Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath announced a $10 million commitment last week to help rebuild the Palisades-Malibu YMCA, which was destroyed in January wildfires.
The pledge, made during a groundbreaking ceremony, supports a $25 million capital campaign launched by the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles to restore and expand the community center.
"Community isn't just about the homes we live in—it's also about the places where we come together, where we build relationships, and where we watch our children grow," Horvath said. "The Palisades-Malibu YMCA has long been one of those beloved gathering spaces, and its loss after the fires remains deeply felt."
The supervisor called the project "more than just a construction milestone" and "a symbol of recovery, resilience, and hope."
Victor Dominguez, president and CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, expressed gratitude to Horvath and the Lowe Family for leading the fundraising effort.
"As the Center for Community Well-Being with 28 centers across the L.A. region, we have always been a place where everyone belongs," Dominguez said. "Now we can ensure that the Palisades community members will once again be able to gather at their local Y, where everyone is invited to grow, give, and get involved."
The rebuilt facility will span two campuses: a restored Via de la Paz site and an expanded Simon Meadow facility. The new design will feature indoor-outdoor spaces rooted in nature and community.
The Via de la Paz campus is expected to receive partial funding from FEMA's Public Assistance program, while the Simon Meadow expansion relies entirely on community donations.
The January wildfires caused extensive damage throughout Los Angeles County, destroying numerous community facilities and homes. The YMCA served as a vital gathering place for residents in the Palisades-Malibu area before its destruction.
The YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles operates facilities across the region, providing fitness, youth programs, and community services to local residents.
Edited by SMDP Staff