Article By: The Houston Herald 

The Cabool Community Center YMCA, a 43,630 square foot facility, is closer to becoming a reality thanks to a $2 million state contribution, covering 25% of the project cost.

The Cabool Community Center YMCA committee's mission is to build and sustain a new anchor institution to enhance the quality of life for all ages in the community and surrounding areas.

The new YMCA would include a community room with a full kitchen, two full-sized courts, fitness equipment, studios, childcare, after-school programs and an indoor walking/running track.

In June, the committee secured $2 million in state funding for the $8 million project, leaving $6 million to be raised from donors. State Rep. Bennie Cook, R-Houston, and State Sen. Karla Eslinger, R-Wasola, helped secure the money.

Committee member Chris Owen has long been dedicated to fundraising.

“In 2019, we raised $750 through a car wash to support the YMCA's football program,” Owen said.

Still, to Owen it’s about more than just supporting the community through small fundraisers, he wants to provide long-term solutions.

“This new facility would have significant economic, health and entertainment benefits to our area,” he said.

According to Owen, a generous individual purchased 19 acres near Montgomery Lake in Cabool, intending to transfer it to the committee for “below market value.”

The committee is now focused on raising the remaining funds.

“Spreading the word is crucial,” Owen said. “Every donation counts, and everyone knows someone who can help us reach our goal.”  

If all goes well, the facility could break ground next summer.

Owen will update the Cabool City Council on Aug. 19. While the city is aiding with infrastructure planning, it will not own the project.

“The city nor the YMCA will have ownership of the building and location,” Owen said. “Instead it will belong to a new nonprofit we are in the process of applying for to ensure this project can benefit the community for several years.”

A smaller YMCA facility – lacking several of the desired amenities of the new location – has operated since 1996 in Cabool on Business U.S. 60. Other YMCAs are situated at Willow Springs, Mountain Grove and Seymour.

For more information or to contribute, contact Owen at 254-371-4174 (cowen@cabool.k12. mo.us) or Sharon Monter at 417-252-1606 (snichols@ ofymca.org).