Hero Everyday Awards 2025 | YMCA Volunteers Making a Difference

Every day, volunteers help bring the Y’s mission to life—dedicating themselves to efforts that lead youth, families, and communities to thrive. None of the Y’s impact would be possible without their dedication and generosity. 

Which is why each year we are proud to celebrate our volunteers through the Hero Everyday Award—a recognition honoring volunteers across the Y who exemplify our values, share their time and talent generously, and create pathways for all people to reach their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body. 

This year’s awardees represent the very best of our community: people whose leadership, compassion, and commitment have left a lasting impact. These extraordinary volunteers are a reminder of what’s possible when people give their time and heart to a cause.

Anthony Silcox – Auburn Valley YMCA 

Anthony embodies the Y’s core values through his consistent, hands-on commitment to community well-being—whether volunteering at events, offering strategic insight as an Advisory Board member, or showing up to support youth and families. His leadership is rooted in humility, purpose, and a deep respect for others, creating space for emerging voices and fostering authentic connections. More than just a supporter, Anthony is a catalyst for positive change, inspiring those around him to lead, serve, and build a stronger community together.

Krishnan Menon – Bellevue Family YMCA 

Krishnan brings incredible energy and positivity to the Bellevue Y, actively supporting our Annual Fund Drive, participating in multiple classes each week, and serving as a dedicated Member Ambassador. He’s not only a consistent presence in our programs, but also a connector—bringing in volunteers, uplifting members, and helping grow participation across our fitness classes. Through his enthusiasm, honesty, and deep care for our community, Krishnan exemplifies the Y’s core values and inspires everyone around him.

Kallie Gilstad – Camping & Outdoor Leadership 

Kallie, a former camper at Camp Colman and Camp Orkila, now serves on the Camping & Outdoor Leadership Advisory Board and chairs the Development Committee. In her first year as a volunteer, she has led fundraising efforts, supported peer engagement, and has shown up consistently for programs and events across YGS. Kallie brings contagious energy and a deep passion for expanding access to life-changing outdoor experiences for youth.

Jay Satz – Camping & Outdoor Leadership 

Jay, a dedicated COL Advisory Board volunteer and Chair of the Program Quality and Risk Management Committee, brings decades of expertise and a commitment to youth development. He enhances the quality, safety, and long-term impact of our programs by leading with curiosity, connection, and responsibility. Tireless in his efforts, Jay ensures our programs not only meet today's standards but remain relevant and transformative for years to come.

Doris Turner – Coal Creek Family YMCA 

Doris has been a dedicated weekly volunteer for the Backpack Meal Program at the Coal Creek Y for years, giving her time out of a genuine passion for helping kids and ensuring food access for all. Known and loved by everyone, Doris brings kindness, humility, and consistency to everything she does—never seeking recognition, but always showing up. Her deep care for the community, along with her respectful and inclusive spirit, make her a shining example of the Y’s core values.

Donald Warrick – Dale Turner Family YMCA 

Donald exemplifies servant leadership through his passion, energy, and deep commitment to the Y’s mission—consistently inspiring others to get involved simply by leading with heart and purpose. Donald’s impact is especially felt among Active Older Adults, where he has championed initiatives like pickleball and inclusive programming to promote connection, wellness, and healthy aging. A dedicated board member, fundraiser, and advocate, Donald embodies the Y’s core values in every action, creating lasting change and fostering a stronger, more connected community for all.

Alana Morris – Downtown Seattle YMCA 

Alana leads with heart and purpose, dedicating her time, resources, and advocacy to support young adults in the Young Adults in Transition (YAIT) program at the Downtown YMCA. From securing a $1,500 food grant to personally covering staff needs, she consistently steps up to fill critical gaps, ensuring participants have access to essentials like food and stability. Through her unwavering commitment and embodiment of the Y’s core values, Alana creates lasting impact and inspires others to take meaningful action in service of youth facing housing and food insecurity.

Maria Jackson – Kent YMCA 

Maria exemplifies the spirit of service by giving not just resources, but also her time, care, and mentorship to uplift others. Through her foundation’s global work—supporting public education, scholarships, and mentorship in underserved communities—and her active presence at YMCA events and board meetings, she leads with heart and purpose. Maria’s compassion, integrity, and dedication to community make her a powerful force for connection and a true reflection of the Y’s core values.

