Congratulations 2026 Volunteers of the Year!We are honored and excited to share this year's incredible group of celebrated volunteers. These Y Champions consistently go above and beyond to strengthen their local communities across the five boroughs. Bedford-Stuyvesant Y Kina BowenKina is an enthusiastic, energetic leader who volunteers as Bed-Stuy's Piranha's President. She is very active in helping with communication and organizing events, meets, and fundraisers for the parents of 55 swimmers. Kina is the type of person who makes herself readily available and goes above and beyond the call to service. She is always looking to improve how the team functions and looking out for the wellbeing of others, and the Bed-Stuy YMCA is truly grateful for her service to our community. Hellen AyalahHellen has been a Bed-Stuy Piranha swimmer since she was 8 years old and served as the Team Captain for the past 3 years. She's a leader, mentor, fundraiser, and she just so happens to be the fastest girl on the team. In a full circle moment, Hellen recently became a certified lifeguard and has taken her superpowers in swim to serve at the Dodge Y. Broadway Y Andrew KassAndrew, a member since 1995, is at the Broadway YMCA every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday bright and early to welcome members to a group morning stretch. He took over volunteering to teach after Mr. Fitzpatrick passed a year ago. As someone who is personally aligned and passionate about the Y, Andrew empowers members to stretch and exercise to improve their mental and physical well being. So successful, his class continues to grow in numbers overtime. Aidan Wright Aidan has participated in Never Lose Hope, NYPD Youth Leadership Council and many events over the last years. Always quick to volunteer with whatever is needed, he truly embodies the values of the Y. Castle Hill Y Francisco FerrerFrancisco is an active and dedicated member of Castle Hill Y Board of Managers. He consistently demonstrates exemplary commitment, leadership, and initiative. He played a pivotal role in organizing and leading Castle Hill Y's successful fundraiser and is doing it all again this year. Beyond his formal responsibilities, Francisco brings a level of enthusiasm and positivity that elevates the entire board. Francisco embodies the spirit of volunteerism. He is always engaged, dependable, and willing to step forward wherever support is needed. His proactive approach and genuine passion for the YMCA’s mission make him an invaluable asset to our team. Sharai GuerreroSharai in involved in SAT Prep, Rowe Scholars and Teens Take the City (TTC). As a member of TTC, she developed an impressive proposal focused on garbage removal in the Bronx. She is also involved with Youth Climate Champion initiative. At school, she is a leader on the highly regarded EXPO Tech Team and a member of the Robotics Club. She consistently sets a strong example for her peers, showing her dedication, leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact both in and beyond the school community.Chinatown Y Terri-Ann SmithOver the past 8 years, Terri-Ann has served on the board of managers as an instrumental figure in strengthening our community impact. She has gone above and beyond by serving with the program and special events and fundraising committees, as well recently co-chairing the board. She has always been an enthusiastic leader and is dedicated to the advancement of the Y and its community. James BudenJames initially joined us as a participant in our language classes and has since become an incredible leader in our community. A founder of our Table Tennis Club that launched last May, the club has grown to serve around 300 participants, in large part due to James' tremendous dedication, time, and effort. He often arrives early to help set up and repair our ping pong tables, many of which were donated through the support of his fellow volunteers from PingPod. His commitment, leadership, and passion have made a lasting impact on our participants and the program’s success.Coney Island Y Dora TestamarkSince 2014, Dora has consistently demonstrated an outstanding commitment to service and community engagement. As an active participant in our Healthy Lifestyles weekly programs, she leads by example in promoting wellness and positive living.She is a cornerstone of our community efforts, regularly supporting our bi-weekly Y Community Market food distribution and contributing her time and energy to major events, such as Healthy Kids Day and Back-to-School initiatives. Dora’s reliability, compassion, and willingness to step forward wherever needed make her an invaluable asset to our organization. Her unwavering dedication and advocacy on behalf of the YMCA truly embody the spirit of volunteerism. Kadeem SimsA dedicated member since 2013, Kadeem has shown remarkable personal growth whose familiar, friendly presence positively impacts our community. He is a dependable volunteer during branch events, always willing to lend a hand when available. He's consistently going above and beyond by offering his help wherever needed. His commitment, resilience, and willingness to serve others make him a truly deserving candidate for