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YMCA Buffalo Niagara receives $2.5 million philanthropic gift from William E. and Ann L. Swan Foundation

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Tue, Dec 13th 2022 02:10 pm

YMCA Buffalo Niagara has received a major charitable contribution of $2.5 million from the William E. & Ann L. Swan Foundation toward the future north Buffalo YMCA branch.

A press release said, “Located on Elmwood Avenue, the new north Buffalo YMCA will feature a plethora of modern amenities, which support the YMCA’s three core areas of impact: youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. YMCA Buffalo Niagara will name the new aquatics center at the branch in the memory of the Swan family, ensuring their legacy lives on forever.”

John Ehrbar, president and CEO of YMCA Buffalo Niagara, said “Not only was Ann Swan a force behind the growth of our community, she truly lived the YMCA mission and proudly championed the YMCA’s cause for many years as a member of the YMCA Buffalo Niagara board of directors. Her philanthropic influence will forever be celebrated in a community she embraced. We are extremely grateful for the William E. and Ann L. Swan Foundation’s support of this important project.”

Swan was born in Buffalo in 1946 and became a standout athlete at Riverside High School. After earning her degree in physical education from the University at Buffalo, she taught physical education and health at Buffalo Public Schools. She and her late-husband, William, started their foundation and supported educational, cultural, health and religious organizations in Western New York.

The press release said, “Since 2003, Swan was an integral part of the YMCA community while serving on the board of directors. As a board member, she proudly advocated for YMCA programs, which enhanced the region’s health and wellness.

“In late 2021, YMCA Buffalo Niagara purchased seven acres of land at 1984 Elmwood Avenue in north Buffalo. The organization is currently seeking additional donors to ensure families in Buffalo have access to critical healthy living and child care programs. Charitable, tax-deductible opportunities are still available, including naming rights for the facility. The YMCA plans to begin construction of the new facility in 2024.”

Locally founded in 1852, YMCA Buffalo Niagara is a charitable, community-based organization committed to providing programs designed to build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The YMCA's focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility is reflected in the variety of programs that are offered to all ages and abilities. A not-for-profit organization, YMCA Buffalo Niagara serves over 100,000 people annually through six membership branches and four camps throughout Western New York, as well as at over 40 community-based program sites. For more information, visit www.YMCABN.org.

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