Thu and David Brule are seen after the YMCA of Marquette County was renamed in their honor for their donation of $1 million, which makes the YMCA now debt free. (Journal photo by Trinity Carey)

MARQUETTE – The YMCA of Marquette County is now debt free after a $1 million donation.

At the YMCA’s 25th Anniversary Stompin’ Celebration, the facility was renamed the David and Thu Brule YMCA of Marquette County in honor of the donors.

“Obviously this is a very exciting and extremely significant milestone and Thu and I are proud to be a part of the celebration of the Y’s future,” David Brule said. “However, what we have done is not a gift. We are making an investment and like any other investment we expect a return. Of course helping to secure the Y’s financial future is a part of that return, but seeing the Y thrive is where we get the bang for our buck.”

The Y’s debt currently sits at $1.1 million. With the donation, the YMCA will pay back the $700,000 currently owed to the USDA within the next 10 years. By paying off the debt within the 10-year time frame the USDA will wash away the remaining $400,000 debt. Residual money will be used for capital projects such as roof and furnace repairs, said Michele Butler, chief volunteer officer of the YMCA.

“Philanthropy is so important to our community and the difference that people can make when they think about it and how much joy they can bring,” Butler said. “I mean 5,000 members, it’s incredible to me that people can come forward and do that.”

For the complete story, check out the Monday edition of The Mining Journal.

Trinity Carey can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 206. Her email address is tcarey@miningjournal.net.