Celebrating Community and Excellence: The 147th Annual Meeting & Awards Celebration
On the bright morning of May 28, members of the West Suburban YMCA community gathered in the Church Street YMCA gymnasium for our 147th Annual Meeting & Awards Celebration, a joyful start to the day filled with celebration, gratitude, and inspiration.
A Warm Welcome and Vision for the Future
President & CEO Jack Fucci opened the morning with welcoming remarks, sharing appreciation and optimism for the Y’s community and future. He reflected on the Y’s role as a true nucleus of the community, a central place where people of all ages come together to grow stronger, build relationships, and find support.
He also shared excitement for the year ahead as the West Suburban YMCA prepares to celebrate its 150th anniversary. Highlighting the collective efforts of board members, staff, and volunteers, he emphasized that their dedication ensures the Y continues to thrive today and for the next 100 years.
Board Report
Board Chair Aaron Goldman and Treasurer Rob Arrieta followed with board report updates and reflections.
Aaron Goldman recognized and thanked our Board of Directors for their leadership and service. He reflected on what the Y means to him and shared how it has become a vital part of his daily life. Whether finding time for a workout, creating summer experiences for his children, or ensuring they learned to swim, he emphasized that his story is just one of many. So many others have their own unique experiences and stories that reflect how the Y supports individuals and families in meaningful, lasting ways.
Rob Arrieta provided reassurance that the West Suburban YMCA remains in strong financial position. Through thoughtful planning and stewardship, the Y has made key capital improvements over the past year and into the current one, strengthening our facilities and helping ensure the organization remains a cornerstone of the community for generations to come.
Honoring Outstanding Contributions
The celebration continued with the recognition of individuals and partners who bring our mission to life every day.
Celebrating Volunteers and Community Partners
- Ken Billings–Frank O’Halloran Award: Stephen Brecher and Karen Stevens. Both recipients shared warm, heartfelt remarks reflecting their gratitude and deep connection to the Y.
- Community Partner Award: Charles River Campus of UMass Amherst, represented by Managing Director, Jeff Cournoyer, and Director of Business Operations, Kris Luoto. They expressed appreciation for the strong partnership and shared excitement for what lies ahead.
- Teen Citizen Award: Aeon Cohen
- Youth Awards: Hugo Melhop and Audrey Williams
- Adult Volunteer Awards: Christopher Busch, Evan Olesh, and Nathan Persampieri. Nathan shared a sentiment that captured the spirit of the morning: the Y is truly his “second home.”
Celebrating Staff Excellence and Milestones
The staff awards recognize the exceptional individuals whose dedication and passion have propelled the YMCA's mission forward. Among the honorees were:
- Commitment to Excellence Award: Becca Lozinsky and Brady Rourke
- Living Our Cause Award: Dorothee Metz
- Special Project Achievement Award: Becca Lozinsky and Keri Wood
- Bob Groden YMCA Employees of the Year: Peter Centola and Deirdre Curley
These outstanding team members embody the very best of the YMCA mission.
Staff Milestone Anniversaries
We proudly recognized staff who have reached 5, 10, and 15 years of service, honoring their dedication and impact on our community.
- 15 YEARS Luis Velazque, Lauren Walsh
- 10 YEARS Kimberly Kelley Benzan, Marissa Best, Marie Minardi, Alexa Serafine, Colin Spensley
- 5 YEARS Sam Bachman, Sarah Briskin
Looking Ahead
As the morning came to a close, one message stood out clearly: the West Suburban YMCA is more than a place; it is a vibrant community built on connection, care, and purpose.
With our 150th anniversary on the horizon, we are inspired to continue strengthening the foundations laid over nearly a century and a half, ensuring that the Y remains a welcoming, trusted resource for all, now and into the future.
Congratulations to all of our award winners and thank you to everyone who made this celebration and our ongoing work so meaningful. There truly is No Place Like This Place.
View photos from our Annual Meeting and Awards Ceremony on Facebook.
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