Five Points Washington launches $3M campaign for community center upgrades

Five Points Washington has launched a $3 million capital campaign to upgrade key areas of its community center as it prepares for its next 20 years. The "Reimagine the Future of Our Community" campaign will primarily focus on improving the aquatics center and the Caterpillar Performing Arts Center, along with smaller upgrades to banquet and community spaces. The organization has already raised over $1.8 million toward the campaign.

Executive Director Vikki Poorman emphasized the importance of these upgrades, particularly for the aquatics center, which is heavily used by local student-athletes, children taking swim lessons, and those utilizing the therapy pool. "Our pool is used very extensively," Poorman said. "It’s imperative that we keep that pool operational and available to the public." Planned improvements include mechanical upgrades, new plaster for the pool, and upgrades to the theater’s sound and lighting systems.

The campaign’s significance was highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic when the facility was forced to close. Poorman recalled seeing community members in the parking lot, distressed by the closure, underscoring the pool’s vital role in the community. "This is not ultimately about the building. This is about the people," Poorman stated, emphasizing the campaign’s goal to continue serving the community’s needs.

Some work is already underway, with a replacement unit for the aquatics center ordered and expected to be completed by November. Additionally, Five Points is planning a 24-hour day of giving on November 10, where donations will be tripled, providing a significant boost to the capital campaign.