Yavapai Community College projects of a similar nature have received large donations and partnerships; McCasland suggests similar commitments are needed before this facility can be birthed
“Hello Friends,
“Some thoughts to consider. Historically many new projects for Yavapai College have started from one person or organization taking the lead and committing financial and fundraising support.
“The Performance Hall and music and art classrooms were the vision of President Paul Walker. He garnered approval from the state Community College Board, support from the Foundation, community leaders, bond passage, and a $250,000 challenge grant donor to obtain the successful outcome.
“The vision for the Family Enrichment Center started with a $8,000 donation from a retiring secretary earmarked for a childcare center. The Foundation took on the project, found other partners including Del E Webb Foundation and local Lions Clubs, other donors and it became a reality.
“The tennis court renovations started with Chris Howard and the Prescott Area Tennis Association offering to raise half the cost of improving the tennis courts. The foundation took on the project, it was classified as maintenance and now we have a new expanded facility. Unfortunately, for our taxpayers the tennis association only raised about $125,000 of the pledged $500,000.
“The Marcusen sculpture garden started by donations and support from the YC Friends of Art and has grown with partnerships from other groups including the Yavapai Prescott Indian Tribe, Prescott Area Iris Society, and many private donations.
“Bob Oliphant and the Verde Valley affiliate of the YC Foundation had the vision for the Southwest Winery finding supporting partners and donors to successfully start the award winning educational program.
“I suggest that we help find the partners and donors to assist in funding a Hwy 260 location for a CTE/Educational Center. I have been told that the hottest new growth area for Yavapai County is along I-17. Consider an Educational Center with CTE, OLLI, Community Ed, computer labs with tutors, satellite classrooms to supplement distance learning, and child care. Could NACOG, Osher Foundation, HeadStart, VACTE, other government programs and private businesses, and donors get behind this concept?
“This location would open up educational opportunities for the entire eastern portion of Yavapai County from Village of Oak Creek and Rim Rock to Black Canyon City and Mayer with easy access via I-17.
Our newly expanded Prescott Valley Panther Path Center has been expanded to offer more services and opportunities for our students. It houses Allied Health, Radiology, counseling and enrollment services, REDC, satellite classrooms, tutors and more. Excellent examples of meeting the local educational needs.“The time to help is now. Dr. Rhine is exploring options for a Hwy 260 location; however, major money and big financial partners are needed to cover the anticipated multi-million dollar cost difference. Dream with me and help YC expand their educational outreach to more Yavapai county residents.
Deb”