The Y is pleased to announce it has received a $10,000 donation from the Masonic Fraternity of Oklahoma to support the YMCA MILITARY WELCOME CENTER at Will Rogers World Airport. Operating primarily with the help of volunteers and community support, the YMCA MILITARY WELCOME CENTER offers a restful and relaxing atmosphere to traveling military personnel and their families at no cost.
“The mission of our Foundation is to positively affect Oklahomans from every walk of life,” said John Logan, Executive Director of the Masonic Charity Foundation of Oklahoma. “Supporting our active military, veterans and their families is a vital part of being an Oklahoman.” Rick Allison, grand master of Masons, presented a check for $10,000 to David Foster, executive director of the EARLYWINE PARK YMCA, and Steven Lee, center director of the YMCA MILITARY WELCOME CENTER, so thousands of military personnel can enjoy a warm enviromnment in which to rest and relax during extended layovers. “We are proud to be able to provide this service to the men and women who have made a commitment to serve our country,” Foster said. “This center not only provides snacks and entertainment, but a place where YMCA volunteers can help solve problems, share experiences and offer encouragement.” The YMCA OF GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY opened the doors of the YMCA MILITARY WELCOME CENTER on June 4, 2007. Since that time, more than 190,000 military personnel have had a place to connect with family and friends during extended layovers at Will Rogers World Airport while en route to military bases across the globe. The YMCA MILITARY WELCOME CENTER offers comfortable seating, television, complimentary Internet access and cell phone usage as well as complimentary snacks and beverages, video games and other means of entertainment at no cost to traveling military personnel and their families.
To learn more about the Y and programming that supports military families, contact David Foster, Executive Director for the EARLYWINE PARK YMCA at 405 297 7510 or dfoster@ymcaokc.org or visit ymcaokc.org/military-outreach.
