Dan Wilcox, YMCA of Central Florida President/CEO; Mike Manuel, YMCA Metro Board Chair; and Wayne Humphrey, YMCA Senior Vice President for Public Policy, were among more than 100 Y leaders from across the nation who recently attended YMCA National Advocacy Days in Washington, D.C.
During the event, the group met with lawmakers to promote broader awareness of the Y cause and mission. Also discussed were potential collaborations in areas where the Y is already meeting the growing demand for quality youth programs, health and wellness resources, and outreach within fragile communities.
Local Y leaders met with Representatives Darren DeSoto and Stephanie Murray, HUD officials, U.S. Senate Chaplain Barry Black, and ranking members of the Senate Finance Committee. They also attended a Y-USA event honoring Senators Chuck Grassley and Al Franken for their advocacy on behalf of youth, education, and families.
Wilcox, who characterized the meetings as productive, said he looks forward to ongoing discussions with lawmakers and public/private partners at every level.
“As the Y of Central Florida seeks to improve the lives of 600,000 Central Floridians, our organization is partnering across our region, state and nation to make a real and lasting difference,” he said. “It’s all about impact. And by being strategic, collaborative, and mission-focused, the Y is drawing influential advocates to our cause of improving lives and strengthening communities.”