Renovation Project
A local community group has kicked off its Pool Pride Campaign to raise funds to renovate the Ellen Shapiro Natatorium located at Wooster High School. The Natatorium is 25 years old and is in need of several renovations. The goal of the fundraiser is to raise $1 million in order to restore the facility to its original pristine condition.
The natatorium not only serves the high school swim program, but the YMCA, College of Wooster and the entire Wooster community. It is one of the grandest natatoriums in Ohio, measuring 50 meters by 25 yards.
“The natatorium has enriched the lives of Wooster residents for the past 25 years,” said Beth Davis, chairperson for the 2018 Natatorium Renovation Project. “Many students learned how to swim in this very facility. It is truly a staple of the Wooster community. Through the Pool Pride campaign, we hope to raise the funds needed to make improvements to this outstanding facility so the community can continue to enjoy it for generations to come.”
The funds raised will cover the cost of projects, including extensive locker room renovations, draining and painting the pool, the installation of energy efficient Luminaire lighting and a surround sound system, window and door replacements and improvement to the ventilation and the handicap accessibility of the facility.
Donations can be made at various levels. These levels are as follows: “Splash” for donations of $99 and under; “Whitecap” for donations of $100 - $499; “Breaker” for donations of $500 - $999; “Wave” for donations of $1,000 - $4,999; “Roller” for donations of $5,000 - $9,999; and “Tsunami” for donations of $10,000 or more.
Individual donors, donor families and corporate donors who contribute $500 or more will have their names listed on plaques in the natatorium. There are also several opportunities for naming rights for donors within the Ellen Shapiro Natatorium. Naming right opportunities can be discussed by contacting Davis at debesofi@gmail.com. Additional information about donor recognition will be shared in the coming months.
Donations are being accepted now through Dec. 31, 2017. There will be an extension to Jan. 5, 2018, for individuals who would like to split their donation into two tax years. The renovations are planned to begin in April of 2018, with a projected completion date of Aug. 31, 2018.
Checks can be made payable and sent to the Wayne County Community Foundation, 517 N. Market Street, Wooster, Ohio 44691. Please write “2018 Natatorium Renovation Fund” in the memo area.