YMCA Cape Cod – together with healthcare partner Community Health Center – officially broke ground Saturday on The Don & Dottie Smith YMCA, marking a historic milestone for the Upper Cape community and the beginning of construction on a long-awaited permanent home for expanded YMCA programs and services.
Local leaders, donors, community partners, and families gathered at the construction site to celebrate the launch of the next phase of this transformational project. The ceremony included remarks from YMCA Cape Cod President & CEO Stacie Peugh, US Representative Bill Keating, Jack Richardson from MA Senator Dylan Fernandes’ office, lead donors Don Smith and Pamela Burkes-Smith, Community Health Center CEO Karen Gardner, and Campaign Co-Chair Eileen Miskell who have played key roles in advancing the vision for a full-service YMCA on the Upper Cape.
“Today, with the support of generous donors, dedicated volunteers, committed staff, and strong community partners, we break ground on The Don & Dottie Smith YMCA—a place designed to meet critical needs and serve generations to come,” said Stacie Peugh, President & CEO of YMCA Cape Cod. “To all the staff, volunteers, and donors who have helped make today possible, please know your generosity has helped turn a dream into a future. Thank you for your belief, your partnership, and your heart. We are about to create something truly special here.”
Over 300 members of the community came out to celebrate this momentous event which was sponsored by Dellbrook/JKS, InnSeason Resorts, and Hutker Architects.
The Don & Dottie Smith YMCA will serve as a vibrant hub for wellness, childcare, youth development, and community connection. Once completed, the facility will include a fully equipped wellness center, group exercise studios, warm water and lap pools, Child Watch and a Kids’ Adventure Center, teen and intergenerational spaces, community and multipurpose rooms, outdoor camp and recreation areas, and dedicated space for key community partners, including the Community Health Center.
This new branch will allow the Y to expand its transformative programs—from swim lessons and chronic disease prevention to senior wellness, and youth leadership—that foster health, belonging, and opportunity for all.