MARTINSVILLE, Va. (rbs news now) — George W. Lester, II, a Martinsville business leader, has committed $2.5 million toward the construction of a new YMCA near Uptown Martinsville.

Lester, 85, is the chairman of The Lester Group, a diversified company with operations in building materials, real estate, and manufacturing across several states.

He retired as CEO in 2018.

“The Lester family has been a contributing member of the Martinsville-Henry County community, and it’s my privilege to make this gift honoring the legacy of our family’s community service,” said Lester.

In recognition of his contribution, the new facility will be named The Lester Family YMCA.

“The YMCA leadership is grateful to Mr. Lester for his commitment to the proposed YMCA,” said Brad Kinkema, CEO of the Martinsville-Henry County Family YMCA. “We’re hopeful Mr. Lester’s commitment will encourage additional donations during the leadership phase of the fundraising campaign for the Y.”

The total cost of the new YMCA is projected at $28 million, with $12 million already pledged by The Harvest Foundation.

The new facility, to be built on a 7-acre site near Memorial Boulevard and Fayette Street, will feature a fitness center, three gymnasiums, an indoor aquatic center, and an indoor elevated walking track.

Group exercise spaces, an early learning center, community rooms and outdoor amenities also will be included.

For more information about the project, contact Kinkema at 276-632-6427 or brad@martinsvilleymca.com.

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