recognition. Cross Island Y Pankti Prajapati Pankti has been a dedicated member of Leaders Club for the past three years and has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to service. Year after year, she has shown up for volunteer opportunities ready to support in any way she can. She has grown into someone who naturally offers her time and energy to help others. Her willingness to serve and support those around her has truly become second nature.Dodge Y Allen RobinsonAllen Robinson has exemplified what true leadership looks like through his extraordinary service as Board Chair of the Dodge YMCA – concluding his term this year at the end of 2026. With unwavering dedication, he has given his time, energy, and heart to advancing our mission, always leading with a spirit of optimism and purpose. His passion for strengthening our community has not only guided our work forward, but inspired those around him to do the same. We are deeply grateful for his commitment, his belief in our cause, and the lasting impact he has made on the Dodge Y and the community we serve. Aaron Cherry Aaron has consistently demonstrated an exceptional commitment to service, leadership, and community impact. He approaches every volunteer opportunity with genuine enthusiasm and a willingness to step in wherever he is needed. Whether he is supporting our tennis classes with younger participants or noticing gaps in event preparation and immediately offering his time and energy, Aaron leads with initiative and heart. What sets Aaron apart is not only his reliability, but his ability to inspire those around him. He actively encourages his peers to get involved in volunteer efforts and service-learning projects, creating a ripple effect that extends far beyond his individual contributions. His leadership is both natural and impactful, helping to build a stronger, more engaged youth community.Aaron embodies the true spirit of volunteerism selfless, proactive, and deeply committed to making a difference."Flatbush Y Steven SchechterSteven has been a dedicated board member for 11 years, consistently supporting and championing the important work we do every day. Steven is pleased to be able to give his time and resources to support the critical work of the Flatbush Y. Like so many others, he was a Y kid who attended a Y pre-school, “Red, Yellow, Blue and Glue,” and a Y camp. Steven believes the Y plays an outsized role in the community and is a trusted partner for so many, including parents of pre-schoolers and school-aged children, teens, those facing food insecurity, our golden-agers, and so many more. Every time Steven visits the branch, his volunteer efforts truly make a difference in the lives of his neighbors in the community. Liz Florent Liz is a bright student and charismatic leader within her Y community. She has been a part of the Y community by embracing and connecting through the vast programs it offers. Liz is an avid member of Teens Take the City, helping write bill that aim to have a positive affect on the community. She is also a member of Leaders Club, where she has volunteered her time teaching elementary school students in Park Slope the beauty of imaginative crafts that sparks colorful wonder for their young minds. With hopes and dreams of being a pediatric nurse, she hopes to continue giving back to her community. In great strides and a humble heart no matter where Liz chooses to go, she will achieve and persevere showcasing that her community and who she is, is a part of her being and her grounded roots.Flushing Y Thomas DeAngelis Thomas is an Assistant Director at the St. John’s University Writing Center and has spent the past half year volunteering with our New American Initiative program. He got started after stumbling into the New Americans Initiative office looking for a spoon for his post-swim yogurt, and now supports students learning English with grammar and professional communication skills. "They are doctors, factory workers, cab drivers, parents, nail artists, and entrepreneurs. For many newcomers to the US, confidence in English is key to their self-esteem. I have the passion and teaching skills to do this, so I am happy to help. I encourage everyone to seek out ways they can use their talents to serve others. It is a great way to show other people that they belong and it will remind you that what you have to offer matters. This is one way we can strengthen our communities." Chloe Wong Chloe has been a dedicated member of the Y community for over 10 years, growing from a summer camp participant into a committed member of the Rowe Scholars and Leaders Club. They are always willing to go the extra mile and inspire those around them through their kindness, leadership, and strong work ethic. Chloe has participated in numerous service-learning events, including clothing drives and supporting the food pantry. Known for their warm, approachable nature and positive attitude, Chloe creates a welcoming environment for everyone they work with—and is rarely seen without their trusty Chiikawa plush by their side, adding a bit of joy and personality wherever they go. Their commitment to helping others makes them a true role model and an outstanding example