BEAVER DAM, Wis. – The YMCA of Dodge County celebrated the grand opening of a $5.1 million expansion that brings new childcare capacity, a modern fieldhouse and a playground to the community. The project was fully funded by local donations, with no debt incurred.
Childcare Center Expands Access for Families
The new Beaver Dam Community Hospital Foundation Child Development Center will serve children from infancy through age five, raising the YMCA’s total childcare capacity to more than 200 spots. The center is slated to begin welcoming children on Monday, Nov. 2, pending final state licensing approval.
State‑of‑the‑art Fieldhouse and Playground
The expansion also includes the Horicon Bank Fieldhouse, featuring 14 basketball hoops, six pickleball courts, three volleyball courts and an indoor walking and running track. A new McKinstry playground adds additional recreational space for families.
Community Support Drives Project
YMCA CEO Dirk Langfoss said the project began as a $3.7 million effort, but community generosity pushed the total to $5.1 million, fully fundraised without taking on debt. The Beaver Dam Community Hospital Foundation contributed a $1.5 million matching gift pledge, while Horicon Bank supported the fieldhouse. Local families and businesses also donated, reflecting the town’s “amazing” generosity, according to Tracy Propst, executive director of the Beaver Dam Chamber & Visitor Center.
Economic and Workforce Benefits
Local leaders note that expanding reliable childcare is vital for families and for businesses seeking to recruit and retain workers in rural areas. The new facilities provide a valuable asset for newcomers to the community, helping them find a safe, supportive environment for their children.
Looking Ahead
The Horicon Bank Fieldhouse officially opened on Friday, Oct. 30, while the childcare center will open shortly thereafter. Families interested in enrollment can visit the YMCA of Dodge County’s website for more information.
Original reporting: NBC15 WMTV (Gray) – local — read the source article.
