In a sign of substantial support for the recreation center currently under development by the Culpeper Wellness Foundation, the PATH Foundation has committed $500,000 in project funding. In recognition of this gift, the center will be known as PATH Recreation Center.
“We are extremely grateful for the PATH Foundation’s support,” said Shari Landry, Culpeper Wellness Foundation president. “This generous gift moves us closer to realization of our vision of a community facility where families can come together to enjoy sports, exercise and all kinds of recreation.” The center will include two full size multipurpose courts, a fitness facility and two activity rooms, each with A/V equipment. The courts will accommodate instructional, recreational and league basketball, pickleball and volleyball and include two batting cages. Additionally, the new center will offer a diverse array of programs and activities that including tumbling, arts classes, after school programs, educational programs, and more. The recreation center is expected to open in early 2022.
Christy Connolly, president and CEO of the PATH Foundation, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with the Culpeper Wellness Foundation on supporting the rec center, as our missions align in making our communities healthier. In the past several years, we have had the chance to partner with them on smaller efforts, but the scope of the rec center offers a substantial benefit for many in Culpeper. Having grown up in Culpeper, I know my family would have loved a rec center like this, and I’m sure it’s going to be a tremendous benefit for the community for many years to come.
The PATH Foundation serves communities in Culpeper, Fauquier and Rappahannock Counties. In Culpeper County, PATH has funded work at the Culpeper Free Clinic, Ann Wingfield housing, daycare and senior services through Culpeper Baptist Church, education on addiction and mental health through assemblies with Chris Herren, and several other organizations supporting the county. Since its inception, the PATH Foundation has invested more than $50 million in grants and programming, including PATH Community Link (personalized assistance with services), PATH Volunteer Hub (connecting nonprofits and volunteers), and Center for Nonprofit Excellence (office in Warrenton to help strengthen and connect nonprofits).
“The PATH Foundation board and staff value the work being done by the Culpeper Wellness Foundation and the collaborative relationship we have developed. The rec center is a huge endeavor that will reap many dividends. We admire the work they’re doing to create an amazing space for people of all ages to gather, get some exercise, and have some fun! We’re happy to be a small part of their hard work,” added Connolly.
The Culpeper Wellness Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, invests its time and resources in community initiatives that improve health and wellness in Culpeper, Madison, and Orange counties. The Foundation operates the Free Clinic of Culpeper, Culpeper Sport & Fitness and Powell Wellness Center, one of only two fitness centers in Virginia certified by the Medical Fitness Association as a medically integrated facility.