From left: Bruce Klingman (2022 Storey awardee),YMCA Dallas CEO Curt Hazelbaker, Brett Packer of Rockwall, and former board chair Felix Lozano III
More than two dozen North Texans recognized for time and service
DALLAS, TX (April 19, 2024) The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas hosted its 2024 Annual Celebration on Thursday to recognize volunteers who have dedicated their time and service to the Y’s mission and vision. Each year, thousands of volunteers assist the Y in a variety of programs, but only a select few are nominated and awarded based on their individual contribution and impact.
“Volunteers are essential in helping the Y run programs and services thoughtfully and successfully. They support our youth sports, food distribution, Turkey Trot, Catalyst Initiative, and contribute to thought leadership and strategic initiatives behind-the-scenes,” said Curt Hazelbaker, President & CEO, YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas. “In the last year, we leaned on our volunteers as the organization underwent several changes, including renovations at our Lake Highlands Family YMCA and Semones Family YMCA and current construction at our Park South Family YMCA. This celebration is to remind them that they’re an integral part of our community.
This year, 27 volunteers are being formally recognized with top awards for their contributions to the Y and the North Texas community.
W. Stephen Love – Theodore P. Beasley Distinguished Leadership Award
The Theodore P. Beasley Distinguished Leadership Award is given annually in recognition of outstanding service and volunteer leadership to the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas.
W. Stephen Love’s journey intertwines deeply with the YMCA’s ethos and its profound impact on communities. In 2001, Love took on a volunteer role on the local advisory board in Collin County, marking the beginning of his active involvement with the YMCA’s management team. His tenure saw pivotal moments, including the consolidation of two YMCA locations in Plano, a decision made in the interest of enhancing community impact.
Throughout his nine years as a YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas Association board member, Love has remained committed to advancing health and wellness nitiatives in North Texas. His holistic belief in the YMCA’s transformative power continues to positively impact individuals and communities.
Rockwall’s Brett Packer – Charles P. Storey Award
The Charles P. Storey Strong Communities Award is presented to a YMCA volunteer who has demonstrated commitment and has been instrumental in creation and perpetuation of a local YMCA.
Brett Packer’s connection with the YMCA traces back to 1970 when he first stepped onto the Southeast YMCA football field, igniting a passion that would shape his future. Upon settling in Rockwall in 1979, the YMCA became an integral part of Brett’s family life. Packer coached his daughter’s t-ball team and participated in Adventure Guides, further deepening his commitment. He joined the Board of Management in 2000 and was honored with prestigious awards, reflecting his dedication and service. In 2013, Packer marked a significant milestone joining the Rockwall YMCA Capital Improvement Committee. His values and service have made a lasting impression among North Texans.
Watch Brett’s Story
Sam Winstead Volunteer of the Year Awards
● Brandon Smith – Camp Grady Spruce
● Jason Cryer – Coppell Family YMCA
● Fred Whitfield – Cross Timbers Family YMCA
● Vontoba Terry – Frisco Family YMCA
● Melissa Steger – Grand Prairie Family YMCA
● Emily Spivey – J.E.R Chilton YMCA at Rockwall
● Maison Vasek – Lake Highlands Family YMCA
● Sandy DeLaunay – McKinney Family YMCA
● Ana Tumminello – Moody Family YMCA
● Bobbie Giles – Moorland Family YMCA at Oak Cliff
● Dr. Jasmine Collier – Park South Family YMCA
● Arthur Young – Plano Family YMCA
● Marianne Kelsey – Richardson Family YMCA
● Richard Ray – Semones Family YMCA
● Sadat Rashid – T. Boone Pickens YMCA
● Tim White- Waxahachie Family YMCA
● Claire Hailey – White Rock YMCA
● Vicki Yanez- YMCA Serving the Irving Community
● Cheryl Curry – YMCA Serving the West Dallas Community
Youth Character Awards:
- Jackson Reitman – Grand Prairie Family YMCA
- Sadie Johnson – Frisco Family YMCA
- Giselle Moreno – T. Boone Pickens YMCA
- Preston Lee – T. Boone Pickens YMCA
- Jacob Shilson – Frisco Family YMCA
- Balakrishna Ravulapalli – Park South Family YMCA
About the YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
The Y is one of the nation’s leading nonprofits strengthening communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas serves thousands of men, women and children each year, regardless of age, income or background. Anchored in 18 North Texas communities, the Dallas Y has the long-standing relationships and physical presence not just to promise, but to deliver lasting personal and social change. The Y ensures all people have equitable access to the essentials needed to become thriving members of the community. Daily, the Y bridges and fills individual and community needs as a catalyst for impactful change. The YMCA makes accessible the support and opportunities that empower people and communities to learn, grow and thrive, with three areas of focus: Youth Development, Healthy Living and Social Responsibility. To learn more or get involved in improving our local communities, have opportunities to make an impact and support your neighbors, please visit us at www.ymcadallas.org.
Rockwall volunteer receives highest honors at Metropolitan Dallas YMCA’s Annual Celebration added by Editor on
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