BROOMFIELD, Colo.–Premier Members Credit Union provided matching funds by donating $2,500 to help the Youth Model Railroading Train Shoppe create a larger space.
The YMR Train Shoppe in Westminster is completely volunteer run. The model train club is dedicated to children ages 8-18.
“For over 25 years, this organization has helped educate and support the next generation of rail enthusiasts by teaching techniques in modeling, electronics, and the artistry of model railroading, while providing members a common outlet for sharing their passion for trains,” the credit union said.
The YMR Train Shoppe was started as a fundraiser in 2016. It was in a small unit of about 120 sq.ft. that had been donated by the owner of the building. Any product inside the shop came from donations to the club, and it is completely run by volunteer members of the club. Open only on Fridays and Saturdays, all profits go toward the Denver Youth in Model Railroading.
At the beginning of 2023, the unit next door to the Train Shoppe, which is about 500 sq. ft. larger, was vacated. It needed cleaning and repainting, plus new display shelving, lights and other misc. items to make the new space workable, the credit union said.
The club started a GoFundMe account and promoted the need for funds on their Facebook page. Jeffrey Kash, AVP-community relations from Premier Members Credit Union stepped in to provide a match of $2,500 so they only needed to raise $2500.
“The new larger space will improve the Train Shoppe with more space for customers, better displays, space for small layouts and more displays for inventory, said Larry Price, manager and conductor.
“We support local community nonprofits like the youth model railroading train shoppe with funds to help them grow and flourish for years to come,” said Kash. “One of our company pillars is ‘Premier: Gives,’ where we provide the communities we serve with funds and employee volunteers.”