DENSO's Land Donation Marks New Era for YMCA Early Learning Center in Athens

DENSO's Landmark Donation for YMCA

In a significant move to support early childhood education, DENSO Manufacturing Athens Tennessee, Inc. (DMAT) has donated nearly three acres of land to the Athens-McMinn Family YMCA. This generous gift will pave the way for the development of a new early learning center aimed at enhancing access to childcare services in McMinn County. With the land transfer recently completed, the YMCA is set to commence construction in early 2027, with completion projected by early 2028.

Addressing Community Needs

The initiative stems from a thorough community needs assessment conducted by the United Way of McMinn and Meigs Counties. This assessment revealed a pressing shortage of childcare facilities in the region, sparking local leaders to explore avenues for improving access to childcare and education for working families. The McMinn County Economic Development Authority (EDA) played a crucial role in this initiative by facilitating the partnership between DENSO and the YMCA, supporting efforts to turn this vital project into a reality.

Mark Moses, president of DMAT, expressed his pride in contributing to the community, stating, "For more than two decades, DENSO has been proud to call Athens home, and we're committed to investing in the long-term success of our community. It's what drove us to donate this land for a project that will benefit families across the region. Access to quality childcare and early learning opportunities helps communities thrive, and we're excited to see this resource take shape so many can benefit from it."

A Collaborative Effort

U.S. Representative Chuck Fleischmann also played an instrumental role in bringing this project to fruition by securing a federal grant of $2.5 million earmarked for the center's development. He remarked, "This project is a shining example of what we can accomplish when public and private partners come together to invest in our future. By expanding access to high-quality early childhood education and childcare, we're giving families in Athens and McMinn County the support they need to thrive. I'm proud to have helped secure $2.5 million in federal funding for this new center and to work alongside DENSO, the YMCA, and our local leaders to make this vision a reality. Together, we’re building a stronger foundation for our children, our workforce, and our entire community."

Bradi Sewell, CEO of the Athens-McMinn Family YMCA, expressed gratitude to DENSO, the McMinn County EDA, and Congressman Fleischmann for collaborating on this indispensable project. "This center will meet an important need in our community, expanding access to childcare for local families. It will only strengthen how we help kids in McMinn County learn, grow and thrive," she added.

Strengthening Community Bonds

The executive director of the McMinn County EDA, Lindsey Ferguson, emphasized the importance of partnerships, saying, "Strong communities depend on strong partnerships. We're proud to have helped bring DENSO and the YMCA together on a project that will support families, employers, and the future of McMinn County, further reinforcing that our region is a great place to live, work, and raise families."

DMAT is a significant player in the local economy, with over 1,200 employees working to manufacture advanced automotive components and systems. Since establishing operations in Athens in 1997, DENSO has demonstrated a consistent commitment to the community through various investments, volunteer initiatives, and partnerships aimed at improving the quality of life for local residents.

With global headquarters in Kariya, Japan, DENSO stands as a leading mobility supplier, contributing to a greener and safer world. The company invests heavily in development and innovation, underlining its commitment to shaping a better future for mobility worldwide. For those looking to understand the extent of DENSO’s impact, both locally and globally, visit their official website for more insights.