of what it means to make a difference.Greenpoint Y Alexandra Hankovsky As both a board member and Y parent, Alexandra brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to her role. She's closely connected to the needs and experiences of families in our community, allowing her to provide thoughtful, relevant insight that strengthens our programs and services. She is consistently engaged in board and committee work, offering meaningful feedback, asking important questions, and helping guide decisions with care and intention. Her passion for our mission is evident in her willingness to listen, collaborate, and advocate for continuous improvement. Through her leadership and lived experience, she helps ensure that our programs remain responsive, inclusive, and impactful for all. Her dedication, authenticity, and unwavering support make her truly deserving of this recognition. Ikya Crosby Ikya regularly steps in wherever she’s needed to help things run smoothly and brings so much positivity wherever she goes. Her laughter and kindness help create a welcoming and joyful environment for parents, kids, and staff alike. People look forward to seeing her because she makes every event feel more enjoyable and connected. Her daughter, Nina, is part of the program, and as a parent, she truly understands the impact the Y has on children and families. She shows her support not just in words, but through her actions, and her ongoing involvement makes a real difference in our program and community.Harlem Y David Crockett David is a strong advocate for the Harlem YMCA. As a Y parent, he's been volunteering for many years through our teen inititiatives and the Junior Knicks program. Zainab Baragi Zainab is an active participant in Harlem's teen programs and consistently demonstrates the core values of the Y. She maintains a strong academic record with a 3.7 GPA and exhibits leadership skills through her role as Student Body President.Jamaica Y Cassaundra Howell Cassaundra Howell is a dedicated volunteer and leader. Since joining the board of the Jamaica Y in April 2025, she has brought a wealth of knowledge and resources to the branch. She has participated in the branch’s Healthy Kids Day, Wellness Expo, as well as community festivals at our after-schools. Cassaundra is a strong supporter of our annual golf and pickleball tournament and has elevated the Pickleball component to another level recruiting over 20 participants! Cassaundra is an active part of the board development committee and most recently she has stepped up to lead the board as co-chair. Kevaughn Evans Kevaughn’s growth has been remarkable. He approaches our diverse club offerings with an open mind and a "try-everything" attitude, which led him to discovering his true passion for the arts. Once he found his niche, his commitment was unparalleled. During our recent Black History Month production, Kevaughn served not only as our host but also as a vital pillar of the cast—serving as an understudy for two lead roles, performing in two dance numbers, and actively helping fellow actors with their lines during rehearsals. Beyond his artistic talents, KeVaughn possesses a natural sense of civic duty. He is often the first student to take initiative in the cafeteria, assisting his peers in maintaining a clean environment without being asked. He is also a frequent visitor to my office, where he shares insightful ideas for community improvement and future theatrical productions. Kevaughn is a joyous presence whose willingness to learn and embrace new challenges makes him an asset to any community.La Central Y Daniela Acosta Daniela is a dedicated 17-year-old volunteer who has been actively giving back to her community for the past year. A high school senior, she spends much of her free time at the Y, driven by a genuine passion for making a positive impact in the neighborhood she calls home—just a few blocks away. Throughout 2025, Dani has supported a wide range of programs and events, consistently showing up with enthusiasm and a willingness to help wherever needed. She volunteered across all of our Open Houses, assisted with our Back-to-School event by distributing backpacks to families, and played an important role in both of our holiday celebrations. Daniela also participated in the “Make Your Voice Heard” community event, demonstrating her commitment to civic engagement and youth empowerment. In addition, Daniela has been a valued support in our Young Picasso art class, helping create a welcoming and creative environment for participants. Her creativity, patience, and encouragement—along with her love for art and photography—have made a meaningful impact on the youth she works with.Looking ahead, Daniela plans to attend college in Buffalo, where she hopes to pursue a career in architecture. Inspired by spaces like La Central, she dreams of designing beautiful, community-centered buildings that bring people together and strengthen neighborhoods.Long Island City Y Matthew Lawrence Matthew serves as LIC's Board Chair and has been an anchor as we've been rebuilding since the pandemic. He's very active with his fundraising and recruiting, making him a truly valuable member of the community. Arturo