Eau Claire, WI

Strategic Growth Through Acquisition

While many purpose-driven organizations grow from the ground up, sometimes expansion through acquisition is the smarter path—especially for non-profits.

That’s the approach the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, took when it decided to broaden its reach. With guidance from the Gro team's REDAO (Real Estate Development Assessment Optimization) process, the Y seized the opportunity to acquire a commercial gym, adding a third full-service facility to serve the city’s underserved south side—and welcoming several hundred new members in the process.

"We're committed to ensuring accessibility for all parts of town, not just the north side," says Derek White, president and CEO of the Eau Claire Y. "Our goal is to make the YMCA a resource that everyone can reach, no matter where they live."

The newly-acquired 50,000-square-foot facility, originally built in 2008, boasts a weight room, cardio equipment, group exercise studios, a basketball court, pool, sauna, childcare services, and administrative offices. Previous gym members will now enjoy full access to this and other Y locations alongside the current 18,000 YMCA members.

The acquisition was financed through general operating funds, eliminating the need for a capital campaign and allowing the YMCA to focus on immediate service expansion without delay.