For Service They Stand

The Rye YMCA celebrated the past year’s achievements and recognized outstanding volunteer service to the Y and the community at its annual dinner May 9 at Apawamis Club. 

The Gold Spirit Award, the highest award for volunteer service, was awarded to Bill Springer, the outgoing Board President. A member of the Rye YMCA since 1985, Springer joined the board seven years ago as treasurer. “Through Bill’s guidance, down-to-earth attitude, knowledge of financial and strategic planning, and organizational skills, he has helped to improve the Rye YMCA to make it the best it can be,” said trustee Tom Murphy.

Board Member Lisa Walsh received the Rye YMCA Community Service Recognition Award for her support and involvement with several community organizations, including the Carver Center.

Aileen Lonergan received the Woof Haneman Scholarship Award, which is given each year to a high school senior in recognition of their hard work in school, community service and involvement at the Rye Y. Lonergan is a member of the National Honor Society at Rye High School. She has been an active volunteer of the Resurrection Youth Group, Carver Center and Habitat. Current president of the Rye YMCA Teen Leader’s Club, she has also been a Rye YMCA Camp counselor and Camp secretary for the past two years. “Aileen is mature beyond her years. She exemplifies what we look for in our teen leaders and summer staff, her peers look up to her, and I am thankful to have her as part of the YMCA team,” said Tom Swanciger, Senior Program Director.

Bill Springer acknowledged the service of departing board members Chris Manning, Paul Nagle, Brian Leonard, Robert Leviton, Conor O’Driscoll, Bill Springer and Mike Temple, and welcomed new board members Emily Cavanagh, Mark Doran, Bob Garry, Laura Kelleher, Gene Lynch and Charlie Ulmer.