OlguinArturo is an active Leaders Club participant at Energy Tech High School. He volunteers at various teen events that the LIC Y offers, volunteering his time at IS 126 SONYC Program to support the afterschool staff.McBurney Y Patricia Ginestiere Patricia is a Y parent with kids who attended camp with us last summer. Since then, she has been very involved with this year's camp season--volunteering at all our open houses to set up and break down and is always promoting our programs. She is currently part of the PTA at P.S. 340, where she has informed many other families about our programs and encouraged them to attend our events! Elisa Capellino Bozzo Elisa has been part of the McBurney swim team since 2022. Since then, she’s become a leader amongst the team and is always supportive and encouraging of her teammates and team building. Olivier DupouxBeing nominated for this award means a lot to me because it shows that the effort I put in actually mattered. When I started volunteering, I wasn’t thinking about recognition I just wanted to help out and be someone the kids could rely on. Over time, I realized the biggest impact comes from being consistent and showing up with a good attitude. Whether I was helping with schoolwork or just being someone they could talk to, I tried to be patient and present. Even small moments can make a difference. My dedication comes from wanting to be genuinely useful and make a positive impact. Being nominated reflects that, and it motivates me to keep showing up and helping others however I can.North Brooklyn Y Seeta Bourne Seeta is an empathetic individual, who started out as a community market volunteer but has made herself available to volunteer for other events. She can be trusted to show up on time and has shown her passion for our mission. She has often brough in more volunteers, including family members whose goals align with ours, to serve those in need. Northeast Bronx Y Mary Luz Alvarez-FawzyMary is a committed Y member who is always willing to help. She comes in to help with every food distribution with a smile. She is also a committed community garden volunteer who always makes sure the space is taken care of. Hailey FullertonHailey generously contributed her time and energy to several key events, including Trunk or Treat, Healthy Kids Day and our Christmas celebration. Throughout each event, Hailey demonstrated dedication, a positive attitude, and a strong commitment to giving back to her community. Her contributions have made a meaningful impact, and she serves as an excellent role model, inspiring other teens to get involved in service.Prospect Park Y & Park Slope Armory Y Leslie McCleary Leslie has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to the YMCA through her active and consistent involvement as a board member. She is always eager to dedicate her time and energy to support a wide range of branch events and initiatives. Notably, she has attended every teen recruitment event and has been a strong presence at family-centered programs such as Halloween Family Night and the Winter Festival, always stepping in wherever help is needed.Beyond her volunteerism, Leslie brings tremendous value through her professional expertise as a psychotherapist. She also goes above and beyond by engaging her personal network—recruiting neighbors and family members to volunteer at events like Healthy Kids Day. Her hands-on approach is evident whenever she is in the building; she consistently jumps in to assist without hesitation whenever she sees a need. Tajhir Woodson Tajhir is an exceptional teen leader who is actively engaged in all core programs, including Leaders Club, Teens Take the City (TTC), and Rowe Scholars. He consistently shows up eager to participate, learn, and contribute, demonstrating a strong commitment to both his personal growth and the success of his peers.He attended the college tour, volunteered during the MLK Day of Service, and played an active role in planning and supporting community events such as the Halloween Party and Holiday Extravaganza. His willingness to step in and help wherever needed highlights his dedication and reliability.Tajhir is currently stepping into a leadership role within TTC, where he is taking initiative in developing project proposals and contributing thoughtful ideas. Beyond his individual involvement, he serves as a true ambassador for the program—encouraging his peers to participate and even recruiting his fellow JV basketball teammates to get involved. Ridgewood Y Dr. Matthew Ackert Dr. Ackert has been on Ridgewood’s board for a long time and is one of our biggest supporters. We're so grateful to have his wealth of knowledge and perspective at the Y.Rockaway Y Colden Grant Colden, a military veteran, came to the Y seeking a place to manage past injuries he sustained during his service and rebuild his mental health. What he found was a supportive community that helped him reconnect, heal, and thrive. Through his love of fitness, he has built meaningful relationships with staff and members, the Y has become his anchor—a place where he feels supported, and truly at home. Colden now gives back by encouraging others, embodying the power of community and