YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg

After 42 years of service with the YMCA, including 17 as our President and CEO, David W. Jezek will retire at the end of this year. From expanding early childhood education to securing historic funding for transformative projects, David has always put people first. His passion, vision and dedication will leave a lasting impact on our organization. Thank you, David! ?? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eQs4k4vp

It was great hosting the Pinellas Community Foundation at Speer YMCA to share the lasting impact of their support. We extend our gratitude to the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners for the $1.34 million ARPA grant in 2023, which helped us expand programs and services. We’re grateful for our shared vision of building a stronger, healthier community!

Our Y is proud to partner with Metropolitan Ministries to support families experiencing homelessness in Pinellas County. As part of this initiative, the Y will provide high-quality early childhood education for children living at the David and Virginia Baldwin and Lealman Transitional Residence facilities. #BetterTogether Read more: https://lnkd.in/ecjPwVQ8

Congratulations to Lisa Speer Vickers of the Speer Dream Foundation who was honored today as a Hurricane Hero by Congresswoman Kathy Castor. The Speer Dream Foundation awarded $800,000 to nine local non-profits for hurricane relief last fall. YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg was the grateful recipient of some of those funds, allowing us to distribute 23 grants ranging from $500 to $5000 for Hurricane Relief. The community is stronger thanks to the generous support of the Speer Dream Foundation.

Last night, we had the incredible honor of awarding a $1,000 scholarship to Xavier, an outstanding senior at Lakewood High School, at the Annual Vyrle Davis Awards! ??? Xavier has been involved in our Y community, even volunteering with the YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas Program. We are proud to support his future and can’t wait to see all that he accomplishes! Congratulations, Xavier!

Today, we celebrated our 7th annual Celebration of Impact to honor employees and volunteers who excelled in 2024, embodying the Y's mission. ?? Join us in applauding this year's standout awardees: - Volunteer of the Year: Lance Latimer, Youth Sports Coach - Unsung Hero: Cheryl Calder, HR Administrator - Impact Award: Natasha Walker, Community Health Specialist - Leadership Award: Craig James, AVP, Membership & Programs Kudos to all the recipients and nominees for your incredible contributions and thank you for all that you do in support of our organization. #StPeteYMCA #BetterTogether

Our team had an amazing time representing our Y at the USF Job & Career Fair! ?? HR and YReads! teams met some incredible talent and shared all the ways the Y is more than just a place to work—it’s a place to make a difference! ?? If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding career, check out our open positions today! https://lnkd.in/eYBeir8a

We are thrilled to share that Carla Struckhoff is now Chief Human Resources Officer for our Y! For over a decade, Carla has been a driving force behind our commitment to hiring and retaining top-tier talent, championing our Employer of Choice strategic pillar, and fostering a workplace culture where every team member feels valued and supported. Her leadership has elevated our organization through enhanced benefits, strengthened culture, and initiatives that ensure our staff thrives. Beyond HR, Carla plays a vital role in risk management and is a fierce advocate for child and youth safety, serving as one of three Certified Praesidium Guardians on staff. This well-earned title reflects her impact as a principal leader within our organization. Please join us in congratulating Carla on this well-deserved recognition! #Leadership #YMCA

YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg is proud to announce the addition of Caroline Kwiatkowski, CFA, to our Board of Directors. Caroline’s exceptional career in finance and investment management, combined with her dedication to community service, aligns perfectly with the YMCA’s mission to empower individuals and families to thrive. Welcome aboard, Caroline! ??

Thank you for your support of our YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Program! ?? ?? The YMCA Neighbor to Neighbor Christmas Program brought joy to 318 families and 827 children this holiday season! Together, we distributed 3,626 toys, provided food through The St. Petersburg Free Clinic and created unforgettable memories. Your kindness continues to strengthen our community year-round through family events, youth sports and more. Thank you for making a difference!