YMCA Northumberland hosted the “Shine Your Light” Staff and Volunteer Appreciation Celebration on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at the Keeler Centre in Colborne.
The event recognized YMCA Northumberland’s staff and volunteers who contributed to the success and
growth experienced by the organization in 2024.
“At YMCA Northumberland, our success is rooted in the incredible dedication and passion of our
staff and volunteers,” said Eunice Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of YMCA Northumberland. “It is an
honour to work alongside such remarkable individuals whose energy, compassion, and tireless
efforts make a profound impact on our community.”
Guests enjoyed a buffet dinner as they listened to opening remarks by Eunice regarding the impacts
of their efforts as well as future growth expectations for the Y. A select group of individuals were
also honoured with special awards for their outstanding contributions.
The Michael Moore Memorial Award, presented by Board Director, Jennifer Lavoie, was given to
Madelyn Schultz, a volunteer and staff member who embodies the YMCA values in both actions
and words and has demonstrated remarkable growth in personal development and leadership.
The Michael Moore Scholarship Award, presented by Board Director, Jennifer Lavoie, was given to
Sarah Bower, a Children’s Services employee at the Beatrice Strong YMCA Child Care Facility. She is
currently enrolled in the Early Childhood Education program at Loyalist College.
The James Commerford Youth Award was presented by Board Director and Chair of the
Philanthropy Committee, Lynda Kay. This award was given to Quinn Griffiths for his outstanding
academic commitment and strong leadership skills within the YMCA and the community.
Long-time volunteer and Philanthropy Committee Member Dan Bulger presented the J Gordon
Dunlop Volunteer Award to Judy Brown, acknowledging her decade-long dedication to volunteering
for YMCA Northumberland on many occasions, including her crucial role as the Operation Red Nose
Headquarters Manager since 2014.
The Arriba Team was the second recipient of the J Gordon Dunlop Volunteer Award, presented by
Board Director and Philanthropy Committee Member Yvette McCartney for their amazing program
work since 2015 of infusing the Y with their irresistible dance-party classes. The team consists
of Maria Scholz, Liliana Quispe, Stella Ahn, Yana Prince and Karen Larochelle.
Board Director Bill Lee presented the Rolph Family Spirit of Giving Award to past chair Elizabeth
Vosburgh for her dedication to the values of the YMCA philanthropy program through her time,
talent and treasure.
Lynne Caffin, Manager, Administration and HR, recognized YMCA Staff with Years of Service Awards,
acknowledging the following individuals:
• Five Years of Service: Sarah Bowers, Angela Chislet, Autumn Clark, Andre Colagicomo, Tim Doris,
Kayla Forgues, Taylor McKinnon, Vicki Rowson, Deanne Taylor, Whitney Wigmore Williams,
Katelyn Wilson
• Ten Years of Service: Robin Mooney, Emily Savage, Beth Smith, Michelle Spagnolo, Alicia Wilson
• Twenty Years of Service: Mary Ross, Tim Strong
Samantha Kelly, Coordinator, of People and Community Engagement, acknowledged YMCA
Northumberland volunteers with Years of Service Awards as well:
• Five Years of Service: Myonne Allan, Adam Bureau, Wendy Bureau, Rick Johns, Doug Mann, Yvette
McCartney, Tammie Staples, Jennifer Weeks, Karen Krissa, George May, Michelle Verbeem and
Claudia Wright
• Ten Years of Service: Bill Lee
• Fifteen Years of Service: Stephanie Campbell
Sam also recognized the hard work of all Operation Red Nose 2024 volunteers and gave a special
shout-out to Judy Brown, Derek Blackadder and Darren Cecchetto, who have offered outstanding
support for the operation for several years.
Finally, Eunice made a special surprise presentation of a Canadian Commemorative King Charles III
Coronation Medal which recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions
to their communities. YMCA Canada was among the national partners invited to nominate
candidates and was allocated 57 medals for deserving recipients. On behalf of YMCA Canada and
YMCA Northumberland, Lynda Kay was proudly presented with the King Charles III Coronation Medal
for her remarkable history of community service and dedication.
YMCA Northumberland appreciates the hard work and dedication of all its staff and volunteers, who
contribute to the organization’s mission. YMCA Northumberland is dedicated to the growth of all
people in spirit, mind, and body, fostering a sense of responsibility to each other and the global
community.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
