“It wasn’t something that we could do years ago, but thanks to some amazing support, we’re able to do this and get this finally done,” Ray said.
The project started to gain traction after Speedway agreed to pay $20,000 to replace the floor, he said. Then multiple other sponsors followed, including Spradlin Brothers Welding, Security National Bank, Lee’s Chicken and Monte Zinn.
Children across Clark County use the gym for programs like basketball, martial arts and dodge ball at no cost to local families.
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“This gym is always busy, always hopping,” he said.
The organization needed community support to replace the floor, Ray said, because it uses the money it receives to make sure it can continue to offer programs.
“With 83 cents of every dollar going right back into the community that’s donated,” he said, “that’s vital to us that we continue to stay true to the mission of the Salvation Army.”
For many children, the Salvation Army gym is the only place they can play sports. It’s a safe haven for Lauren Pack’s three grandchildren.
“A lot of parks and everything that have basketball courts, they’re not very safe,” she said. “So I feel safe knowing I can see who comes in and out and everything.”
Her grandchildren participate in multiple programs at the Salvation Army, including the Jams program, that teaches kids to play instruments, martial arts and tutoring.
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“It just shows you that the community still cares and they’re still trying to help the younger generation,” Pack said.
The children lost both parents in the last few years and now live with Pack. The organization has been a support system for the family, she said.
“It was security and stability, and it’s just hard to explain, but it drew me here,” she said.
Now she volunteers often with the Jams program and the food pantry.
“It just shows that Springfield is a good community and they do come together and they help the places that help others,” she said.
An open house will be held at the Salvation Army, 15 S. Plum St., on May 3 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. to celebrate the opening of the gym.
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