Athletes, politicians, and other notables came together in a packed ballroom at the Sheraton Framingham this morning.

Among the hundreds in attendance were Hopkinton Select Board Member Muriel Kramer, Superintendant of schools Carol Cavanaugh, State Representatives James Arena DeRosa and Jack Lewis, Rick and Russ Hoyt, and marathoner and B.A.A. legend Dave McGillivray.

The MetroWest YMCA hosted their 7th Annual Marathon Community Breakfast, presented their annual Inspiration Awards, and recognized its supporters who are working to build healthy communities.

A key highlight was the announcement of a $2.5 million leadership contribution by MathWorks to support the development of a new regional YMCA that will serve Ashland, Hopkinton, Holliston, Sherborn, Framingham and beyond. This lead gift is the first step in a capital campaign expected to continue through 2024.

“The YMCA is an exceptional organization that strengthens families and empowers communities across the country,” said MathWorks Senior Vice President and CFO Jeanne O’Keefe. “Supporting our local community is a core company value, so we were excited to collaborate with this nonprofit partner to build an inviting place for thousands of children and families within the area.

The new Regional YMCA will be located on the Boston Marathon route in Ashland on 12.5 acres of donated land near the regional train station. The site will serve as a Center of Community, bringing people together and welcoming people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities. The bold vision for the YMCA includes a STEM Center, a Center for Early Childhood Education and Care, an Aquatics Center, a Center for Healthy Living, gymnasium, and much more.

The YMCA has been working closely for many years with residents and community leaders, such as MathWorks, to identify gaps in programs and services that could be alleviated by a new regional YMCA.

According to Rick MacPherson, President & CEO of the MetroWest YMCA. “This transformational gift is the perfect way to launch our campaign. We are grateful for the faith MathWorks has put in the Y and appreciate the partnership we have built together focused on strengthening our MetroWest community. We look forward to bringing to the region, a YMCA facility that the community will support, and that the Y can sustain for decades to come.”