It’s only half the size of the Hundred-Acre Wood but probably has more things for children to do, and state Rep. Warren Kampf was there in Berwyn last week to celebrate the ribbon-cutting for the Upper Main Line YMCA’s upgraded barn and raptor center. 

“The presence of the Y enriches the lives of the community members in so many ways,” Kampf said. “It provides opportunities for children and families to participate in quality programs and makes these programs available to those who otherwise may not be able to afford them. Not only are there fitness programs but also gardening, animal husbandry and so much more. It’s an ever growing place for anyone to connect.”

The new four-stall barn for goats, lambs, chickens and soon-to-come injured birds that are unable to be rehabilitated and returned to the wild replaces the old one-stall barn alongside the Y’s Environmental Education Complex, nature center, outdoor learning gardens and 20-acre Cassatt Preserve woodland, wetland, meadow, creek, pond and hiking trails. Financial support for the project was provided by a grant from the Wayne-based McLean Contributionship.

Programs give 2- and 3-year-olds their first exploration in nature, teach elementary school children to not only grow healthy foods but prepare them as well and instruct high school students to be stewards of the environment or participate in the School of Birding. The outdoor learning garden even offers plots to members who may not have garden space at home.

The ribbon-cutting and facility showcase were part of the Y’s annual Advocacy Day.