The YMCA of Metro North brought together volunteers, staff, and community partners for its 2026 Annual Meeting, for a celebration of the people and partnerships helping the Y create stronger, healthier, and more connected communities across the region.

The event highlighted the YMCA’s continued work as a leading community nonprofit organization. It also recognized other outstanding individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and partnership reflect the mission and values of the Y.

This year’s honorees included Northeast Metropolitan Regional Vocational Technical School, recipient of the Community Partner Award; Andrew Demakes and Demakes Bros., recognized for their extraordinary commitment to expanding opportunity in the Lynn community; the Melrose Family YMCA Lifesaving CPR Team, honored for their quick actions and commitment to member safety; and the YMCA of Metro North’s Y Champion Scholars, who received college scholarships for their dedication to the Y’s mission.

The Annual Meeting also honored Dave Gravel, founder of GraVoc and outgoing Chair of the YMCA of Metro North Board of Directors, with the Outstanding Leadership Award. Gravel was recognized for his dedicated service, steady guidance, and belief in the Y’s ability to strengthen communities through connection, innovation, and opportunity.

“Every year, our Annual Meeting gives us the chance to celebrate what makes the YMCA of Metro North so special: the people and partners who make our mission possible,” said Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro North. “Our staff, volunteers, donors, partners, board members, and members all play a role in creating a community where people feel welcomed, supported, and part of something meaningful. This year’s award winners remind us that the Y’s mission is not something we do alone. It is something we do together, with partners and neighbors who believe in showing up for one another and helping our communities grow stronger.”

The 2026 Annual Meeting also provided an opportunity to reflect on the YMCA of Metro North’s impact over the past year and the organization’s continued focus on creating connected communities. Across its branches in Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, and Stoneham, the Y continues to provide programs and services that support children and families.

“Events like this remind us what the Y is all about: people, purpose, and community,” said Jerry Salerno, Senior Vice President of Commercial Lending at TruNorth Bank and incoming Chair of the YMCA of Metro North Board of Directors. “I am honored to step into this role and look forward to working with Kathleen, our board, staff, volunteers, donors, and partners to help lead this incredible organization into its next chapter.”

To learn more about the YMCA of Metro North’s Annual Meeting and community impact, visit www.ymcametronorth.org/support/annual–meeting/.