YMCA to recognize supporters at annual dinner 

0
407

NAUGATUCK — The Naugatuck YMCA will honor a group of individuals and two local organizations for their support of the YMCA at its Annual Dinner in June.

The dinner, which will also highlight the Naugatuck YMCA’s accomplishments over the past year, is June 6 at the Crystal Room, 98 School St. Tickets are $50 per person. For information or to RSVP, contact Sherri Beck at 203-729-9622 or sbeck@naugatuckymca.org.

The Fredrick D. Zonino Memorial Volunteer of the Year Award is given annually to an individual whose spirit of volunteerism and unselfish efforts are devoted to the values and mission of the Naugatuck YMCA. This year’s recipient is William P. Mis, who is being honored for his commitment, tireless service on the YMCA Board of Directors and dedication to the YMCA.

The Robert Whittemore Unsung Hero Award is given to individuals who quietly help behind the scenes to benefit the Naugatuck YMCA and the community. This year’s recipient is Adam Purcaro, who volunteers to coach in the Little Pal Basketball League

“There are people at the YMCA that we count on to make special things happen for the youth of our community. Adam’s efforts help make young athletes learn the game of basketball, as well as, confidence, hard work and competing as a team,” a news release stated. “Adam continually steps up and makes things happen with no other reason than to help the community.”

The Jeffrey Witherwax Community Leadership Award recognizes local organizations and businesses for their support of the Naugatuck YMCA and the community. This year’s recipients are the Beacon Falls Lions Club and Beacon Falls Lioness Club. They are being honored for their dedication to the YMCA as well as the many other nonprofit organizations in Naugatuck and Beacon Falls.

The Mary Elizabeth Mannweiler Employee of the Year Award recognizes the dedication of a YMCA employee. This year’s recipient is Catherine Proto, who is in her third year as sports and recreation director at the YMCA.

Proto oversees over 13 youth sports and fitness programs including the Little Pal Basketball League and the Triano-Rossi Boxing Program. She has added new programs to fulfill the needs expressed by the community and continues to build upon existing programs, the release stated.

The YMCA Member of the Year Award will be given to Wayne Bond, who has been a member of the YMCA since 1978. Bond, who was raised in Watertown, worked at Uniroyal for 25 years as an IT professional. Bond is a regular in the YMCA’s fitness center and treadmill workouts, the release stated.