The New Blum House!

06/11/2015

Frost Valley YMCA celebrated the completion of its new Blum House building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Saturday, June 6. The building is named after Eric Blum, a former volunteer, staff member, and avid supporter of Frost Valley who bequeathed, after passing away in June 2013, a significant donation specifically for the purpose of creating a new building for staff.

The Blum House was designed with sustainable building practices and has been funded by the charitable contributions of Blum’s friends and family. His vision was to provide a comfortable place for Frost Valley employees to relax, communicate with family back home, and enjoy games and conversation during their downtime. Thanks to donor contributions, along with Blum’s gift, the Blum House features a game room, a common room, a dining area, lockers, and Internet access so that staff members can stay in touch with loved ones via video chat and e-mail.

In March, a time capsule was placed within the building’s walls, containing photos and personal mementos donated by Blum’s family, articles written by Blum, a copy of a recent Frost Valley donor newsletter, Frost Valley’s 2013 Annual Report, a letter from CEO Huncosky, and a few other notions. The capsule is to be opened 25 years from now, in the year 2040.

About 60 people attended the ribbon-cutting, including Frost Valley employees, board members, donors, and the family and friends of Eric Blum. Blum’s legacy was honored through the memories and stories shared about his time at Frost Valley as a nurse, volunteer, leader, and friend. Speakers included his mother June, siblings Gayle and Steve, Frost Valley CEO Jerry Huncosky, Board President Jim Vaughan, and Director of Camping Services Dan Weir. A reception with tours of the new building was held after June Blum wielded oversized scissors to cut the ribbon. Frost Valley employees were eager to utilize the new space, and kicked off its debut with a barbecue that evening. Frost Valley wishes to express many thanks to all those who donated and helped build the new Blum House.

This article originally appeared in the Tri-Valley Townsman, June 2015

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Frost Valley YMCA

Frost Valley YMCA is a 5,500-acre, year-round camp - There's something for everyone here in the Valley. From group and family retreats to overnight camps to horse camps to teambuilding, we've got you covered. School groups love taking a three-night field trip to explore the natural world and learn about the environment and their classmates. Family weekends are the perfect getaway for the young and the young at heart. Teambuilding retreats afford corporate, collegiate, religious, and other groups the opportunity to challenge themselves and effectively work toward common goals. In the summertime we're where kids and teens gain independence, explore the world, and make lifelong friends through various camps such as traditional sleepaway camp, farm camp, horse camp, adventure trips, and day camp. Call (845)985-2291 or email info@frostvalley.org to learn more today!