Efforts to build a YMCA in Falmouth has received a $10 million boost.
The boost came from Donald R. Smith and Pamela Burkes-Smith.
Mr. Smith is the owner of 260 Valvoline oil change franchises across the country, including the Valvoline on Main Street.
The donation, which is the largest single donation YMCA Cape Cod has received in its 58-year history, is meant as a tribute to Mr. Smith’s parents, Donald and Dottie Smith.
The facility, planned for Brick Kiln Road with a total cost of $35 million, will officially be named the Don & Dottie Smith YMCA.
The President and CEO of YMCA Cape Cod, Stacie Peugh called the Smiths’ gift “awe-inspiring”. “With their gift, Don and Dottie Smith are ensuring this commitment will transform the lives of children, families, and adults of the Upper Cape for generations to come.” Ms. Peugh said.
“We believe in the power of community and the importance of leaving a legacy for our extended family,” said Mr. Smith. With the addition of a YMCA in Falmouth, the Smith family is hoping their gift will encourage others to invest in the future of the community.
With this donation, YMCA officials said work on the Falmouth project could begin as early as next Fall.