Warwick, RI – The Greater Providence YMCA (GPYMCA) is proud to announce its 2025 Y Heroes honorees, an inspiring group of individuals and organizations who have gone above and beyond to uplift the GPYMCA community. These honorees will be celebrated at the annual Y Heroes event on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, at 8:00 AM at the Crowne Plaza Hotel – Grand Ballroom in Warwick, RI.

“The impact of the Y Heroes extends far beyond this event,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of the GPYMCA. “Each honoree has played a key role in strengthening the GPYMCA community, expanding access to essential services, and making a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, the funds raised at Y Heroes will allow us to continue delivering life-changing programs and resources to individuals and families who rely on the Y every day.”

The Y Heroes event is the GPYMCA’s signature annual fundraiser. It ensures that the GPYMCA can continue providing financial assistance, wellness programs, youth development initiatives, and community support services. The generosity of sponsors and attendees directly strengthens the GPYMCA’s ability to serve those who need it most.

This year’s honorees are:

• David Cicilline – A lifelong public servant and advocate for opportunity and community empowerment, David Cicilline’s impact on the GPYMCA is both direct and far-reaching. As a former U.S. Congressman and Mayor of Providence, he was instrumental in securing federal funding for Y programs across Rhode Island, expanding access to childcare, wellness, and education initiatives. Now, as President and CEO of the Rhode Island Foundation, he continues to champion initiatives that align with the GPYMCA’s mission, including education, inclusion, and economic mobility. His work helps ensure that the GPYMCA remains a pillar of opportunity and access for all Rhode Islanders.
• Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation – A steadfast supporter of the GPYMCA’s mission, the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation has been instrumental in ensuring children in Y programs have access to nutritious meals that support their health, learning, and overall well-being. Led by Victor Carvalho, Dunkin’ Franchisee and Board Chairman, and supported by Carlos Andrade, Dunkin’ Franchisee and foundation supporter, the organization’s $50,000 grant has provided healthy snacks and meals to children in the GPYMCA’s Out of School Time (OST) programs, before/after school care, and summer camps. Their commitment ensures that every child in the GPYMCA community has the nourishment they need to reach their full potential.
• Captain Justin Dutra – As a leader in the Cranston Police Department’s Community Outreach and Special Projects Division, Captain Dutra has worked closely with the Cranston Y to build stronger relationships between law enforcement and local families. A dedicated Cranston Y Advisory Council member, he has led youth safety and mentorship initiatives, including donating bike helmets for Race 4 Chase participants, furnishing childcare spaces, hosting National Night Out at the Cranston Y, and developing a teen mentorship program. His efforts have strengthened community trust and created meaningful opportunities for young people at the Y.
• Rylee Kelly – A standout student-athlete at the University of Rhode Island, Rylee has leveraged the power of athletics to foster mentorship and community engagement at the South County Y. As a liaison between URI Women’s Athletics and the South County Y, she has led efforts to connect student-athletes with youth in the Y’s Out of School Time (OST) programs, providing mentorship and positive role models. Her leadership reinforces the GPYMCA’s commitment to youth development, ensuring that the next generation of leaders has role models who are both exemplary and accessible, fostering a culture of guidance and support within the Y community.
• Mike Montecalvo – A respected journalist and anchor at WPRI 12, Mike is being honored for his deep commitment to community service and unwavering dedication to the GPYMCA’s mission. As a board member of the GPYMCA for nine years, he has played a pivotal role in guiding the organization’s strategic vision and fundraising efforts, ensuring its long-term impact. Mike has amplified awareness of the Y’s transformative programs through his storytelling and media platform, helping connect more families to critical GPYMCA services that promote youth development, wellness, and empowerment.
• The Yan Family – Siblings Donna and Steve Yan are being recognized for their longstanding commitment to the GPYMCA and their dedication to preserving their mother’s legacy through the Elsie Chin Yan Memorial Garden at the Newman Y. This garden serves as an educational resource where children engage in hands-on learning about gardening and nature. Annually, it yields between 1,000 and 1,500 pounds of fresh vegetables donated to local organizations and Newman Y members, addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy living. Donna and Steve’s ongoing efforts ensure that this shared space remains welcoming and inclusive, reinforcing the Y’s belief that stronger, more connected communities begin with meaningful shared spaces

