Sports and Wellness Complex Fundraising Underway

 

The official fundraising kick-off for Effingham's Richard E. Workman Sports and Wellness Complex is officially underway and will run through February, 2014, according to information released by Joedy Hightower, President/CEO of the Effingham County Community Foundation, who is also serving as chair for the fundraising effort.

 

The Complex, which will include multi-sport courts for basketball and volleyball, an aquatics center with competitive and recreation/therapy pools, indoor walking/running track, and a fitness center, is being made available in large part through the generosity of Rick and Angie Workman.  Supporters say the Complex will provide an inexpensive way for all residents of Effingham and surrounding areas to get and stay healthy.

 

The facility will also include a wing that will set the stage for expansion of the Community Wellness Center of St. Anthony's Memorial Hospital.  Current rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational and speech therapy, will relocate from the hospital campus to an 8,000 square foot facility within the Sports & Wellness Complex.

 

The fundraising committee, which includes many well-known citizens of Effingham, will be working to raise $3 million in capital funds.  The full cost of building the facility is $13.5 million.  Along with the $5 million donated by the Workman's, the Park District will issue debt certificates and borrow the remaining funds.  No new taxes will be levied to build the Complex.

 

Virginia-based Rink Management Services Corporation, which operates recreational facilities across the United States, will manage the facility for the Park District.  Plans are to break ground in 2014 and open for business in 2015.

 

Anyone donating $1,000 or more will be recognized publically in the Complex itself, and there are numerous naming and sponsorship opportunities at higher donation levels for local businesses and philanthropists who want to be associated with this stellar community asset.  For more information on the campaign or the Complex itself contact Joedy Hightower at 217-342-4988 or Jeff Althoff, at 217-342-4415.