2024 Volunteers of the Year

Meet our 2024 Volunteers of the Year

Community service is vital to a thriving society—it’s about selflessly giving our time to uplift others. The YMCA is able to impact thousands of lives each year because of the generosity and dedication of our incredible volunteers. Each year, we honor those who excel in this spirit with a Volunteer of the Year award. Our deepest appreciation goes to this year’s exemplary honorees:

< RETURN TO THE MAIN EVENT PAGE

	Mike Linnik - CENTRAL YMCA Mike has been a volunteer with the Y for over 25 years, focusing on youth handball. He creates a positive environment where kids learn the game, build confidence, and foster friendships. His fun approach has led to an impressive retention rate of over 80%. As a passionate mentor, Mike adapts his coaching to all skill levels, ensuring every child feels included. Though many may not pursue handball as adults, they will remember Coach Mike and the positive impact he’s had on their lives.
	Renee Rachfal-Schmid - EAST VALLEY FAMILY YMCA Renee positively impacts families through her volunteer work with the Y’s programs and sharing our mission with her network. Her support of the Community Campaign enabled financial assistance for programs like Livestrong®, which she champions. As a leader in our fundraising efforts, she provided valuable suggestions and helped educate the community about the YMCA’s offerings. Renee’s enthusiasm has inspired her peers to increase their participation.
	Russ Satake - EL CAMINO YMCA Russ has been an exemplary Board Member, actively participating in committees and fundraising efforts. He has raised nearly $200,000 for our Community Campaign and is among our major donors. His most significant impact came during COVID when he donated $75,000 to support full-day virtual learning for children of essential workers, partnering with the local school district to ensure access for those in need. Russ has been a valued advisor to the Senior Executive Director and Board, and the impact we have on the community.
	Sharifa Wilson - LEWIS & JOAN PLATT EAST PALO ALTO FAMILY YMCA Sharifa has dedicated her life to improving East Palo Alto. Since 2007, she has served on the Board of the Lewis & Joan Platt East Palo Family YMCA, championing its mission with unwavering commitment. Her leadership and resourcefulness ensure the branch thrives and makes a meaningful impact. A tireless advocate for youth, Sharifa’s influence as a nonprofit volunteer and elected official is immeasurable. Many in East Palo Alto have benefitted from her lifelong dedication to the community.
	Ed J. Sauceda - MT. MADONNA YMCA Ed has dedicated countless hours to the Board of Managers, Community Campaign, Senior Center, and House of Toys, demonstrating a strong passion for service. Notably, he has been pivotal in the Mt. Madonna YMCA House of Toys which serves 5,000 families in South County using his time and influence to raise donations. Ed also volunteers at our Senior Center, serving food and supporting its operations. His enthusiasm and ability to mobilize others have been crucial to the success of these initiatives.
	Sarah Galloway - NORTHWEST YMCA In her first year on the Board, Sarah has been actively involved in various projects, including bringing YMCA Project Cornerstone to Kids Club, organizing the One Coat Drive (donating over 500 jackets), delivering Thanksgiving meals, and volunteering at nearly every community event at Northwest YMCA. She led this year’s Community Campaign, engaging over 105 donors, and created signage to raise awareness about its community impact. Sarah is a dedicated volunteer and Board Member.
	Laurie Vertelney - PALO ALTO FAMILY YMCA Laurie has volunteered extensively at the Y, notably collaborating with the leadership team to develop membership personas and strategies for better serving members. Her contributions have focused on enhancing customer service and attracting new members, and she has shared valuable insights from her tech background in team dynamics and customer interactions. Laurie’s contributions have lifted up our Y in many ways. We are grateful for her commitment.
	Barbara Neumann - SEQUOIA YMCA Barbara has been instrumental in providing registration assistance for the aquatics program which has greatly increased participation and accessibility. Her proactive approach and attention to detail have enhanced water safety and inclusivity, engaging diverse community groups to advocate for these vital issues. Through her commitment to the Safety Around Water program, Barbara has made a meaningful impact on the community, improving the safety and well-being of many youths and families. Her dedication is truly commendable.
	Shiva Sawant - SOUTH VALLEY FAMILY YMCA Shiva has been deeply involved in fundraising, leading the Board/Majors Fundraising Division to secure over $1 million in major gifts in four years. As chair of the Financial Development Committee, he has developed strategies for donor retention, acquisition, and major gifts growth. Under his leadership, the South Valley Family YMCA’s annual charity golf tournament grossed $350,000. Shiva is passionate about demonstrating impact to donors and members and works to engage local businesses. Shiva has become an amazing spokesperson for the Y.
	Francis Smith - SOUTHWEST YMCA Francis plays a pivotal role as the lead dad in our Adventure Guides - Wilderness Expedition program. Under his guidance, participation has grown to 180 dads and kids. He leads a team of 7-9 other dads and organizes monthly Wilderness Leadership meetings from August to June for planning and coordination. Francis maintains regular communication with leaders and assists in event planning, taking charge of the agenda for monthly events. His dedication to the Navigator position is exceptional, reflecting a commitment that resembles a part-time job.
	Anne Loomis - YMCA CAMP CAMPBELL Anne is a passionate family camper and the Secretary of the Board at YMCA Camp Campbell. As leader of the Family Camp Taskforce, Anne focuses on enhancing the camping experience, increasing enrollment, and fostering collaboration among Board members and stakeholders. A dedicated volunteer, she is a key resource for fundraising and accountability, with a strong commitment to campers, staff, and the camp’s mission. Anne believes in the transformative power of camping and its impact on the community.
	Marcie Soderquist - YMCA PROJECT CORNERSTONE Marcie has been a dedicated volunteer with YMCA Project Cornerstone, taking on various roles such as ABC Reader, middle school activities supporter, and TIP (Take It Personally) workshop facilitator, impacting over 300 parents. Through her workshops, she teaches essential skills like active listening, empathy, and effective communication, helping parents build stronger relationships with their children. Her authenticity, deep care, and unwavering commitment to youth advocacy shine through in every interaction, making her an invaluable part of the YMCA Project Cornerstone community.