belonging. Jasiah KnightShe has been a part of Beacon P.S./M.S. 43 afterschool since the 4th grade. Over the past three years, Jasiah has shown unwavering commitment to serving others, growing not only as a student but as a confident and compassionate leader. Through her continued involvement in the Teens Take the City program, she has consistently led by example—supporting her peers, taking initiative, and demonstrating responsibility and integrity. Her leadership extends beyond the YMCA into her school, where she is recognized as a stellar scholar with a 97 grade average, she is a member of her student council and the Beacon youth council.South Shore Y Patricia Giangrande Pat joined our board over a year ago and has hit the ground running helping us to fund raise and real immersing herself into the YMCA culture. She continues to stay engaged and active through events and working with local businesses to move the work of the Y forward. Terrell Clarke A participant at the Carter Center and is one of the kindest and most helpful teens. He plays basketball at the center most days but then helps with our younger participants, with basketball, in the game room, and is always helping to clean and ensure those around him are having a great time.Vanderbilt Y Ibrahim Chaudry His service to the initiatives here at Vanderbilt expands far beyond his board commitments. As a dedicated member (and later, Chair) of the Properties Committee, Ibrahim has supported all initiatives in making Vanderbilt the optimal branch. As a staunch advocate for the young people in our Rowe Scholar program, Ibrahim has dedicated time to spending time with the generations of tomorrow, providing post-secondary, career and life advice to our participants at any given opportunity. Julia Butryn Julia has consistently been an active and dedicated participant in our program. She has taken part in the MLK Day of Service for the past two years, which she considers her favorite way to give back to her community. Julia has been a valued member of our Y family for many years, and it has been a true pleasure to witness her growth and development over time. Her continued commitment, enthusiasm, and leadership make her a standout participant.West Side Y Tiffany Lawson Tiffany is the West Side YMCA’s Board of Managers Vice Chair. She has been on the Board of Managers supporting the West Side Y since 2023. She sits on the Board Development and Fund Development Committees at West Side. Her dedication last year helped make our Teen Panel Discussion, School Backpack Drive, and Pickle for a Purpose Fundraising Event all great successes. Tessa CooperTessa has been a dedicated participant in our teen programming since 2025. She has been involved in all three core programs—ROWE Scholars, Leaders Club, and Teen Center—and has also taken part in our L.O.V.E. Mentorship Program, SAT Prep, and attended the Teen Programs Mini Rally.Tessa consistently demonstrates all four YMCA core values both inside and outside of our programs. Additionally, she will be joining our staff this upcoming summer as part of our West Side Branch summer camp team, further showing her commitment to the YMCA community.Y Counseling Service Rita Pirrone Rita is a dedicated member of the Counseling Service's Board of Managers who gives of her time and talents. She is an advocate for the Y and a champion of the Counseling Service. Rita serves on the branch's finance committee and also assists with our Fund Development efforts. She not only dedicates herself to raising funds but also to spreading the word about the work of the Y's Counseling Service. Rita is a true champion of the Counseling Service.Y Association Office Kris MagelA dedicated champion of the Y helping to expand support for the Y’s youth initiatives through his leadership, advocacy, and industry relationships. As Co-Chair of the Golf & Gala Committee, Kris has played an instrumental role in growing the event’s reach and fundraising impact. Jolene Oei Jolene is a dedicated and impactful youth leader in the Teens Take the City (TTC) program and a proud member of the YMCA Leaders Club. She currently serves as a Youth Borough President and has been newly elected as the incoming 2026 Youth Mayor, where she leads with integrity, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to service.Jolene has consistently stepped up for her peers, including serving as Interim Public Advocate, where she provided thoughtful leadership and strong representation for youth voice. She has also represented the YMCA in Albany advocacy efforts, demonstrating her commitment to civic engagement and policy impact beyond her immediate community.Beyond her leadership roles, Jolene is someone you can truly count on. She actively supports and uplifts her peers, helping to build a strong sense of community and shared responsibility. She is also a dedicated volunteer, contributing her time to family events and service initiatives such as Meals on Wheels at her YMCA.Jolene embodies the very best of youth leadership—pairing hands-on community service with meaningful civic engagement. She leads with both heart and action, making a lasting impact on her peers, her community, and the future of youth leadership.