Let's Salute Woman Who Donated Big For YMCA Pool

Never before has a hole in the ground been so widely anticipated, and no one gets more credit for that happening than a young lady whose donation perhaps makes it possible.

When the Highlands County Family YMCA pool gets build, it will be called the Capt. Justin K. Ward Aquatic Center.

Many will not know that Justin K. Ward was an Army captain killed in a car accident but his memory will live each time someone takes a dip in the pool or learns how to swim.

We don't know exact figures but Jennifer Boardman, who is now remarried, is reported to have contributed more than half a million dollars.

"Justin's death was tragic and senseless," Boardman told the Highlands Today. "But if it means a kid can learn to swim or a high school swimmer can train to become an Olympian or we can all train for triathlons, then maybe some good can come from it."

We salute Boardman and thank her for helping Highlands County finally acquire a pool that will be open to the community yearlong.

With Boardman's donation, the YMCA needs another half a million. Construction on the pool has started, and fundraising for the remainder of the money is in full swing.

Those who drive by the YMCA will notice a sign that bricks are being sold for a $250 contribution each. Here is our chance to help make that pool possible. Buy a brick or two. Drop off a check.

Having its own pool has been a dream for the YMCA ever since it opened up. That was 20 years ago. Sometimes it takes time, perseverance and a heart larger than large for such dreams to make a splash into reality.

That is the story of the YMCA pool.