The OrthoIndy Foundation has agreed to contribute $3 million toward construction of the $10 million YMCA in Pike Township. In recognition of this gift, the new YMCA will be named the OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA and will be located at 5315 Lafayette Road in Pike Township.
A key factor in the OrthoIndy Foundation’s decision to support the project is the new Y’s inclusion of veteran-focused programming. In addition to being a full-service facility open to the public, the new YMCA will include programs, facilities and services tailored to U.S. military service members, veterans and their families.
A focus on veterans
Late last year, the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center announced a partnership with a new Pike Y to connect traditional clinical VA healthcare to the full menu of YMCA programs. The OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA will be the nation’s first YMCA to feature such veteran-focused medical services.
“Since it was launched in 2012, the OrthoIndy Foundation has sought an opportunity to make a profound, lasting impact on the lives of veterans,” said OrthoIndy Foundation Chairman Dr. John Dietz. “We’re proud to partner with the Y on a facility that not only meets that aim but also can serve as a model for others across America.”
OrthoIndy Foundation’s mission
The OrthoIndy Foundation was founded to improve mobility and function, especially for veterans and the elderly. In addition to contributing toward the building of the new YMCA, funds from the trust are used to match employee giving and support programs such as Habitat for Humanity homes for veterans and Servants at Work, which builds access ramps for the disabled.
“The OrthoIndy Foundation has proven to be the perfect partner on the new YMCA in Pike Township,” said YMCA of Greater Indianapolis President and CEO Eric Ellsworth. “Our goals align, and their team has the passion and means to support our vision of serving veterans in new and exciting ways.”
A connection to veterans
OrthoIndy has a number of connections to the military, including a staff that includes veterans and people currently serving in the reserves and Indiana National Guard. Dr. Dietz himself is a former U.S. Army Ranger and U.S. Military Academy at West Point graduate who first became interested in orthopedic surgery as a result of injuries sustained as he was parachuting from a plane during a training mission. Even before he healed from his injuries, he interviewed to enter medical school at Duke University. He served for a number of years as a U.S. Army surgeon before leaving the service for private practice.
Twelve acres of land for the new Y has been generously provided by the Metropolitan School District of Pike Township. Demand has overwhelmed the current YMCA in Pike Township, where space is limited and traditional Y services, such as a pool and gymnasium, are unavailable. The OrthoIndy Foundation Y will be a larger facility and serve many more members.
Including the OrthoIndy Foundation gift, the YMCA has raised $7 million of the $10 million needed to fully fund the new facility. Architectural plans are underway, and a groundbreaking will occur once the remaining $3 is raised. Those interested in contributing to the project should contact YMCA Chief Development Officer Jim Wood at jwood@indymca.org.
OrthoIndy Foundation
In December 2012, OrthoIndy established and funded the OrthoIndy Foundation. The mission of the foundation is to improve mobility and function, specifically for the residents of Central Indiana – with a particular emphasis on veterans and the elderly – by benefiting the end users to increase self-sufficiency, promote wellness, and improve the quality of life for those affected by orthopedic issues.
Management of the OrthoIndy Foundation’s funds was entrusted to the Central Indiana Community Foundation (CICF). CICF performs all due diligence activities and vetting of grant requests by 501(c) 3 non-profits. For more information, please visit orthoindy.com/foundation.
About the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis
The YMCA of Greater Indianapolis serves more than 250,000 people in diverse communities throughout greater Indianapolis. The YMCA brings together young and old, men and women, people of all faiths, backgrounds and incomes. Last year, the YMCA provided $7 million in scholarships, subsidies and underwritten programs and community services in low-income neighborhoods. Through 13 locations and in collaboration with more than 200 churches, schools and other community groups and organizations, the YMCA is also able to extend its program opportunities throughout central Indiana and into the heart of urban neighborhoods. To donate or for more information about YMCA programs and services, visit www.OurCauseIsYou.org.
