Kevin Bolding, Amelia McLeod and Len Williams having a conversation about Legacy and giving back to the community at the Leonard & Marjorie Williams Family YMCA

First Friday Conversations

In our last episode, we heard from Barbara about the “Social Club” at the Y. This month, I sat down with Len Williams and his daughter Amelia McLeod at the Leonard & Marjorie Williams Family YMCA to discuss a powerful theme: Legacy.

Legacy is about more than just a name on a building; it’s about the ownership we take in our community.

The Williams family has a deep history with the Y, starting with Len’s father, Leonard, whose fondest childhood memories were of the Y being the “hub of activity” in his hometown. Today, that legacy continues across three generations of giving, from sending a child to summer camp to ensuring every child has the life-saving opportunity to learn to swim.

In this conversation, Len and Amelia share how they are passing down the spirit of philanthropy and why every gift—no matter the size—creates a bridge between communities and provides life-changing opportunities like summer camp and swim lessons.

Animated gif of the First Friday Conversations Episode 3 interview

I hope their story inspires you to think about the legacy you are building in your own community.

Until next time… 

Kevin Bolding, President & CEO
YMCA of Central Florida

The Y. For a better us.®

First Friday messages offer a monthly peak behind the veil of leading through change from the Y’s President & CEO.