YMCA of the Fox Cities acquires land for new Apple Creek YMCA

If a gift of diamonds is forever, what can you give the YMCA that will last forever?

In August 2005 the YMCA of the Fox Cities received its single largest gift to date, a $7.6 million donation of land and cash from Bruce and Barbara Purdy.  The donated land is in two parcels on Appleton’s north side.  The first parcel is a 13 acre wooded lot located on County Hwy E that will be the site for a new branch of the YMCA of the Fox Cities named the Apple Creek YMCA.  The second parcel contains 104 acres of some of the most beautiful and interesting land in the Fox Cities and is located within Apple Hill Farms, a housing development on County Hwy EE.  This unique piece of land includes hills, ponds, fields and various wooded areas.  A trail system is being developed in phases to allow YMCA members and Apple Hill Farms homeowners to enjoy the many benefits this property has to offer.  In addition, various school and adult groups will have the opportunity to visit the new Bruce B. Purdy Nature Preserve to learn about the outdoors.

The cash gift will be used to construct the first phase of the Apple Creek YMCA which will include a health and fitness center, locker rooms, child care area, preschool learning area, a nature study classroom, display areas, multipurpose space, wooded courtyard and parking.

When asked why he gave this gift to the YMCA, Bruce Purdy stated “I learned to swim at the YMCA as a young boy, all my children participated in YMCA activities, I served on the YMCA Board and various committees.  I trust the YMCA will meet the needs of the community and carry on my interest in learning about nature and teaching others, preserving it and enjoying the outdoor.”

Apple Creek YMCA construction is expected to begin in 2007 and be completed in 2008.  
Development of the Bruce B. Purdy Nature Preserve will commence immediately with full opening in 2008 along with the Apple Creek YMCA.  If diamonds last forever, this gift is sure to allow young and old alike to enjoy these pristine woods forever.