On Tuesday, April 23, 2024, the YMCA of Central Kentucky hosted its annual Celebration of Impact, recognizing the outstanding contributions of volunteers, employees, donors, and community partners who have made a significant difference in the organization's mission throughout 2023. The event, held at the Signature Club of Lansdowne in Lexington, highlighted the transformative power of community.
“At the Y, we are building community - cultivating a safe place where everyone feels valued, supported, and connected, with access to the tools they need to grow in spirit, mind, and body,” said Paula Anderson, president and CEO of the YMCA of Central Kentucky. “All of these things are possible, because of our community partners, our donors, and an amazing staff. The link between all three is an unwavering commitment to make our community a better place.”
We honored several distinguished individuals and groups for their outstanding contributions and achievements in 2023:
Community Impact Award
High Street YMCA 6 A.M. Jump Start Class
Red Triangle Award
Rob McGoodwin
Volunteers of the Year
- Monica Mundy, Black Achievers program
- Rayma Beal, C.M. Gatton Beaumont YMCA
- Ramsey Quarles, Frankfort YMCA
- Diane Cashen, High Street YMCA
- Bill Smith, North Lexington Family YMCA
- Shanna Harris, Whitaker Family YMCA
YMCA Black Achievers - 2023-2024 Graduating Seniors
- Imani Cloud, Frederick Douglass High School
- Ashanti Cummins, Frederick Douglass High School
- Kiyah Gibson-Jackson, STEAM Academy
- Iyari Gillis, Madison Central High School
- Mason Jackson, Tates Creek High School
- Joshua Jenefor, Madison Central High School
- Janise Madden, Frederick Douglass High School
- Chris Thomas, Tates Creek High School
YMCA Black Achievers - Achiever of the Year
Ashanti Cummins, Frederick Douglass High School
Rob Taylor Spirit Award (YMCA Part-Time Employees)
Eddy Andrade and Milton Meza
Impact Award (YMCA Full-Time Employees)
Theresa Orlando and David Elsen
You can view photos here and watch two impact videos from the evening here.
If you are interested in getting involved at the Y, visit ymcacky.org. You can also see the YMCA’s impact in action on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
