and services in the areas of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility for the Upper Cape communities of Falmouth, Mashpee, Bourne, and Sandwich. The effort will combine the results of over 6 years of background work done. Nurturing the potential of youth and year-round swimming programs for all ages and audiences are at the top of the list of needs to fulfill for both organizations. Both organizations agree to unite their efforts under the YMCA structure. The new facility will be established as a branch of the YMCA Cape Cod. Falmouth Aquatics joins the YMCA structure with three dedicated seats on the YMCA Board of Directors with additional volunteer participation by Falmouth Aquatics in all relevant YMCA board committees, including the Falmouth YMCA Facility Development Committee, Finance Committee, and Fundraising Planning Committee. "After months of productive discussions about shared goals and visions, we have developed a strong and effective partnership. The signing of this MOU is the first step in the journey ahead. There is a lot of work to do and we are happy to be able to share those responsibilities in good faith and with mutual trust. The effort to bring a YMCA facility and services to the Upper Cape is stronger when we work together." Stacie Peugh, CEO, YMCA Cape Cod and Jim Preisig, Chair, Falmouth Aquatics Key Next Steps: • Engage members of both organizations in all phases of due diligence and advance planning to ensure a financially and environmentally sustainable facility • Combine resources to maximize respective capacity, capabilities, expertise, community partnerships, and relationships with federal agencies, state and local government. • Cultivate individual and community relationships in order to conduct a single focused capital campaign