Stacie Blair – Matt Griffin YMCA 

Stacie is a hands-on leader whose passion for service inspires everyone around her to get involved and make a difference. From organizing fundraisers such as a cycle-a-thon to donating supplies and recruiting new board members, Stacie consistently strengthens the YMCA community through generosity, creativity, and action. By living the Y’s core values in all she does, Stacie not only supports youth and families—she empowers others to lead, give, and grow alongside her.

Yvonne Spellman – Meredith Mathews East Madison YMCA 

Yvonne leads with heart, consistently inspiring others through her enthusiasm, compassion, and hands-on dedication to the YMCA community. Whether organizing inclusive events like the AOA potluck, advocating for member needs, or supporting staff well-being, Yvonne creates meaningful connections and fosters a culture of care. Yvonne embodies the Y’s core values in all she does—showing that leadership isn’t just about action, but about uplifting others and leading by example every step of the way.

Terry Schuler – Northshore YMCA 

Terry is a shining example of volunteer spirit, bringing warmth, energy, and a “say yes” attitude to everything she does. Whether delivering meal packs to families and seniors or sharing her personal Y story at the Annual Fund Drive Kickoff, Terry leads with heart and genuine care for her community. Terry’s consistent support of programs for Active Older Adults and her joyful presence make her a true bright spot in the Northshore Y.

Kent Hermes – Sammamish Community YMCA 

Kent leads with heart and humility, inspiring others through his dedicated service as a board member, pickleball coach, and community advocate at the Sammamish Y. Kent’s creative leadership in donor engagement and philanthropy has strengthened the Y’s sustainability while deepening community connections. Known for his honesty, respect, and genuine care, Kent embodies the Y’s core values and consistently goes above and beyond to make a lasting impact.

Gregory Jamiel – Snoqualmie Valley YMCA 

Greg is the driving force behind SnoValley Pride, creating inclusive spaces and meaningful events that foster LGBTQ+ visibility and connection in the Snoqualmie Valley. Through his compassionate leadership and strong partnerships, Greg has helped build a more welcoming and supportive community in a rural area that lacked such resources. Greg exemplifies the Y’s core values by leading with respect, caring, honesty, and responsibility to create lasting positive change.

Mary Hausladen – University Family YMCA 

Mary is a passionate and dedicated leader who consistently seeks ways to improve programs that support unhoused and food-insecure individuals in the University District. Her deep care for the community shines through in how she listens to guests’ needs and advocates for meaningful changes that provide choice and dignity. Volunteering truly energizes her, and her genuine enthusiasm inspires others to join her in service. Mary’s commitment goes beyond one-time efforts—she is a trusted thought partner who pushes the team to do more and serve better, embodying the heart of the Y’s mission through her tireless advocacy and compassionate leadership.

Cheryl Morisaki & Martin Loefflad – West Seattle & Fauntleroy YMCA 

Cheryl and Martin lead by example, showing that small, consistent acts of kindness can create a welcoming and inclusive gym community. Their genuine care and quiet leadership—whether helping newcomers navigate classes or bringing treats to lift spirits—foster connection and belonging for everyone. Embodying the Y’s core values through their respect, honesty, caring, and responsibility, they are the essential “hidden glue” that holds the neighborhood together and inspire others to pay it forward every day.

Beryl Tomay – Y Social Impact Center 

Beryl is a dynamic leader who transforms service into urgent, meaningful action by connecting people to the Y’s mission and inspiring sustained commitment. Through her leadership, Beryl has mobilized Amazon’s resources and volunteers to support vulnerable adults with safe housing, essential care packages, and community-building initiatives. Beyond organizing impactful events and partnerships, Beryl mentors board members and champions staff well-being, embodying a spirit of collaboration, integrity, and compassion that drives lasting, measurable change in the community.

Joyce Magnuson – Y Social Impact Center 

Joyce is a dedicated volunteer whose genuine kindness and creativity deeply impact the Enumclaw community, especially low-income youth. Through her homemade sandwiches, care packages, and craft projects, she not only provides essential support but also shares personal stories and a sense of connection that make each gift meaningful. Joyce truly embodies the Y’s core values of respect, honesty, responsibility, and caring, inspiring those around her with her humble commitment to nurturing and uplifting others.

Aimee Miner – Youth Development 

Aimee, a dedicated school principal, has been a vital partner in supporting youth through our BASE programs by securing space, coordinating behavioral supports, and strengthening communication between families, school staff, and our team. Aimee fosters a collaborative, inclusive environment where our staff feel valued and integrated into the school community. Aimee’s leadership ensures students and families receive the support they need both during and beyond the school day. 

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