“Growing Our Future” celebration honors Stephen Hendrickson with Community Compass Award and brings together community leaders and supporters to expand access to YMCA programs
PEABODY, MA — September 18, 2026 — The YMCA of Metro North raised more than $450,000 at its 10th Annual Where in the World Gala on Thursday, September 17, bringing together hundreds of community leaders, donors, volunteers and friends in support of scholarships and financial assistance for children and families across the region.
Held at the Boston Marriott Peabody, this year’s Growing Our Future celebration recognized entrepreneur and philanthropist Stephen Hendrickson with the YMCA’s 2026 Community Compass Award for his decades of leadership, generosity and investment in projects that have expanded opportunities throughout Lynn, Peabody and beyond.
The evening began with a special President’s Club reception opened by former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker. State Representative Dan Cahill served as master of ceremonies for the celebration, which featured inspiring stories of YMCA impact, live and silent auctions, raffles and entertainment.
One of the night’s memorable auction moments came when Steve DiFillippio, owner and chef of Davio’s Northern Italian Steakhouse, took the stage to auction an exclusive dinner for eight.
“More than $450,000 raised in one evening represents something much bigger than a fundraising total,” said Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro North. “It represents the generosity and confidence of people who believe every child and family should have access to the opportunities the YMCA provides. That support helps us open doors to childcare, camp, swim lessons, health and wellness programs, youth development and so much more, regardless of someone’s ability to pay.”
Hendrickson’s relationship with the YMCA of Metro North spans decades. He worked alongside former YMCA CEO Bruce MacDonald and former Peabody Mayor Peter Torigian to help raise funds for the construction of the Torigian Family YMCA, which opened in 2006. He later supported the development of the Demakes Family YMCA in Lynn and the YMCA’s recently opened Music & Performing Arts Center.
“I have such a great appreciation for the remarkable work that our local Y’s do, making a difference for children, youth and adults from all walks of life in so many ways,” Hendrickson said. “To receive the Community Compass Award is quite simply an incredible honor, for which I’m extraordinarily grateful.”
The 2026 gala also marked a major milestone for the YMCA of Metro North. Over the past 10 years, Where in the Worldcelebrations have raised millions of dollars to strengthen YMCA programs and provide financial assistance to individuals and families throughout its communities.
Funds raised this year will help ensure that cost does not prevent children, teens, adults and families from participating in YMCA programs and services.
EVENT PHOTOS AND VIDEO
Event Photos:
https://ymcaofmetronorth.box.com/s/6jovbz7rih6v80h8wyasap80ta8zic8j
Stephen Hendrickson Community Compass Award Tribute:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iTEVkhBVWg
2026 Gala Recap Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWhE5g6Bkp8
Additional quotes, interviews and information are available upon request.
About the YMCA of Metro North
The YMCA of Metro North is a leading nonprofit organization serving children, adults and families throughout the communities of Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, Stoneham and surrounding areas. Through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility programs, the YMCA works to strengthen communities and ensure that everyone has access to opportunities to learn, grow and thrive.