Ella Redkey Pool seeks funding for outdoor pavilion
/Pavilion will serve as an outdoor classroom & gathering space for the community
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The following is a press release from the City of Klamath Falls.
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. - The Friends of Ella Redkey Pool and the City of Klamath Falls are seeking funding to make the construction of a new multi-use pavilion and the start of exciting new programs a reality.
They have been fundraising for years with the goal of building a one-of-a-kind outdoor classroom and gathering space at the Pool.
The pavilion will be initially constructed as an open-air structure but designed with the capability of being enclosed in the future for year-round use.
The pavilion will facilitate a variety of programs that focus on water safety, active recreation, and healthy living.
Classes and programs will include:
First Aid, CPR & AED
Lifeguarding
Afterschool activities
Fitness classes
Team-building workshops
Summer camps
The pavilion will also serve as a reservable space for family reunions, birthday parties, swim meets, and more.
Funding for the project has been generously provided by the City of Klamath Falls, Ford Family Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation, Friends of Ella Redkey Pool, Cow Creek Foundation, and Pacific Power Foundation.
However, due to increased lumber costs and Covid-19 challenges, the project has been delayed and we are seeking donation pledges to get us over the associated budget hurdle. The goal is to raise $5,000 by the end of April to support the project as currently envisioned.
“Programming possibilities in the pavilion are endless; yoga classes, family board game nights, scrap booking meetups, arthritis and stretching classes, and almost any program you can dream up,” Nancy Thomas, the President of the Friends of Ella Redkey Pool stated. “The pavilion would be used for a community center, not only for swim-enthusiasts but for everyone,” Thomas continued.
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Nancy Thomas and the Friends of Ella Redkey Pool Board showed true dedication to the project when they recently doubled the contributions from the Friends from $3,000 to $6,000.
Additionally, the Friends Board Members individually donated another $5,000 to the project, totaling $11,000 from the Friends of Ella Redkey Pool and the board members!
Ella Redkey board member, Mike Reeder said, "Our outdoor geothermal pool is a wonderful and unique recreational resource. It’s a place where everyone enjoys the friendly atmosphere as they exercise, learn to swim, or simply relax. These new programs and pavilion will only enhance this one-of-a-kind facility as it works to make Klamath Falls a better place to live.”
“The outdoor pavilion is the cornerstone of a grand vision for the Ella Redkey Pool. Our goal is to expand usage by creating additional recreational opportunities at the facility. The lower grassy area of the pool will feature the pavilion, a recreation plaza with tables, chairs, and umbrellas, and a concession area with a variety of snacks available and lawn games for rental.” Brielle George, Community Activities Supervisor for the City of Klamath Falls shared. “Our hope is that visitors come for the pool but stay much longer for the all-day entertainment,” George continued.
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Ella Redkey Pool is accepting donations and 100% of your donation will go directly to the outdoor pavilion project. Donations may be made with cash, checks, or credit cards at the Pool during hours of operation.
Anyone who donates $5 or more will receive a Friends of Ella Redkey sticker, with a $50 or more donation, you will receive an Ella Redkey Pool t-shirt.
The Ella Redkey Pool is hosting a visionary meeting on Saturday, March 13 from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM to discuss the pavilion project and upcoming plans for the community pool. Everyone is welcome to join.