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Local Voices

Scott Strickland is 2013 Northwest Family YMCA volunteer of year

SCOTT   STRICKLAND NAMED 2013 VOLUNTEER OF YEAR

 Scott Strickland, a resident of Acworth, is receiving the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s 2013 Volunteer of the Year award for his service at the Northwest Family YMCA in Kennesaw. His work will be honored at the annual volunteer recognition dinner Monday, November 4, 2013. 

Strickland is the parent volunteer coordinator for the Y’s swim team, which had 58 participants in its first year. “This was the team’s inaugural year, and Strickland made sure the program was a success,” says Jude Dooley, executive director of the Northwest Family Y. “Scott led the parents who volunteered and handled the logistics, communication and organization for the swim meets. He was instrumental in setting up the team for growth. Scott is a dynamic advocate for the YMCA and is invested in the Y’s success.” 

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“My favorite part of being involved with swim team is seeing children blossom,” says Strickland. “Many show up barely knowing how to swim and become proud, dedicated, strong swimmers. The Y is a perfect place for kids to put themselves out there in an accepting environment and discover success, friendship and camaraderie.” 

Strickland’s first Y connection was in grade school in Durham, N.C. He was active in YMCA summer camp, basketball leagues and weekly visits as a family. He also attended YMCA overnight camp at Camp Kanata for a number of years. 

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 “Through my volunteer work, I achieve a sense of giving back to those who gave to me while I was growing up,” says Strickland. “This includes Y staff and volunteers, high school coaches and older friends who mentored me in developing a love of sports, the values of sportsmanship and being active. The Y gives me a vehicle to give back to those I can’t thank or do anything for personally.” 

Strickland and his wife, Susan, have five children. He is a technical delivery lead with Milestone Banking Solutions. He also volunteers as a swim team coordinator at the Cobb Summer Swim League, with the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association Atlanta and is a Watch Dog program participant with Cobb County Schools.

The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and connect. Call 770-423-9622 or visit http://www.ymcaatlanta.org.

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