A vibrant spirit of volunteerism has been at the core of YMCA of Silicon Valley for over 150 years. Volunteers are truly the heart and soul of our organization, essential to fulfilling our promise to strengthen community.
More than 5,700 volunteers give back to YMCA of Silicon Valley annually, and each year the Y proudly honors volunteers that go above and beyond to serve their communities.
This year, 25 exceptional Y volunteers received honors for their outstanding community contributions through activities such as mentoring teens, coaching youth sports, serving on boards, and participating in fundraising efforts. These opportunities help volunteers enhance their personal well-being and develop meaningful relationships, while making an impact in the community.
Each YMCA of Silicon Valley branch honored an outstanding adult and youth volunteer at the 2018 Volunteer Appreciation Event at Avaya Stadium, home of the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team on Saturday, June 9th. Adult honorees were presented with the Distinguished Service Award, while youth received the Youth Volunteer of the Year award, presented by YMCA of Silicon Valley President, Sandy Berlin Walker, and YMCA of Silicon Valley Board of Directors Chairman, David Kennedy.
After the ceremony, honorees and guests joined fellow members of the Y community in the stands to watch the San Jose Earthquakes soccer team play Los Angeles Football Club for the first time. An inclusive organization, the Y was proud to be the featured non-profit on Pride Night. Our Y community joined the vibrant LGBTQ community to encourage the San Jose Earthquakes and celebrate inclusion.