Every day we are inspired by their vision, leadership and commitment to making the world a better place.
Here’s one of those stories.
These two words summarized the findings of a five-month study testing the feasibility of a new YMCA on the Upper Cape in Massachusetts: Not yet.
It was late 2017 and not the conclusion the YMCA Cape Cod Board of Directors hoped for at the onset of the study.
But the good news is “not yet” was not, “the end.” In fact, not yet marked the launch of the Y’s multi-year, multi-faceted plan to address concerns, deepen programmatic engagement, secure critical-mission partners, and solidify a future facility location.
YMCA Cape Cod President & CEO, Stacie Peugh turned initial disappointment into clear and focused direction. Working with staff, volunteers and local community leaders, Stacie found opportunity in the challenges and positioned the Y for a successful future on the Upper Cape.
After more than three years of strategic focus, commitment and hard work, the Y re-tested the feasibility for a new facility in 2021. This time around, the conclusion of the study was a clear, confident, and resounding. “YES!” The YMCA Cape Cod was well positioned for a multimillion-dollar capital campaign to bring a new, full facility YMCA to the Upper Cape in the ocean side community of Falmouth, MA.
Same Project. Same Community. What Changed?
CASE
From 2017-2021 the case for support was strengthened as the Y:
LEADERSHIP
By increasing their presence in the community, the Y was able to gain the attention, interest, and trust of several key leaders. These leaders opened doors to others and continue to serve as advocates and advisors to the Y. Stacie and her volunteers knew a Y must be pulled – not pushed – into a community, so they forged relationships with others who would do just that. Each of these leaders bring high levels of interest, access, and influence. Today, as the initial planning for a capital campaign is underway, many of these individuals will make up the leadership cabinet.
“An African proverb sums this experience up nicely. ‘If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.’ Community ‘building’ is the foundation of the Y. To build our physical foundation, we built a community of people who have come together to develop our vision and achieve our goal." - Stacie Peugh, President & CEO, YMCA Cape Cod
Reflecting on the five years since beginning this journey, the Y's success and change of fortune can be credited to Stacie’s willingness to hear what she needed to hear, not what she wanted to hear. For some, “not yet” sounded like the end of the project, but Stacie heard the bell of opportunity and got to work. We’re excited to be working alongside Stacie and her team as they work to build a new Y and serve generations of kids, families and adults on the Upper Cape.
If you are considering a capital renovation or expansion, we can help. A feasibility study with DBD Group will help you uncover the answers you need to determine your best next step. Learn more.