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Rolando named YMCA 2012 Volunteer of Year
Warren Rolando was presented the 2012 Volunteer of the Year award as part of the first Strong Kids Gala at the Osage Prairie YMCA on Friday night.
Rolando and his fellow volunteers were publicly thanked by the YMCA staff for their efforts.
"We're very dependent on our volunteers here," said Executive Director Jeff Snyder.
Kerri Barnes, YMCA healthy living coordinator, said Rolando was the person who could pretty much fix any piece of equipment at the Y. Board member Mary Ireland called him "the go-to guy" for getting things done, whether it was repairs or to set up for classes.
"He's always happy, friendly and helpful."
Pookie DeCocq, the Y's other Healthy Living Coordinator, agreed.
"Whatever needs to be done, Warren can and will do it."
While Rolando was the night's award winner, the program also served to reinforce the Y's mission and the staff and management's goals for the community, as well as honor the history of the Y, both as an international organization and as the Nevada and Vernon County operation.
It also served as a fundraiser for the Strong Kids Campaign, with the aim of providing opportunities for youth development.
With a goal of $75,000, the campaign is just under $20,000 at this point.
Snyder began the evening recalling the beginnings of the Y here in Nevada 17 years ago, saluting the vision of that group of individuals who conceived and helped launch the program that has resulted in today's facility and programs.
Snyder thanked his employees; noting they were the key to the success of the Y and pointed out it is important to have "the right people."
Nationally, he said, the Y is in the midst of a rebranding effort, focusing on three areas -- youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.
Various staff members discussed the goals and mission of the Y, as well as the programs and benefits, during a video presentation.
Betsy Foreman, youth director for childcare, noted that children, who were engaged mentally and physically, were more successful in their academic studies, were healthier, and more positive about life.
"We want to create a well-developed child in a safe environment," she said.
"We're more than just swim and gym," Barnes said. "Our goal is for people to feel comfortable here."
Various board members and staff noted the Y's aim was to serve all ages.
"We want to serve and support each other," Snyder noted.
Community partnerships with the Crossroads Church, Scouts, and the Nevada Neptunes swim club, among others, are examples of the Y's community outreach and involvement.
Snyder then presented a number of statistical points.
* "We gave out $110,000 in scholarship assistance in our community alone last year.
* "Thirty percent of our membership is attending on scholarships.
* "The YMCA (as an entity) has been around for 169 years, providing a variety of services."
He pointed out the Y has ties to the origins of Father's Day, basketball and a number of other sports.
"And the Y is one of the leading providers of child care in the United States."
The evening concluded with Rolando's award, recognition of staff and board members, and thanks to the benefactors and sponsors who have made the facility, the programs and the scholarship assistance possible.
For those who wish to contribute to the Y's Strong Kids Campaign, there are pledge brochures available at the Y, 500 W. Highland, Nevada, or you can call 417-667-9622.