Generous contributions and continued support from the Judith & Norman Alix Foundation is being recognized at Sarnia's YMCA Jerry McCaw Family Centre.
Members of the Alix family joined YMCA representatives at the Finch Drive location recently, to see a completed project before another project gets underway.
"In 2023, the Alix Foundation donated $57,391 for a natural playground structure that opened early summer 2024. In 2024, the Alix Foundation donated $60,000 for a planned outdoor camp pavilion," the YMCA said in the media release.
"The new natural playground space was inspired by the concept of ‘risky play’ which helps children, ages three to nine primarily, develop self-confidence, resilience, and risk management skills through play. Children are able to engage in free-flowing exploratory imaginative play allowing them to interact with the natural environment and develop a sense of ownership. The playground includes elements such as a peddle arch, stumps, log climber, rope traverse, horizontal ladder, tunnel, chalk board, wood benches, and triangle sail shades," read the release.
The outdoor camp pavilion will be built on a concrete pad in an open space behind the YMCA branch.
"[It will provide] shade and rain coverage for summer camp programs that serve more than 150 children weekly through July and August, and for other Y purposes such as outdoor fitness programming, freeing up indoor space for additional uses," the Y said.
Construction of the pavilion is planned for this fall.