Club Program: YMCA Strengthening Community
Our first club program of the ’25 calendar year was “YMCA Strengthening Community” with speakers Brad Russell (CEO/Executive Director) and Vinny Beretta (Camp and Sports Director). Brad was introduced by club member Angela Durant.
Both Brad and Vinny spoke enthusiastically about the YMCA, its programs and classes, and structure. Brad shared the cause of the YMCA, “To strengthen communities by focusing on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.” Brad also shared an overview of the financial picture of the YMCA; after 2020 and COVID the YMCA is a $3.5 million dollar organization with revenues of approximately 12% in membership dues, 25% in program fees, and 63% in donations.
Brad’s career with the YMCA began in Rochester, NY in 1990, and he became Executive Director of the Rogue Valley Family YMCA in July of 2006. He has visited YMCAs in over 35 different countries. Vinny is married and the father of two young boys and is a perfect fit for his role as Sports Director.
Both Brad and Vinnie shared personal stories of their background and impactful experiences serving the YMCA, as well as sharing their individual “Six-word Life Story” with the club. Brad’s story is, “Bike, Hike, Paddle, Love my Wife”. Vinny’s “Six-word Life Story” is “Games, Laughter, Family, and Appreciate the Now.”
Both gentlemen are great speakers and ambassadors of the YMCA speaking excitedly about the organization and its role in our community.
To learn more about the YMCA and to explore volunteer opportunities on how you can be part of this incredible organization please click: https://rvymca.org/