Thanks to several generous new pledges, the YMCA’s capital campaign for the new Lester Family YMCA has now surpassed $7.25 million.
Recent contributions include a $100,000 pledge from Hooker Furnishings, as well as Smith and Gail Chaney, along with a $50,000 gift from Barry Nelson of AutosbyNelson. These commitments bring the campaign total to $7,261,584 in pledged donations.
“We have continued to work diligently to make the new YMCA a reality, and these generous gifts bring us one step closer,” said Brad Kinkema, YMCA CEO/Executive Director.
“Hooker Furnishings has a long-standing tradition of supporting Martinsville and Henry County. We are excited about the new Lester Family YMCA and the impact it will have on the community,” said Jeremy Hoff, CEO of Hooker Furnishings.
“The Nelson family is proud to join other community stakeholders in contributing to an enhanced quality of life in our area,” said Lee Nelson.
In addition to the capital campaign, the YMCA has received $12,000,000 from the Harvest Foundation, bringing the total committed to the project to just under $19.25 million.
Plans are also underway to sell the current YMCA facility and to pursue additional government and foundation grants in the coming months.
“Our goal is to continue building momentum through fundraising and grant opportunities so we can break ground in early 2027,” Kinkema added.




