Real Estate Firm Makes $1M Gift to YMCA

The Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay opened in December 2015.

The philanthropic arm of Indianapolis-based real estate firm Buckingham Companies has made a $1 million gift to the newly-renamed Irsay Family YMCA at CityWay in downtown Indianapolis. The Buckingham Foundation says the gift is the largest in its 10-year history.

Buckingham says part of the gift will underwrite the new LIVESTRONG at the YMCA Cancer Survivorship program at the facility. The program provides physical and social support free of charge for people with cancer.

"We’re so appreciative of Buckingham’s innovative leadership and sustainable development of our community as well as their monetary support," said Eric Ellsworth, president of the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis. "Partners like Buckingham are allowing us to bring life-changing buildings and programs to people who live and work in and around our community."

The $24 million YMCA, which opened in December 2015, was renamed after a major donation from Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay. Buckingham Companies developed and owns CityWay, which also includes The Alexander Hotel as well as apartments, restaurants and offices.