Join Us in Celebrating and Supporting the Y’s Mission

Tickets are $100 per person and $1,000 for a table of 10. Sponsorship opportunities are available. To purchase tickets or explore ways to support the GPYMCA’s mission, contact Jade Ford, Senior Director of Development, at jford@gpymca.org or Text YHeroes25 to 41444

About the Greater Providence YMCA

The GPYMCA serves communities across Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts through its six branches (five in Rhode Island, one in Seekonk, MA) and Camp Fuller (its overnight camp). GPYMCA provides accessible programs for all ages, promoting health, wellness, recreation, and youth development. Through high-quality Out of School Time programs and community-based initiatives, it fosters academic enrichment, life skills, and stronger communities.

The Greater Providence YMCA is looking ahead to the spring and summer with programs ranging from culinary arts to engineering to keep kids learning year-round, continuing the recently launched after-school program at Hugh B. Bain Middle School.

The After School Enrichment Program was created through a Learn365RI grant from the state. Learn365RI is an out-of-school learning initiative by Gov. Dan McKee that aims to extend learning opportunities beyond the traditional school day and calendar by supporting partnerships between municipalities, schools and community organizations.

Through a $366,327 Learn365RI grant to the city, the program works with other organizations, such as the Rhode Island Institute for Labor Studies and the Cranston Health Equity Zone.

Karen Santilli, CEO of GPYMCA, says the program is a wonderful collaboration, with each organization taking on a different role to ensure that students have enrichment opportunities.

The Cranston Health Equity Zone works to connect families to community resources and mentorship, while the GPYMCA implements the programs.

Students can join the program at no cost and can choose from over 12 studies, including culinary arts, 3D art, engineering, theater, art and crafts, sports zone and much more.

Jodiana Lombardi, program director of the After School Enrichment program, said that growing up, she did after-school programming. When she heard about the program being built at Bain, she was excited to be a part of it.

“I think for a lot of kids, especially for middle school students, there isn’t as much of a focus put on providing accessible opportunities for them,” Lombardi said. “So here we’ve tried to provide students with things from culinary arts and having the opportunity to learn how to cook and be with their friends, to sports and getting to develop their skill sets there to engineering. We want to help these kids discover who they want to be in the future as well as supporting their families. And I think with afterschool programming, especially with this age demographic, there’s so many opportunities within that.”  

Bain has had after-school programs throughout its history, Lombardi said, so when the community heard it was coming back, teachers, students and families were excited and supportive.

“And we have parents who are showing up to almost all of the events that we’ve hosted to come and be a part of the activities we have,” Lombardi said. “The teachers have greatly enjoyed the program. Bain has been very receptive to all the programming that we’ve wanted to do here.”

Some Bain teachers have helped lead these activities after school despite working throughout the day from as early as 6 or 7 a.m.

“Almost all of our providers are Bain teachers, and they’re so committed to supporting their students and building this community and providing all these different opportunities for students to learn,” Lombardi said. “It’s just something that I really applaud and appreciate.”

Since its launch a few weeks ago, the program has enrolled more than 120 students. On an average day, Lombardi said, they have 45 to50 kids. But, during the warmer weather, there was one “chaotic” day when they had 98 kids at once.

Janiya Ashley, a leader in the program, says the program helps kids get out of their comfort zones and is a great outlet for them to have fun.

“I know the kids that talk to me, the ones that are usually here every day, they enjoy it,” Ashley said. “They love communicating with their friends. Even I think Esther said that she loves the staff. We do have a group of kids who will, when we’re signing people in, they’ll come sit with us. They’ll tell us about their day. Yeah, I think it’s good.”

