Volunteers are the lifeblood of every non-profit and non-profits are the thrum that create impact in thriving communities. As residents, we are so fortunate to host as many non-profits as we do on the peninsula and, most importantly, to partner with stalwart volunteers who serve at one, or many, of our local organizations.

The Boothbay Region Y is so grateful to our volunteers who provide time (including attending monthly meetings that begin at 7:00 am), talent (governance, finance, building and design, friendraising and fundraising), and treasure (100% participate in the Annual Fund every year). Their leadership and service are critical to the Y's mission to be a community resource. The Y has a small staff and board member's guidance, support, and strategic wisdom extends and expands our skill sets and provides incredibly supportive partnership and leadership. 

On Aug. 10, the Y honored those who served as leadership volunteers at a reception at the main facility. Current Board President Bruce Harris spoke about each person's roles and strengths and recognized Keith Canning, Lisa Clarke, Mike Fritz and Lorna Weber. While Gryffin Kristan was preparing for college and unable to attend, we remain grateful for his role as a youth representative. Bruce and the Y's CEO Andy Hamblett also recognized Charlie Britton who rolled off as Board President but still serves on the Board and continues to lead the A Greater Impact capital campaign (which is nearing its goal with $2.8 million to go). Andy honored Paul and Louise Cowan who led the successful 2022 Annual Fund drive and who continue to volunteer for the Y, including continuing their many years as stewards of the Y's annual Rowgatta, which raises funds to support the Y's free swim program for second graders. 

Harris mentioned that the reception's location in the new community room was one of the results of the Board's hard work and that the space that we were in served as one of the classrooms for the displaced third grade this past year. The room continues to function as a space that is available for the community's use as well as for classes and programs. "This room, plus other essential improvements to the facility and those planned for the Harbor Montessori School and McEvoy Lodge, are thanks to all of you and your guidance and leadership, especially during COVID."  Harris continued, "Your work and your dedication enabled the Y to stay open during COVID and provided a vaccine clinic and offered programs and essential childcare during an unprecedented time for our community."

While munching on savory and sweet treats provided by Harborside 1901 and sipping on mocktails named "Gratitude Punch" and "Appreciation Ade" the group met with several of the Y's international summer camp counseling staff.  These enthusiastic counselors hailed from Mexico, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Brazil, and Costa Rica.  They offered some of their highlights of the summer so far and one shared that she “loves all of the rain because it has made everything so green."  Summer camp director Erin Gray introduced the summer camp’s emotional support director, Mary Evanofski, a health advocate and consultant, who has been a warm and calming presence for campers and counselors alike. 

Harris also mentioned the new incoming trustees, many of whom were in attendance including Tricia Campbell, Breanna Davis, Colby Allen (this year's youth representative in addition to Hannah Hills), Tory Paxson, Andy Hollon, and Dan Hallinan. Harris concluded, "In order for the Y to continue to thrive as a transformative catalyst for good in our community, we rely on your continued efforts as board members to help us deliver our mission to serve the changing needs in the region.  Thank you, so much, for your service."