Owen Sound, ON – A memorable and heartfelt ceremony took place Monday, March 31 at the YMCA Health, Fitness & Aquatics facility in Owen Sound, where Tom Rice and Sonya Mount were presented with the prestigious King Charles III Coronation Medal. This distinguished honour was awarded in recognition of their exceptional leadership and contributions to the community, particularly as co-chairs of the YMCA’s Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre Capital Campaign.
The King Charles III Coronation Medal was introduced in early 2024 to commemorate the historic Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The medal honours individuals who have made outstanding contributions to their communities.
In attendance at the ceremony were key community figures, including Mayor Ian Boddy, who presented the recipients with certificates for their outstanding community service. Mayor Boddy praised Tom and Sonya for their leadership and commitment to Owen Sound and Grey Bruce. He shared how the vibrant, welcoming atmosphere of the facility draws people to the community, with people smiling and connecting everyday.
The YMCA’s Capital Campaign for the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre, led by Tom and Sonya, raised a remarkable $6.3 million, far exceeding the original fundraising goal. This campaign was critical to expanding the YMCA’s facilities and ensuring the center could continue offering vital health, fitness, and recreation services to the community.
As Gayle Graham, retired CEO of the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, noted, “The success of the campaign and the development of this facility would not have been possible without the extraordinary leadership of Sonya and Tom. They were instrumental from the very start, and their tireless efforts have shaped our community in lasting and meaningful ways. While this was certainly a team effort—supported by volunteers, staff, and the community—it was Tom and Sonya’s leadership that truly drove the success of the capital campaign and the realization of this important project.”
The ceremony also highlighted the journey of the Capital Campaign, noting a major milestone in the YMCA’s continued success which was reached in July 2024, when the City of Owen Sound and the YMCA signed a new 20-year operational agreement. This long-term partnership solidifies the future of the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre, securing the YMCA’s ability to provide essential services and support to the region for decades to come.
Looking ahead, the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is committed to ensuring the long-term success and sustainability of its programs and services within the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre. To support this, the YMCA commissioned the engineering firm Ameresco to assess the facility’s needs, which projected nearly $2 million in capital investments required by 2032 (almost $200,000 per year), with larger expenditures exceeding $5 million from 2033 to 2041 (around $650,000 per year). All of this is highlighted in the YMCA’s Capital Campaign Impact Report.
“As we look to the future, the YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce is reaching out to the community for continued support to ensure the long-term sustainability of our facility and programs,” said Sarah Cowley, Chief Executive Officer of the YMCA. “Donations to our charity—whether monthly, one-time gifts, securities, or legacy contributions—will play a crucial role in helping us meet the capital requirements necessary to maintain and grow our services.”
Those interested in making a donation or learning more about supporting the YMCA’s future are encouraged to visit their website or contact April McMillan, Manager of Fund Development, at fundraising@osgb.ymca.ca or 519-376-0484.
For Media Inquiries:
Sarah Cowley, Chief Executive Officer
YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce
P: 519-376-0484 x 9-204 | E: sarah.cowley@osgb.ymca.ca
