Sparks Named Executive Director of Neal Center YMCA

Mattoon Area Family YMCA CEO Blake Fairchild announced today that the Y’s Sr. Advisor Tony Sparks will serve as Executive Director for the Neal Center YMCA in Toledo. Sparks started with the Y in 2009 as CEO and has served as Sr. Advisor since 2015. As Executive Director of the Neal Center Y, he will continue to direct the construction project as well as lead the effort of starting the new Y branch in Cumberland County.

“I am pleased that Tony has agreed to be the Neal Center Y’s first Executive Director. I have great confidence in his leadership ability. Tony has done incredible work within our organization and was crucial in the revitalization of the Mattoon YMCA. I am thankful for his outstanding leadership and look forward to continuing to work with him on the Neal Center YMCA.”

Sparks said, “A good friend of the Mattoon Y, Burnham Neal provided the inspiration for the Neal Center YMCA. Following Burnham’s lead, the Neal Foundation and the Neal Center Boards of Directors have made a significant investment to create this wonderful community asset. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with these community leaders in developing the design, securing the necessary community support, obtaining YUSA approval and now the construction of this awesome facility! I am honored to serve in this capacity.”

Greg Ervin, Neal Center YMCA Advisory Board President, said, “Tony has been working on the project for a little over a year and we are excited that he will be our first Executive Director. He has had tremendous success in Mattoon and we are pleased to bring a quality YMCA to Cumberland County.”

The 33,000 square foot Neal Center YMCA is slated to open in December. The Community Capital Campaign is now in its final phase with $850,000 raised towards the goal of $1,000,000.

The Neal Center YMCA will have a variety of employment and volunteer opportunities. More updates and other information is available on the Neal Center YMCA Facebook page and at www.nealcenterymca.org.