Earlier this month, members of the board and donors to the Anderson Munger YMCA gathered for a reception “Unveiling Our Heroes” to thank their supporters and celebrate the work of serving the community. YMCA Executive Director Rae Jin welcomed donors, volunteer board members and YMCA program recipients to a festive reception at dusk on the rooftop basketball court.
Board Chair Chase Campen complimented the staff and his fellow volunteers for their resilience the face of last year’s challenging times.
“We became a source of food for the community giving away 11,000 produce items each week, we offered free wi-fi for students in our parking lot, over 9,000 hot showers for unhoused neighborhoods and toys for children last Christmas,” said Campen.
Teens who participated in several YMCA programs spoke about the transformative effort the Y’s outdoor adventures program had on their lives. Sisters Brenda and Ana Lopez learned to make friends, enjoy hiking and marvel at the incredible night sky that can only be seen outside the glow of LA city lights. Angel Morales said sleeping outside under the night sky was his favorite part of the Big Bear wilderness program.
Andrew Lee, a member of the Youth and Government Delegation spoke eloquently about how the opportunity to learn how legislation is drafted and introduced has inspired him to challenge the status quo. As a participant in Mayor Eric Garcetti’s Youth Council, he was was part of a large group of more than 3,000 young leaders learning about government. He’s now able to speak with confidence about his new passion for government.
Volunteer board member Patti Carroll spoke of her personal connection to serving the YMCA. Carroll is following the footsteps of her dad, Ed Carroll, a longtime supporter of the Y.
“I am so proud to be part of the board and raise funds to support these wonderful programs that serve our community,” said Carroll as she introduced her fellow board members.
The celebration ended with an unveiling of donor banners decorating the first floor of the Y.
