The Midland YMCA announced it has received a $1 million donation from Scharbauer Foundation, Inc. to commence its A Better Place to Connect – Downtown Aquatic & Social Expansion capital campaign.
The campaign aims to add an indoor aquatic center to the downtown branch at 800 N. Big Spring St. According to a Facebook post by the Midland YMCA, the organization described Scharbauer’s donation as “a transformational gift.”
“This gift isn’t just a number — it’s an investment in health, safety, connection and community for generations to come,” the post said. Upon completion of the project, the facility will feature a zero-entry pool, lap lanes, whirlpool, recreational slide and upgraded wet areas. The zero-entry pool will have an entrance with a gradual, sloped transition into the water instead of stairs or ladders.
According to the YMCA, the new zero-entry pool will be constructed on the facility’s first floor and will replace the current 70-year-old pool located on the second floor. “We are deeply grateful to the Scharbauer Foundation for believing in the YMCA’s mission and for helping bring our vision of a state-of-the-art indoor aquatic and social facility to life,” the YMCA said. The nonprofit organization said it will provide updates as the project progresses.