YMCA Northumberland staff, volunteers, and donors gathered on Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Keeler Centre in Colborne to celebrate the achievements of another year. The evening honoured the efforts of YMCA Northumberland’s staff, volunteers, and donors for their role in the organization’s success and growth during 2025.
“We have achieved so much this year in Northumberland and every success is rooted in your hard
work, dedication, generosity, and the trust our community places in us,” said Eunice Kirkpatrick,
President & CEO, YMCA Northumberland to a full room of staff, volunteers and donors. “I am excited
about the years ahead and confident we will continue to grow and thrive. Thank you for everything you
have done and continue to do. We are shining bright — because of you. ”
Guests enjoyed a Greek-inspired buffet dinner by Lisa’s Catering as they listened to opening remarks by
Eunice, who highlighted the organization’s ongoing success and expanding impact during this period
of growth. Board Chair, Mark Galonski, also addressed the audience.
“The impact of the YMCA extends far beyond our organization’s walls,” said Mark Galonski,
Board Chair. “It ripples through the lives of the individuals and communities we serve, fostering
positive change and enhancing the well-being of all. It is something we should all be proud of.”
A select group of individuals were also honoured with special awards for their outstanding
contributions.
The James Commerford Youth Award, which recognizes a young person who reflects the best of the
YMCA, was presented by Board Director and Philanthropy Committee Member, Yvette McCartney. This
year’s award was given to Conner Ross for his kindness, enthusiasm and dedication to the mission and
values of the YMCA.
Board Director, Bob Biffin, presented the J Gordon Dunlop Volunteer Award to a volunteer who has
made significant contributions to the Y. This year’s recipient was Brighton Y instructor, Nikki Parks. Her
consistency, positive attitude and leadership brighten the experiences of the participants she leads.
Board Director and Chair of the Philanthropy Committee, Lynda Kay, presented the Rolph Family Spirit
of Giving Award to Roger Chernuck and Peg McCarthy for their steadfast commitment to the Y over
many years, contributing time, talent and treasure to the betterment of Northumberland.
Lynne Caffin, Manager, Administration and HR, recognized YMCA Staff with Years of Service Awards.
She acknowledged the following individuals:
• 5 Years: Jessica Auger, Hailey Davis, Kathie Clark, Judy Cook, Lisa LeBlanc, Haydn Mather, Amber
Roddy, Kassidy Rogers, Samantha Wright
• 10 Years: Diana Krakenberg, Stacie Femia, Chantal Forbes, Rachel Woodruff, Jennifer Fernandes
• 15 Years: Danielle Roberts
• 20 Years: Kasie Taylor
As a charity, YMCA Northumberland provides vital community services that have a positive impact on
pressing social issues—from chronic disease to unemployment, social isolation, poverty, inequality
and more. The Strong Community Campaign helps countless children, teens, adults, and seniors in
the community. YMCA Canada is one of the longest standing and largest charities nationally, with a
presence in Canada since 1851 and now serving more than 2.1 million people annually across 1,700
program locations.
For more information, please contact:
Kathryn Harrison, Director, Marketing & Philanthropy,
YMCA Northumberland, 905.376.0293 / kathryn.harrison@nrt.ymca.ca
Leanne Clarke, General Manager of Health, Fitness and Aquatics, also acknowledged Paul Paget and
Michelle Spagnolo for earning a place in the 100 Percent Club – a recognition reserved for staff and
volunteers who achieve a perfect score across every secret shopper category. They are two of only
twelve individuals across all of Y Canada to receive a perfect score.
Samantha Kelly, Coordinator of People and Community Engagement, acknowledged those volunteers
who had reached milestones of service with the Y:
• 5 Years: Darren Cecchetto, Spencer Selhi, and Cobourg Police Services Auxiliary
• 10 Years: Jessica Fraser-Thomas, Derek Blackadder, Alec Dewdney, Wendy Gibson, Royce
McCracken, Lisa Munday and Paul VandeGraaf.
• 15 Years: Derrick Cunningham and Kat Ross
• 20 Years: Stephen Hoftyzer
• 25 Years: Yvonne Kay
• 30 Years: Mark Galonski
Sam also acknowledged the importance of volunteers and sponsors to the ongoing success of
Operation Red Nose Northumberland, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2025. She gave a
special shout-out to extremely dedicated volunteers, Judy Brown and Darren Cecchetto.
Finally, YMCA Northumberland would also like to acknowledge DJ Bumble, The Mill Restaurant &
Golf Course, Ganaraska Brewing Company, and Board Member Bob Biffin for their generosity and
support of this year’s event.
YMCA Northumberland appreciates the hard work and dedication of all its staff, volunteers and
donors 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. Together, we ignite the potential of everyone!
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
