The work of the YMCA of Greater Louisville would not be possible without the support of our incredible volunteers.

Each year, our branches nominate an outstanding volunteer to be recognized for their dedication and volunteerism. Learn about this year’s Volunteer of the Year recipients.

Lou Acuna

YMCA Camp Piomingo

Lou Acuna is the quiet force behind the magic at YMCA Camp Piomingo. For the past seven years, Lou has donated over 300 hours annually—operating heavy machinery, splitting logs, clearing trails, and tackling any task with precision and pride. Though he doesn’t serve on a board, his hands-on impact speaks volumes. Lou shows up every week with an unmatched work ethic, humility, and heart, fully embodying the YMCA’s core values. His deep commitment to the mission and behind-the-scenes service ensure YMCA Camp Piomingo stays safe, beautiful, and ready for adventure. Lou is the kind of volunteer who makes all the difference.

Quincy & Tessa Barnett

Chestnut Street Family YMCA

Quincy and Tessa Barnett have been a steady and inspiring presence as cluster leaders with the YMCA Black Achievers program for the past three years. Together, these devoted volunteers give their time recruiting other volunteers, sharing resources, and building meaningful relationships with the youth they lead. Quincy’s leadership in the Law & Government cluster has resulted in a partnership with the YMCA and the Louisville FBI field office. The Barnetts are also active parent-volunteers at key events such as our community service day and Kwanzaa multicultural celebration. Earlier this year, Quincy joined fellow leaders on a trip to Washington, D.C., representing our city and the impactful work done through the YMCA Black Achievers. We are proud to honor the Barnetts for their heartfelt dedication, leadership, and unwavering support.

Eva Geary

Clark County Family YMCA

Eva Geary has been part of the YMCA family most of her life—first as a camper, then as a dedicated volunteer and summer camp counselor. Since 2020, she’s returned each summer to serve as a joyful and consistent presence in our day camp, giving over 100 volunteer hours in 2024 alone. Eva leads with heart—guiding crafts, songs, games, and daily reflections rooted in our core values. Her inclusive spirit creates a space where all campers, especially those with diverse abilities, feel seen and empowered. Eva’s energy, empathy, and dedication truly reflect the mission of the Y and what it means to serve.

Tom Hayes

Downtown Family YMCA

Tom Hayes is dedicated to philanthropic support and leadership as a campaigner for the YMCA. Since joining the Downtown Family YMCA Board in 2012, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, including serving as Annual Campaign Chair for 2022–2023. Tom excels in donor stewardship, ensuring each donor feels valued and appreciated through personalized, thoughtful acknowledgments. His ability to secure vital funds and nurture strong, meaningful relationships with supporters has shaped our success and strengthened our community. This campaign season, he has raised nearly $10,000—a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Y cause.

Rose Schilmiller

Floyd County Family YMCA

Rose Schilmiller is a shining example of purpose-driven leadership, and we’re proud to honor her as a Volunteer of the Year. As Annual Campaign Chair, Rose dedicated over 30 hours of heartfelt service, using her personal YMCA story to inspire others and rally support. She helped lead the innovative use of "Just Giving" pages, expanding the reach and impact of our campaign. A devoted member of the Floyd County Family YMCA’s Board of Advisors, Rose uplifts everyone she serves alongside—volunteers, staff, and members alike. Her passion, authenticity, and leadership embody the very best of our YMCA community.

John Walsh

Northeast Family YMCA

John Walsh is a cancer survivor, a passionate advocate, and one of our most dedicated YMCA volunteers. In 2024, John gave over 320 hours of service to support LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA—a program that helped him rebuild his life. His journey from survivor to supporter has inspired countless others. For over a decade, John has led with consistency, compassion, and lived experience, and has amassed more than $100,000 in combined personal and campaign contributions. With his brother now benefiting from our Parkinson’s program, John’s connection to the Y continues to grow, lifting lives and strengthening our community.

Aman Gupta

YMCA at Norton Commons

Aman Gupta is a passionate leader and tireless advocate for the YMCA at Norton Commons, currently serving as Annual Campaign Chair. With energy, heart, and unwavering dedication, he leads our board in raising awareness and critical funds to support the YMCA’s mission of strengthening spirit, mind, and body. Aman is a true champion of community, sharing the Y’s impact at every opportunity and encouraging others to give and get involved. His leadership has elevated our campaign efforts and inspired a ripple effect of generosity and service. Thanks to Aman, our reach—and our impact—continues to grow.

Katie Tate

Oldham County Family YMCA

Katie Tate has been a committed leader at the Oldham County Family YMCA for the past five years, serving as a Board Member and Annual Campaign Chair in 2023 and 2024, and will continue both roles for 2025. Katie brings heart and strategy to everything she does, from leading meetings and mentoring volunteers to organizing fundraising efforts and engaging with the community. Her leadership has built momentum, deepened relationships, and helped the Y exceed its campaign goals. Alongside her generous personal giving, Katie has leveraged her network to secure additional support, making a lasting impact on our mission and our community.

Carrye Jones

Republic Bank Foundation YMCA

Carrye Jones is a dynamic volunteer leader whose impact at the Republic Bank Foundation YMCA has been nothing short of transformational. As board chair for the past two years, she guided the branch through a period of transition with strength, grace, and unwavering commitment. Carrye leads by example—showing up, supporting staff and volunteers, and energizing everyone around her. Her consistent presence at events and her passion for the Y’s mission have made her a true champion for the community. Carrye’s servant leadership inspires others to step up, give back, and be a part of something bigger than themselves.

Kelly Nixon

YMCA Safe Place Services

Kelly Nixon is a dedicated Y-NOW mentor who’s been uplifting children whose parents are in prison or battling addiction with compassion and consistency for the past eight years. A trusted role model, Kelly brings wisdom, positivity, and thoughtful insight to every conversation, supporting staff and youth with grace. She’s a fierce advocate for fellow mentors, always encouraging and uplifting others. A breast cancer survivor, dog mom, tennis lover, and unapologetic UK fan, Kelly finds joy in sunny days, travel, and a good Mexican meal. Her heart for service, adaptability, and unwavering presence make her an irreplaceable part of the Y-NOW community and an inspiration to us all.

Deb Sexton

Southeast Family YMCA

Deb Sexton is the heart behind our thriving English as a Second Language program, dedicating countless hours in 2024 to help it grow from small groups to a life-changing experience for over 180 participants. Every Thursday, Deb shows up with purpose and heart—teaching, mentoring, and creating a space where everyone feels seen, valued, and empowered. Her servant spirit shines both in the classroom and behind the scenes (especially during Spin-a-Thon season, snacks included!). Whether she’s supporting her students or cheering on her board chair husband, Deb does it all with grace, generosity, and a contagious smile. She truly embodies what it means to serve.

Marilyn Canterbury

Southwest Family YMCA

Marylin Canterbury is the heartbeat of the Southwest Family YMCA. With kindness, consistency, and a true servant's heart, she shows up early to prepare class equipment and stays after to ensure everything is cleaned and put away. She’s the first to welcome new members, offering support and encouragement that makes them feel right at home. Marylin’s care extends beyond the gym—she checks in on members, builds real connections, and lifts up everyone around her. Her quiet leadership and joyful energy inspire others to show up, try new things, and belong. Marylin truly embodies the spirit of the Y.

To learn more about how you can volunteer with the YMCA of Greater Louisville, visit our website.