Congratulations to Bob Gilbertson and Clara Reynolds! Thank you for all you do.
Volunteers, leaders and supporters – Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA hosted friends and honored outstanding individuals on November 20, 2024, at our annual Community Impact Celebration. Presented by Regions and BayCare, the event was hosted at the beautiful Tampa Theatre and saw about 400 in attendance.
Emceed by the Tampa Bay Lightning’s Greg Wolf and Braydon Coburn, the evening showcased the Tampa YMCA’s robust impact on the community as heart-warming videos, testimonials and stories were shared.
Well-known community leader Clara Reynolds, Crisis Center of Tampa Bay President & CEO was presented with the 2024 Community Impact Award. The prestigious Red Triangle Award was given to Bob Gilbertson. The celebration also highlighted 11 YMCA Center Volunteers of the Year who were recognized for their unwavering commitment to helping children, families and seniors reach their full potential.
Clara Reynolds is a distinguished executive leader with over 19 years of experience in managing Tampa Bay nonprofits. Since July 2015, Clara has overseen a large team and plays a pivotal role in serving over 160,000 individuals annually. Under her guidance, the Crisis Center strives to ensure that no one in our community has to face crisis alone.
“Thank you Tampa YMCA for this honor. We live in an incredible community. The work I do day in and day out is incredibly stressful. I look to the YMCA to be my place for self-care, solace and community. I have been a proud member of the Bob Sierra Family YMCA for 22 years! I have made amazing friends there. Thank you Tampa YMCA for always supporting our community in huge ways,” she enthused.
The Red Triangle Award is given to a volunteer whose leadership and service reflect the countless lives transformed through their generous contributions. With his 45-year YMCA career, Bob Gilbertson is Tampa Y’s longest-serving president from 1981-2007. The namesake of our Central City YMCA, he is a champion of advancing the Y mission, underserved communities and youth. Bob always focused on “where the Y was needed the most.” He initiated market research and developed methods to reach families unable to afford the Y. In addition, he established the largest teen leadership development program in the southeast. Under his leadership, the Tampa Y grew from serving 5,000 to over 130,000 members/program participants annually and from five to 14 centers.
“All of you helped us grow and sustain – the staff, supporters and volunteers. I am thankful to the Tampa YMCA for this honor. What always resonates with me is that the time and treasure we give to others is the rent we pay for the space we occupy in this world. I hope everyone keeps supporting the Tampa YMCA.”
Congratulations to all the honorees. We are deeply grateful for all you do for the Tampa YMCA.
Published Thursday, November 21, 2024.