Seventh-grade Bain student Esther Fernandez chose culinary arts.

That program is run by Robert Finelli, and he and Esther were working on Oreo balls together in the kitchen. She said she has loved her time being in the program, especially with the staff.

“I think it should be a part of, not just the kids who don’t have nothing to do after school, the kids who also have other stuff to do, but they can also come and enjoy time with their friends and some of the teachers that are in our original schoolwork here,” Esther said. “So that also helps them communicate more with the teachers.”

Quadir Blake and Myles Smith have been a part of the program, trying out different activities, and they agreed that the program has helped them with communication and talking to others.

Blake said Sports Zone, which is a fitness-focused program led by a Brown University fellow, Leah Carey, who comes in and teaches them various fitness activities, helped him a lot.

“In the Sports Zone I’ve learned to connect with more people and play with more people,” Blake said. “And usually before we go to the sports or anything, they let us have time to do homework and do communication or just talk to other people. So that helped me talk or get more friends.”

One hope for the program is that it will help with students’ attendance in school. Through the program, Santilli said attendance is something they will measure.

“One thing I can say, we’ve had really strong attendance,” Lombardi said. “We require students who attend our Friday programs, they have to be in school all week in order to attend. That’s one of our pushes. But also consistently, we have about 50 students who are showing up to our program daily. In order to come to our program, you had to have been in school that day. You can’t come in [only] after school.”

The current model of the program is based off three sessions. As the fall session ends, Lombardi said, they are preparing for spring and summer programming but hope to build a full-year model of programs.

The Learn365RI grant is only available for about a year and a half. Current plans are for programming through August 2025

“I want students to come here and feel like they can be themselves,” Lombardi said. “I want families to recognize our program as being a resource. So, we’re a group that if a family needs something, if they’re struggling, if students need something academically, emotionally, socially, we’re here to support.”

PROVIDENCE, RI –  The East Side/Mt. Hope YMCA recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of Sophia Academy students to complete the Y’s Safety Around Water program. This milestone marks the success of a new partnership between Sophia Academy and the East Side/Mt. Hope Y, which offers a year-long swim program to students at Sophia Academy.

Michele Fontes, Dean of Students at Sophia Academy, Mike Rollins, Executive Director of the East Side/Mt.Hope Y, and Megan Fiske Aquatics Coordinator at the East Side/Mt.Hope Y worked together to establish the swim program partnership.

“The Greater Providence YMCA remains dedicated to fostering meaningful and long-lasting community partnerships,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of the Greater Providence YMCA. “We are incredibly grateful for our relationship with Sophia Academy. By working together, we’re addressing a critical need and creating opportunities for students to build confidence and life-saving skills. We look forward to expanding partnerships like this across all of our branches to better serve local communities.”

Led by East Side/Mt. Hope Aquatics Coordinator Megan Fiske and a team of six Y swim instructors, the program provides comprehensive water safety education over three months. It equips students with essential skills to stay safe in and around water, while fostering confidence and lifelong awareness.

The program combines in-water training with out-of-water activities to reinforce key lessons, including asking for permission before entering the water, how to call 911, and what critical information to provide during emergencies. The Y’s tailored approach meets each student at their skill level, allowing them to progress at a comfortable pace for optimal learning and retention.

“Our focus at the East Side/Mt. Hope Y is to provide water safety education to underserved communities, addressing drowning disparities among high-risk youth. By empowering these young women, we’re not just teaching life-saving skills—they’re breaking generational cycles of fear and building a healthy relationship with water to pass on to future generations which is truly inspiring,” said Megan Fiske, Aquatics Coordinator at the East Side/Mt. Hope YMCA.

The swim program at the East Side/Mt. Hope Y aligns directly with Sophia Academy’s mission to engage girls from low-income families on a joyful quest for self‐discovery and opportunity through a middle school education grounded in social justice.

