“We know it will enhance the quality of life of older persons,” said Jill Hreben, Otterbein president and CEO. “In keeping with our United Methodist tradition, we seek to enhance the quality of life for older persons. It’s a calling.”
The Life Enrichment Center is a collaborative effort between Otterbein and the Countryside YMCA in Lebanon.
The partnership seemed a natural fit, said YMCA President and CEO Mike Carroll, because both organizations aim to improve the quality of life. The center will be operated by the Countryside YMCA for Otterbein residents and non-residents.
“Where you don’t have faith, connectiveness and wellness, there is no quality of life,” Carroll said referring to three cores of Otterbein. “The LEC will continue to grow those three elements.”
The facility is expected to be completed in the fall of 2012 in time for Otterbein’s 100th anniversary, which will be kicked off with a gala on April 28.
The building is planned to include a warm water pool and fitness center on the lower level, a walking track, community room, activity studios and lounge on the first floor, and 24 residential apartments on the upper three floors.
A current maintenance building will be connected to the center will be remodeled into Life Enrichment Center West and feature a beauty shop and coffee shop.
The capital campaign for the Life Enrichment Center exceeded its $3 million goal by nearly $400,000.
There were 21 donations of at least $25,000. Eight of those were of $50,000, including $500,000 from the James M. Cox Jr. Foundation.
“We’re delighted the James M. Cox Foundation is able to contribute to this worthwhile cause,” said Julia Wallace, Cox Media Group Ohio market vice president. “It will improve the lives of so many people.”
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