Pacific Palisades, CA – On August 14, community leaders, elected officials, donors, and neighbors gathered at Simon Meadow to mark a historic milestone: the official launch of a $25 million capital campaign to rebuild and expand the Palisades-Malibu YMCA.
In the aftermath of the devastating wildfires that destroyed the original facility, the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles is advancing toward its ambitious vision to create two resilient, sustainable campuses—one on Via de la Paz and one at Simon Meadow. The combined spaces will serve as a renewed center for community, connection, and growth, and will be renamed the Lowe Family YMCA in recognition of the Lowe family’s generous support.
The event was highlighted by a major announcement from LA County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, who pledged $10 million toward the project.
“Community isn’t just about the homes we live in—it’s also about the places where we come together, where we build relationships, and where we watch our children grow,” said Supervisor Horvath. “The Palisades-Malibu YMCA has long been one of those beloved gathering spaces, and its loss after the fires remains deeply felt. Today’s launch is more than just a construction milestone—it’s a symbol of recovery, resilience, and hope.”
Victor Dominguez, President & CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles, expressed deep appreciation to both Supervisor Horvath and the Lowe family for spearheading the effort.
“As the Center for Community Well-Being with 28 centers across the L.A. region, we have always been a place where everyone belongs. Now we can ensure that the Palisades community members will once again be able to gather at their local Y, where everyone is invited to grow, give, and get involved.”
Jim Kirtley, Executive Director of the Palisades-Malibu YMCA, reflected on the opportunity ahead:
“This marks the beginning of a new chapter for the only community center in the Palisades. The Palisades-Malibu YMCA will not only be a return to what was, but an opportunity to create something even greater.”
The Lowe family, whose connection to the YMCA spans three generations, also shared their excitement.
“The Palisades-Malibu YMCA has been an important part of our family for three generations,” said Bob Lowe, LA Y Board Member and Palisades resident. “We are so pleased that the Lowe family can help ensure that the Y will be able to serve the Palisades families now and for generations in the future.”
A Vision for the Future
The Via de la Paz campus will restore the beloved community hub, while the Simon Meadow expansion will provide a permanent indoor-outdoor space rooted in nature, allowing for expanded programming and greater capacity to serve families. The Via de la Paz site is expected to receive partial support from FEMA’s Public Assistance program, while the Simon Meadow expansion will be entirely donor-funded.
As the campaign gains momentum, the Lowe Family YMCA promises to be more than a building—it will be a symbol of resilience, a center for community well-being, and a place where everyone belongs.
Join Us in Rebuilding the Lowe Family YMCA
The future of the Palisades-Malibu YMCA depends on the collective power of our community. Your gift—no matter the size—helps bring this vision to life and ensures that generations to come will have a place to connect, grow, and thrive.
Donate today and be part of rebuilding the Lowe Family YMCA.
