Calgary, AB – Following a joint Request for Proposal (RFP) process launched by the Town of Cochrane and Rocky View County in 2024, YMCA Calgary was selected through a competitive process and evaluation as the preferred operator for the Spray Lakes Sawmills (SLS) Centre in Cochrane. YMCA Calgary responded to the RFP and continues to be enthusiastic about operating SLS Centre because this opportunity aligns so well with our mission to help create welcoming and inspiring spaces and communities. We are excited to join the SLS Centre community and be part of the team responding to the region’s rapid growth and evolving recreational needs.
“SLS Centre is a vibrant sports and recreation hub developed by community, for community,” says YMCA Calgary President & CEO Shannon Doram. “We are inspired by the history and the community builders of this centre, and we think that the YMCA’s extensive history and organizational capacity make a great match. We look forward to collaborating with all those who bring SLS Centre to life every day and working with you to meet the challenge of growth for Cochrane and Rocky View County.”
YMCA Calgary understands that the SLS Centre is extremely important to the local community. YMCAs across the world exist to serve the needs of their local communities. We will extend the same care and attention to the Cochrane and Rocky View County communities and look forward to supporting and enhancing local programs that are already in place at SLS Centre.
We understand that transparency is key to building strong relationships. Over the past week, we’ve engaged several user groups in productive conversations about our shared vision for the SLS Centre. We remain committed to living our core values of respect, honesty, responsibility, and caring in all that we do. Our website FAQs provide more information about the transition, including our commitment to collaborative leadership and to honouring all existing user agreements: Cochrane SLS | YMCA Calgary
About YMCA Calgary
YMCA Calgary is a charity dedicated to building healthy communities with a proven track record managing high-quality, sustainable, and accessible multi-use recreation facilities across the region including in the City of Calgary and in Kananaskis Country. For 123 years, YMCA Calgary has been committed to nurturing the potential of children, youth and families, promoting healthy living and fostering social responsibility within the community.