Dear Devenger Place pool members,
We hope you are enjoying your summer at the pool! Our Z shaped pool with diving board, and separate deep and shallow end areas are a wonderful asset not found in many neighborhoods. We have an active community and swim team, and adults and kids of all ages enjoy their summers at the pool. But most importantly, it is the people we call friends and neighbors that make this community special. It is easy to see why we think "DEVENGER pool is a great PLACE to be".
However, our pool is facing a crossroads. The clubhouse is showing its age and is in desperate need of replacement, and the parking lot and sidewalks are a safety hazard due to extensive root damage. When originally established over 30 years ago, the Family Center clubhouse was a place to meet, host events and celebrate together in the true spirit of community. However, over time, the building has encountered structural issues, and over the past four years, significant water damage and mold has left it unusable. In fact, the only parts of the clubhouse that are still functional are the lower level bathrooms which service the swimming pool. And these 30-year old facilities are crumbling, leaking, not handicap accessible and in dire need of replacement.
In July 2007, the Devenger Place Family Center put together a comprehensive proposal for rebuilding the clubhouse. However, due to a lack of funding, the improvements were put on hold. Nearly two years have passed and our facilities are in even more dire need of attention. We can no longer wait to take action. To that end, the Devenger Place Family Center has initiated an improvements fund. As a part of this fund, we are reaching out to our pool families to join with Devenger families to support this effort. Please consider how you can help us reach our goal of $150,000. With everyone's help, we can make this happen, and be able to enjoy the new facilities by next summer!
FAQ's:
Why do you need my donation? Isn't my pool membership money enough?
The revenue from pool memberships are not sufficient for anything beyond normal operations and maintenance. The membership dues have remained affordable so more families can join with only enough to cover the budget. There are not enough funds to finance this large a project.
What will happen if you don't get enough money?
The Family Center, including the pool, will face the possibility of closing. The clubhouse has already been closed due to safety concerns, and other facilities are facing their own safety concerns. The pool, although itself in great shape, cannot operate without a functioning bathhouse. We have no other way to fund these improvements. In addition to your donation, we are also assessing each Devenger Place household $300 and seeking business donations. With everyone's participation we can make this happen. All donations will be used for these improvements.
How do I donate?
Attached is a donation form. It can be mailed or dropped in the mailbox at the Family Center, or it can be brought to one of several Drop Ins the Family Center Board will be hosting this summer where board members will be available to answer questions. See Attached form for details.
What kind of clubhouse are we building?
A one story basic bathhouse with toilets and showers to service the pool, and storage closets for equipment and supplies with a multipurpose room for meetings and socials. The cabana design is the same that was previously approved and is posted at the pool.
I own a small business, how can I help?
We will make sure your business is well publicized for its sponsorship. Please contact president@devengerplace.org to learn more details of what we can offer your business.
Please do your part to make sure we meet success by returning your donation today! We will be posting updates on the Devenger Place website, and at the pool. Please check those places for up to date reporting towards our goal.
Let's keep Devenger pool a great Place to be!
The Devenger Place Family Board