Changemakers 2026 Gala
In 2026, we mark 150 Years for All.
The Changemakers Gala honors the volunteers, leaders, and partners who make opportunities, belonging, and access possible for all, today and into the future.
Together We Connect. Together We Thrive.
On September 24, nearly 850 community leaders, partners, and supporters gathered for a sold-out Changemakers Luncheon — a day to celebrate volunteerism, leadership, and the power of community. The spotlight shone on three extraordinary leaders whose work embodies justice, equity, and compassion.
Save the Date!
2026 Celebrating Community Changemakers 150th Anniversary Gala
Join us as we celebrate 150 years of community, connection, and impact at the YMCA of Greater Seattle’s 2026 Community Changemakers. This evening gala will be filled with inspiring stories, meaningful tributes, and shared celebration as we honor our past and shape our future.
Saturday, October 10, 2026
- Hyatt Regency Seattle
- Doors open at 5:00 pm
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Ways to Get Involved
Event Sponsorship
Sponsorship and in-kind event support opportunities are available for 2026. If you are interested in specific visibility with our programming or audience please contact us to discuss options and benefits.
Make a Donation Today
If you are not able to attend or simply want to make a life-changing contribution today to help youth and families throughout the region, your generous gift will be included in our totals on September 24.
Volunteer with the YMCA
In the spirit of our A.K. Guy Award, anyone interested in taking their volunteerism to a new level has come to the right place. Sign up as a Y volunteer and start making a difference tomorrow.
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About the Awards
Awards in three categories will be given in recognition of exceptional volunteerism and activism. Each award speaks to lasting impact, addressing urgent issues, and enriching our neighbors’ lives today and tomorrow. See Award Criteria >>
Volunteer Service Award
The A.K. Guy Award is presented to individuals, couples, families, or groups who exemplify the ideals of the late Albert K. Guy through their outstanding volunteer service and dedication to social responsibility and equity and justice for all.
Social Justice Award
The Judge Charles V. and Lazelle Johnson Excellence in Social Justice Award is presented to an individual, couples, families, or groups who exemplify the ideals of Seattle civil-rights pioneers Charles V. and Lazelle Johnson through their advancement of equity and social justice in one or more of the following areas: community development, children and youth, education, health, environment, legal, economic development, and/or government.
Hero Everyday Award
The Hero Everyday Award celebrates and applauds the work of a youth, young adult, and an adult who exemplify service, demonstrate the Y values, and make contributions to their community towards social and economic equality.
Award History
The Y has been listening and responding to our region’s most critical social needs for more than 147 years. In 1983, the Y established the A.K. Guy Award in memory of Albert K. Guy. The award honors those who strive to better serve their community through dedicated volunteer service. Learn More >>
About the Cause
When you support the Y, you're helping create communities we all want to live in. Investing in families and young people, particularly those who are farthest from opportunity, is key to advancing equity and justice for all, and building whole person health for all.
As a community-based organization, the Y has a long history of helping support young people in living their healthiest lives and reaching their full potential in spirit, mind, and body.
OPPORTUNITY PARTNERS:
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STAY ENGAGED WITH THE Y
Volunteer Today
Volunteering can be fun and fulfilling. Benefits include: improving mood, decreasing stress, exploring passions, and gaining new skills. Whatever your reasons for volunteering, it’s good for your mind and your body, and strengthens our communities.
More Ways to Give
There are many ways to make a difference through the Y. Whether you’d like to make a gift or pledge, donate stock, volunteer, or learn about planned giving and matching gifts, we welcome your investment and partnership.
Your Impact
Many hands help build and support community at the Y, from staff who counsel youth experiencing homelessness, and volunteers who help give out meals, to donors who empower the Y to reach more people in need. Learn more about your impact as a Y supporter.
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