Mid-Willamette Family YMCA Veterans Housing
Last week, the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA invited the community to mark the groundbreaking of a new affordable housing complex for veterans. Located just off Price Road across from Timber Linn Park, the 36,000-square-foot building will provide 38 homes for veterans. The building features a large central courtyard, along with common areas and support spaces designed to foster connection and sustain a strong sense of community among residents.
MC and President of the Mid-Willamette Family YMCA Veterans Housing Board Kerry Johnson elegantly led the event. Throughout the ceremony, there were many reminders of the honor and dignity of those who have served and continue to serve. The marching of the Color Guard, the singing of the national anthem, reflections offered in prayer, and the playing of the bagpipes all resonated deeply.
There were many inspiring speakers whose partnership and commitment made this project happen. Speakers included Mid-Willamette Family YMCA Chief Executive Officer Chris Reese, Oregon State Senator Sara Gelser Blouin, Dru Draper on behalf of Oregon State Representative Shelly Boshart Davis, Mayor of Albany Alex Johnson II, and Oregon Housing and Community Services Director Andrea Bell. Kerry Johnson also gave special recognition to Mid-Willamette Family YMCA Veterans Housing Board Member Sandi Gordon for her work on the project.
The ceremony culminated in the literal groundbreaking that signifies the beginning of construction. CEO of Home First Development Benjamin Pray joined the others for this ritual.
After the official groundbreaking, members of the development, architecture, and construction team joined in. These include people from Home First Development, Rowell Brokaw, and Beaudin Construction. The team is excited to begin this next phase of the project. We are one giant step closer to offering more veterans a place they can call home.
To learn more about the project, visit midvalleyyvetshousing.com.
