Making the presentation, from left, are Rob Chambers, VP Sales; Cindy Barnett, Legal; Tony Cutshall, VP Medical Affairs; Chad Zaucha, Kosciusko Community YMCA CEO; Mike Coon, Medical Affairs; and Mindy Tinsley, Director Worldwide Communications. (Photo provided)

DePuy Synthes Joint Reconstruction Inc., a global leader in devices for joint replacement, recently pledged $1 million to the Kosciusko Community YMCA.

The gift will be used in support of the construction of a new YMCA facility to be built on U.S. 30 and Mariner Drive. While the Y hopes to open the new facility in early 2015, the size, scope and timing will ultimately be determined by the generosity of the community during the organization’s comprehensive fundraising efforts.

“We are so appreciative to DePuy for this generous gift, which will allow us to continue to make our community stronger and more vibrant,” said Chad Zaucha, YMCA CEO. “The YMCA is about bringing people together, meeting local community need, and giving children, families and adults a healthier, safer place to live. This gift will help us accomplish that for future generations.”

Initial plans for the new Y include a health and wellness center, lap pool, instructional warm water pool, multi-purpose gathering spaces, a youth and teen center, a double gymnasium and outdoor space for day camp.

“Warsaw is the Orthopaedics Capital of the World, so its fitting that our community comes together to invest in a new YMCA facility that will energize members of our community to remain active throughout their lives,” said Andrew Ekdahl, Worldwide President, DePuy Synthes Joint Reconstruction. “We hope this donation from DePuy Synthes, combined with others from businesses and individuals in our area, will help the YMCA create a new facility that will be a vibrant centerpiece and a source of pride for our community.”

“The Y has been serving the community for more than 50 years. As the needs of the community change and grow, it is up to all of us to look at new ways of helping our neighbors be healthy, safe and supported,” said Zaucha. “We know we can’t do it alone and that our community is stronger when we work together. That is why we are so grateful for the support of DePuy Synthes Joint Reconstruction and our other generous donors, volunteers, members and partners. Together we can improve the lives of all who live and work in Kosciusko County.”

Annually, the Kosciusko Community YMCA serves nearly 13,500 children and adults through membership and programs. Every day, the Y works side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure everyone regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and thrive, evidenced in the more than $136,685 in scholarships and financial assistance distributed last year alone.