MEDIA ADVISORY

For Immediate Release. 

Media Contact

Email: pr@seattleymca.org  

• Vannessa Blea 
  Senior Director of Communications 
• Steven Hatting 
  Chief Experience & Philanthropy Officer 

Note to Editors: High-resolution photos and additional information about the event and honorees are available upon request. 

For more information and event registration, please visit here.

Seattle, WA, August 6, 2023 – It's not every day that you get to celebrate trailblazers and game-changers who have dedicated their lives to making the world a better place. On September 27, 2023, the YMCA of Greater Seattle will host its 35th annual Celebrating Community Changemakers philanthropy luncheon at the Seattle Convention Center’s dazzling new Summit building. This year, our keynote address features an inspiring local leader who takes community building to a truly “professional” level. And we are beyond thrilled to honor two extraordinary individuals who have gone above and beyond to create engaging and provocative new spaces in our consciousness as well as our city. 

Maggie Walker: A.K. Guy Award Honoree - Shaping Seattle's Future 

"Maggie is a force of nature – the kind of leader who never backs down from a challenge, but instead sees it as an opportunity for growth," said a fellow community member. For over 50 years, Maggie has been instrumental in changing Seattle's future for the better. Her unwavering and unlimited dedication to this region’s well-being has earned her the Y’s highest volunteer recognition, the A.K. Guy Award. 

An advocate for Whole Person Health, Maggie believes that true community well-being begins by nurturing the spirit, mind, and body. Her extensive involvement in organizations such as Friends of the Waterfront, National Audubon Society, Woodland Park Zoo, Seattle Art Museum, and the University of Washington showcases her love for art, culture, learning, and the world around us. 

From protecting the environment and enhancing education to leaving indelible marks on our cityscape, Maggie's tireless efforts have helped make Seattle a better place for all of us. 

Megan Rapinoe: Judge Charles V. and Lazelle Johnson Excellence in Social Justice Award Honoree - A Voice for Justice 

Megan Rapinoe is not just a world-class athlete; she is also a renowned and recognized champion for human rights. Known for her powerful voice both on and off the pitch, Megan has fearlessly championed gender pay equality, racial justice, and LGBTQIAA+ rights. Her dedication to social justice has earned her the Judge Charles V. and Lazelle Johnson Excellence in Social Justice Award. 

Beyond her World Cups and Olympic Gold, Megan received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor in the nation. She is a convener of thought and a catalyst for action, embodying the YMCA's commitment to equity and justice for all. 

Tod Leiweke: Keynote Speaker – A True COMMUNITY Spotlight 

Release the Kra...oops, we mean Realize the POTENTIAL! After all, that's precisely what this year’s keynote speaker does. Seattle Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke finds a win with every team and every challenge he takes on. His passion for youth development and vision for community development has helped change how professional sports teams in the NFL, NHL, and MLS define success and instill civic pride. From the 12th Man to celebrating the Hero of the Deep, Tod treats community members like All-Stars by turning the spotlight around. As a result, we’re big fans of Tod’s commitment to serving those around him and look forward to hearing the best practices in motivating moments he’ll share on September 27. 

You're Invited! 

The YMCA of Greater Seattle Board of Directors cordially invites you and your guests to join us at the Celebrating Community Changemakers luncheon on Wednesday, September 27, 2023, at the Seattle Convention Center – Summit building. This special event recognizes what it means to be a community changemaker and invites everyone to join in the Y’s legacy of giving back and changing lives throughout the Pacific Northwest.  

For 147 years, leaders have joined the Y community in dedication to providing safe places for youth and families to grow and become their best selves. Funding raised during the Celebrating Community Changemakers luncheon will advance our continuing mission to create opportunities for all. 

REGISTER TODAY to secure your spot at this inspiring event! 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous partners and sponsors who make this celebration and the Y's vital work possible: Ballmer Group, Casey Family Programs, Premera, Microsoft, Schultz Family Foundation, Delta Air Lines, Amazon, Delta Dental, Deloitte, and Baird. 

About YMCA of Greater Seattle 

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the Y provides crucial programs and services to more than 120,299 people every year in the Greater Seattle area. With the help of generous donors, we are able to provide more than 450 youth experiencing homelessness with safe, stable housing every night, over 400,000 meals served across King County annually, and more than $11 million in financial assistance to ensure everyone has a chance to succeed and belong at the Y. 

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