Catskills Recreation Center Celebrates 12 Years with Successful Spring Fundraiser

Catskills Recreation Center Celebrates 12 Years with Successful Spring Fundraiser

by Robert Brune

    The Catskills Recreation Center (CRC) in Arkville continues to serve as the central hub of fitness and wellness throughout southeastern Delaware County. Home to a state-of-the-art fitness center and indoor pool, the CRC offers programs and activities for residents of all ages and remains a vital community resource.

    On Saturday evening, community members gathered under tents on the CRC grounds to celebrate the organization’s 12th anniversary and support its future through the annual Spring Fundraiser. Guests enjoyed an outstanding menu prepared by Oda Wine Garden, whose culinary offerings lived up to the restaurant’s stellar reputation in Margaretville. The Blues Maneuver Band kept the energy high throughout the evening, with guests dancing, socializing, and reconnecting with neighbors.

    Executive Director Morgan Miller addressed attendees with optimism and gratitude, thanking members, donors, sponsors, volunteers, staff, instructors, and board members for their continued support of the CRC. Miller noted that the organization’s success is measured not only by its facilities, but by the impact it has on people’s lives every day.

     “Whether it’s a child learning to swim, someone taking their first fitness class, a family attending one of our events, or a member finding support and connection, the CRC exists because people believe these opportunities matter,” Miller said.

    The fundraiser is part of a larger campaign launched this spring with a goal of raising $30,000 to support future operations and facility improvements. Miller announced that thanks to community generosity, more than $20,000 had already been raised. By the end of the evening, fundraising totals exceeded $21,000.

     The funds will help sustain daily operations and support upgrades to equipment and facilities. Recent improvements include a new pool bench and kettlebell set, with plans for additional treadmills and a StairMaster in the near future.

     In a brief interview, Miller reflected on her new role as executive director. After serving as assistant director and then interim executive director following Simon’s departure in January, she officially assumed the position this April.

     “I think it’s going well,” Miller said. “We’ve got nothing but opportunity here and nothing but great people surrounding us. We’re working on expanding our hours and creating after-hours access for members, which we hope to have completed by the end of the summer. There are really endless possibilities, and I feel like we’re just getting started, even though 12 years have already passed.”

     One of the evening’s most memorable remarks came from CRC member Ed Kratt, who emphasized the importance of investing in community health.

     “If this place doesn’t exist, you’re going to need that money for your healthcare,” Kratt told attendees. “Let’s open the pocketbooks.” Judging by the results, many in attendance agreed. The CRC’s successful fundraiser demonstrated the community’s commitment to ensuring this critical institution remains strong for years to come.