Dozens of Marines rolled up their sleeves for an act of service, far from the battlefield. With shovels and paintbrushes in hand, they helped refurbish the Toby Wells YMCA in Kearny Mesa. The work was unveiled during a ceremony and dedication of the community garden on Nov. 18, 2015, just in time for the 10th anniversary of this popular community center.

The garden will provide a gathering place for friends and neighbors to congregate, said City Councilmember Chris Cate. It is wonderful that the Single Marine Program selected the Toby Wells YMCA as their location for their ceremonial project.

With weather conditions in mind, the community garden now features drought-resistant landscaping. The Marines also repainted the Toby Wells childrens playground, completed repair work on the floors inside and help build a new center for children.

The project also coincided with the 20th anniversary of the Single Marine Program, which teaches life skills and encourages volunteerism among young Marines. A $15,000 community services grant from the City of San Diego helped pay for the new materials and landscaping.

According to the YMCA of San Diego County, more than 1,500 military families benefit from services available at Toby Wells.

The Y is a place for families, said Councilmember Cate. When we invest in our families, we reinvigorate our communities.