Awards | Annual Report 2024
Ian Holder
Each year, the YMCA of South Hampton Roads recognizes a volunteer who has made an outstanding and lasting impact on our community through their service to the Y, and inducts that volunteer into the Order of the Red Triangle—our highest honor. For 2024 we presented that award to Ian Holder, who has served as a YMCA volunteer for over a decade. We are honored and so grateful that Ian has given freely of his time and talents to help make our YMCA and our community strong.
VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARDS
In 2024, our volunteers raised funds to keep the Y open for all, helped out at blood drives, organized food pantries, gathered gifts and school supplies for local kids, coached sports, and more. Whether you’re a coach, board member, or caring member of the community, our honored recipients of the 2024 Volunteer Service Awards are celebrated tonight for being the hearts and souls of the Y. We hope that this recognition of leadership and selflessness will inspire others to become changemakers, realizing that one person can truly make a powerful difference.
Kim Cortez
Albemarle Family YMCA
For her heartfelt dedication to the Y’s Family Program, where she has spent the past year lovingly caring for children in Stay and Play every Tuesday, ensuring each child feels valued and supported.
Harold Williams Jr.
Blocker Norfolk Family YMCA
For his leadership as Blocker Chair, dedicating four years to uniting communities and advocating for the YMCA’s mission to break down barriers and provide support for all.
Sandy Ayres
Currituck Family YMCA
For her dedicated leadership as Board Chair, she championed staff appreciation and storytelling by implementing the “Way to Go” program and expanding the board with eight key volunteers, strengthening the Y’s impact in Currituck County.
Jacqueline Craft
Eastern Shore Family YMCA
For her generosity and passion for service, she is a dedicated board member and constant presence at Y events, tirelessly supporting youth, families, and the Y’s mission.
Annmarie Welch
Effingham Street Family YMCA
For her passion and dedication to literacy and community service, volunteering over 200 hours leading the Y’s reading program, managed a monthly food pantry serving 94 families, and strengthened board initiatives with her leadership and commitment.
Coach Rick Allen
First Tee — Hampton Roads
For his dedication and mentorship, devoting countless hours as a volunteer golf coach, inspiring young athletes and pioneering a new program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities at First Tee.
Tim Arbour
Great Bridge/Hickory Family YMCA
For his dedication and mentorship, coaching basketball and flag football since 2023, inspiring young athletes both on and off the field through his consistency, encouragement, and leadership.
Joseph Gosman
Greenbrier Family YMCA
For his high energy and dedication, he has been an outstanding volunteer coach for soccer and basketball, fostering a positive and enjoyable environment where children thrive and learn the fundamentals of the game.
Karen Smith
Greenbrier North YMCA
For her selflessness and dedication, she has earned the admiration of kids and parents alike by coaching volleyball and cheerleading, helping children build skills, confidence, and a love for teamwork.
Leslie Fort
Hilltop Family YMCA
For her outstanding leadership on the Hilltop Board, she has advanced our mission by enhancing facilities, revitalizing the Active Older Adults program, and fostering a strong sense of community and wellness for our members.
Jennie Weatherly
Indian River Family YMCA
For her tireless dedication and leadership, she has been instrumental in supporting cancer survivors through the Thrive group and raising vital funds, strengthening the YMCA's impact on the Indian River community.
Joseph Gansor
James L. Camp Jr. Family YMCA
For his 25 years of dedication and passion, serving as an active board member, advocate, and mentor, contributing to the YMCA through coaching, fundraising, and maintaining a welcoming environment with his attention to detail.
Rick Heyes
Mt. Trashmore Family YMCA
For his unwavering commitment and selfless dedication, going above and beyond as a Board Member, actively contributing to meetings, events, and even assisting with swim lessons to support the YMCA’s mission.
Linda Papas
Northampton County YMCA
For her unwavering dedication and passion, volunteering since the Northampton County YMCA’s inception, connecting people and strengthening the Y’s community presence while also serving with Habitat for Humanity.
Nathan Finnin
Outer Banks Family YMCA
For his passionate leadership as volunteer Board Chair, inspiring greater community connection, expanded access, and strengthened volunteer participation, playing a key role in the Y’s growth and service in the Outer Banks.
Matthew McPherson
Princess Anne Family YMCA
For his dedication and positive attitude, consistently supporting staff, maintaining the wellness floor, and embodying the spirit of inclusivity while helping members achieve their goals.
John Cross
Suffolk Family YMCA
For his unwavering commitment and leadership as Vice Chair, supporting the Annual Campaign, advocating for the Y, and actively contributing to events that strengthen the Suffolk Family YMCA and its community impact.
Peggy Castellanos
Taylor Bend Family YMCA
For her selfless dedication and kindness, teaching classes, offering translation support, crocheting over 50 items as gifts, and assisting with the food pantry and AOA events, all while sharing her warmth with the community.
Terri Campbell
YMCA at JT's Camp Grom
For her unwavering advocacy and dedication, bringing new events and supporters while serving as an active board member and volunteering for community events, all driven by her deep passion for the camp’s mission.
Tammy Hedspeth
YMCA Camp Silver Beach
For her 13 years of dedicated service, sharing her time and expertise as volunteer medical staff at YMCA Camp Silver Beach, providing compassionate care to the many campers each summer.
Kathy Nolen-Martin
YMCA Family Center on Granby
For her exceptional leadership as Board Chair, driving growth and success at the Y on Granby, fostering collaboration, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring others with her unwavering commitment and selfless volunteer efforts.
Keith Baremore
YMCA of Portsmouth
For his unwavering dedication and positive attitude, building relationships, supporting initiatives, and contributing across multiple departments, from coaching to event support, all while embodying the Y’s mission with respect and kindness.
Ryland Clark
YMCA of South Boston/Halifax County
For his tireless support and engagement as a Board Member, supporting the YMCA’s growth, consistently advocating for the Y, fostering key relationships, and encouraging success through his creative input and networking efforts.

Retiring Board Members
We're so thankful for and want to recognize Ian Checchio, Marilyn Morales, and Harold Williams, Jr. for their years of volunteer service to our community.