This Week at Rotary
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
President Elect Hannah Beth filled in for President Jason while he is on vacation this week. She did an amazing job and will be a great president next year!
Where Play Meets Possibility
Charity Lezama, Salem YMCA
Former Salem Rotarian Charity Lezama returned to the Club to share an exciting project at the Salem YMCA. The YMCA is taking an innovative step to address a growing need for local families by transforming its unused rooftop into a vibrant outdoor playground for children in its childcare programs.
Currently, more than 200 children enrolled in the YMCA's childcare programs do not have access to a dedicated outdoor play space. In a city where available land is limited, this rooftop transformation will provide a safe, engaging environment where children can learn, explore, and thrive every day.
Access to outdoor play is essential to healthy child development. Time spent outside encourages curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving while supporting emotional well-being and reducing stress. Outdoor activity also helps children build strength, coordination, and lifelong healthy habits, while creating opportunities to develop teamwork, communication, and an appreciation for the natural world.
The rooftop playground will include:
• Tricycle track
• Climbing structures and play mounds
• Multipurpose court
• Children's bathrooms
• Shade structures
• Green spaces and gardens
The total investment for the project is $4.5 million. Thanks to strong early support, $3 million has already been secured through state capital grants, generous donors, and an investment from the YMCA of the North Shore. The remaining $1.5 million will be raised through a community capital campaign, of which they have $190,00 more to raise.
Supporters can help make this vision a reality by making a multi-year pledge, giving a one-time gift, recommending a grant through a Donor-Advised Fund, or taking advantage of an employer matching gift program.
More than a playground, this project represents a long-term investment in Salem's children, families, and future. By creating a dedicated outdoor space for play, learning, and connection, the Salem YMCA is reinforcing its commitment to youth development, health, and equity while ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow and succeed. For more information on how you can support this project, reach out to Charity.
The following are renderings of the new playground.
50: 50 Raffle
