Volunteers of America reports construction progress on Lynnwood Neighborhood Center, notes $3M funding gap

Volunteers of America Western Washington gave Lynnwood City Council an update Monday on the Lynnwood Neighborhood Center, a two‑story, 40,000‑square‑foot facility funded in part with a $1 million ARPA investment from the city.

Brian Smith, president and CEO of Volunteers of America Western Washington, and Dr. Steve Woodard, vice president of community engagement, described construction progress, the program mix and the financing picture. Construction began in October 2024 and staff provided weekly aerial photos showing exterior work nearing completion on the early‑childhood education wing, senior and memory‑care programming areas and a large community hall that will be divisible for smaller events. The presenters said a ribbon cutting is expected in November.

Services and partners: VOA described the center as a “one‑stop” regional resource that will host licensed early‑childhood education, adult day programming for older adults, memory‑care supports, services for people with developmental disabilities, a commercial kitchen, a gym and flexible community space. VOA said Trinity Lutheran Church provided the site and is a lead local partner; other program partners listed included local nonprofits and regional health and social service providers. Presenters said the center is designed to be flexible and “mutable,” able to accommodate mobile medical/dental vans if an in‑building health partner is not immediately available.

Funding and timeline: Smith said the city’s $1 million ARPA investment was ‘‘seed’’ funding that helped attract other public and private support. VOA said the project’s total cost is about $26.5 million and the campaign remains roughly $3 million short; the organization said it continues fundraising and outreach to foundations, public funders and donors. Presenters listed multiple funders and legislative supporters who have provided grants or advocacy, and noted contributions from neighboring cities and county partners that reflect a regional approach.

Council response and next steps: Council members praised the progress and offered to serve as ambassadors for the community campaign and for hard‑hat tours. Staff and VOA said the center will open in phases if needed — for example, partners may begin early‑learning programs before all interior spaces are finished if licensing and staffing permit. VOA asked for help identifying short‑term space to host programs until the new building opens.

The presenters left contact information and asked council and residents to promote hard‑hat tours and engagement opportunities during the remaining months of construction.