Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Y. Essential in fulfilling our promise to strengthen community, Y volunteers help us innovate to provide relevant responses to the communities’ ever changing needs. They strengthen our leadership by serving on our boards. They build our capacity to serve by leading our annual and capital campaigns. They transform lives by serving as leaders in Y facilities and out in the community.
Each year our YMCAs recognize a select few for their outstanding contributions of time and talent to improve the lives of our youth, adults, families.
Mt. Madonna YMCA is honored to recognize the following volunteers for their dedication and service to our community. We are a stronger YMCA thanks to their efforts!
Arpinder Kaur - 2022 Changemaker Award
Arpinder is a born leader devoted to intergenerational community. She convinced over ten young people to spend a large part of their summers during the pandemic with her bringing healthy, hot meals to seniors. She hosted trivia and game time while everyone waited for their meals, creating a fun-filled experience. She’s been a board member for three years, an integral part of the annual toy drive, and has created opportunities for even more youth volunteers in the South County area. One of her latest accomplishments was a senior service day. She recruited several volunteers who designed a senior event providing a series of entertaining activities including a painting class, dance lessons, and a nail polishing. The drive, compassion, and leadership that Arpinder exudes is a gift that everyone appreciates. She is truly a role model to people of all ages.
Toni Bowles - 2022 Distinguished Service Award
When Toni shows up, results happen. During the uncertain days of the pandemic, she talked with YMCA leaders regularly, discussing ways to add volunteers and business partners. With her can-do attitude, she helped everyone adjust to new situations and maintain a positive mindset. Not only is Toni personally thoughtful, but she has opened doors from her business networks as well. Every year, she hosts the “House of Toys” and invites her company to participate in it for three days. Since she’s been involved, more children have received special holiday gifts because of her commitment and generosity. Her office has become a generous space for YMCA staff and board, as well as a place for community mixers that introduce the Y to new faces and supporters. She weaves the Y into her cooking show, videos, and social media, creating a network of trust and awareness that builds from her true commitment and love of community.