Clift family donates to YMCA
Things sure have changed since 1946, when Jack and Lillian Clift first moved to Madison. Back then, the city was barely a square mile; now it's 26-and-a-half. Back then, their telephone number was two digits; now it's seven, plus the area code, of course.
Back then, there were no recreational resources for children and families; now, the city has Dublin Park and other city offerings, and the Heart of the Valley YMCA is building a 70,000-plus square foot facility to meet the demands of an exploding population.
The $12 million, state-of-the-art facility will include a state-of-the-art fitness center, teen center, aquatic center, indoor track, and gymnasium. The YMCA will provide a safe, positive environment for children, a priority for the Clifts.
"We always supported the YMCA," said Mr. Clift. "I was thrilled to learn that the YMCA was coming to Madison."
So far, a capital campaign has raised nearly 60 percent of the funds needed to begin construction of the Craig and Steven Hogan Family Center YMCA. Danny Windham, CEO of Digium and chair of the Madison Capital Campaign, says the couple's generosity is a testament to the YMCA's value in this community.
"The Clift family name has been synonymous with Madison for many years," said Windham. "Their interest in improving our community and their support of the YMCA is greatly appreciated."
"We are truly blessed to have the support of the Clift family," said Scott Mounts, YMCA President and CEO. "They have been mainstays in the Madison community and have been supporters of education and recreation for children from day one. They continue to provide leadership to the community and their efforts have helped make Madison what it is today."
The Clifts raised four children in Madison, and Mr. Clift has been a Madison farmer for more than 60 years. The family's land once included cotton fields and pastures in various parts of the city, including what is now known as the Clift's Cove subdivision. Mr. Clift continues to work the family's remaining cotton fields with his son, Jack, Jr.
With so much time and energy invested in this community, the Clifts want to ensure that there are plenty of recreational opportunities for all youth in the community for years to come. While they commend the city for its existing recreational facilities, they understand there are currently more participants than available space.
"With the Y here, the city will have more facilities. I think it's a good thing," said Mrs. Clift, who is personally excited about the aquatics center. "I'm a swimmer, so I'm most interested in that swimming pool."
"We believe the Y will be a great addition for the Madison community," added Mr. Clift. "We look forward to it becoming a reality."
The Clifts' donation will provide a childcare center for parents who are using the facility. There are still plenty of opportunities to get involved in the Craig and Steven Hogan Family Center YMCA. Visit ymcahuntsville.org/Madison, or call Mounts at 428-9622, ext. 3002 for more information.