“Through this partnership, we aim to achieve three key goals: increasing access to aquatic programming, addressing the racial disparities in drowning rates within the Ocean State, and creating opportunities for young women of color to thrive and diversify the field of aquatics,” said Mike Rollins, Executive Director of the East Side/Mt.Hope YMCA. “My vision is to see more children of color participating in school swim teams, becoming swim instructors, and ultimately stepping into leadership roles as lifeguards. I’m especially excited about the prospect of seeing some of these participants work at the GPYMCA in the near future.”

“When I think of outstanding community partners, the East Side/Mt. Hope YMCA is at the top of my list. When I spoke to Meg about my vision for this program and how it aligns with Sophia Academy’s guiding principle of social justice she met my enthusiasm and Mike removed all barriers to help make it happen. Learning to swim is historically a social justice issue among black and brown communities, youth and adults alike. This partnership directly combats that injustice, “ said Michele Fontes, Dean of Students at Sophia Academy. “Their instructors have met our students where they are, creating a safe and supportive environment that removes fear and empowers them to develop essential swim skills. I look forward to continuing our partnership with the Y to help even more students gain these vital skills.”

58 students ages 9-14 received certificates after completing the first trimester. Y swim instructors will tailor what the second and third trimester will look like based on the skill and progress of the students.

This partnership demonstrates the Y’s ongoing commitment to addressing disparities in water safety education and expanding access to these vital skills in the community. The second cohort will kick off in January 2025.

The Y introduced the country to group swim lessons over 110 years ago in 1909. The Y’s Safety Around Water program, created in 2011, was specifically designed to help close the drowning disparities gap among youth. Now, as one of the largest community-based organizations in the country, they teach more than a million children, especially those most at risk of drowning, invaluable water safety and swimming skills each year.

ABOUT THE GPYMCA

GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, plus Providence Youth Services, and Camp Fuller. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.

The GPYMCA continues to gain philanthropic momentum, reaching Platinum Nonprofit status and $60,000 in grant awards

Providence, RI- The Greater Providence YMCA (GPYMCA) announced today that the organization has been awarded a total $60,000 in grant funds to support Out of School (OST) Programs and strategic planning initiatives, ensuring that the organization can continue to advance its mission of building a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all.

The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation awarded the GPYMCA $50,000 to provide snacks and meals across all OST programs, including Providence Youth Services. This funding will play a crucial role in promoting nutritional support and balanced meals fostering the overall well-being of over 700 children in the GPYMCA’s after-school programs.

Additionally, the Rhode Island Foundation has provided the GPYMCA with $10,000 to support strategic planning initiatives that will allow the organization to evaluate and improve its programming and facilities. The funding is specifically supporting the development of a comprehensive roadmap that strengthens the GPYMCA’s mission to promote youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility across Rhode Island by empowering the GPYMCA to expand its impact, enhance its facilities, and better serve individuals and families for years to come.

“We are thrilled to announce this significant awards, which represent a tremendous victory for the communities we serve at the Greater Providence Y,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of GPYMCA. “By enhancing our programming and facilities, and providing essential nutritional support for our youth, we are reinforcing our commitment to being a welcoming place where all members and families can thrive.” 

The GPYMCA also announced that the organization has earned a top-tier Platinum rating on Guidestar. This significant achievement reflects the GPYMCA’s commitment to philanthropic transparency, accountability, and the highest standards of nonprofit performance.

ABOUT THE GPYMCA

GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, plus Providence Youth Services, and Camp Fuller. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.

Providence, RI—The Greater Providence YMCA (GPYMCA) is excited to announce the addition of several distinguished professionals to its Board of Directors. Eight new members were appointed by the full board this week, in addition to three new members onboarded this spring.

“We are thrilled to welcome these accomplished leaders to our board,” said Karen Santilli, CEO of the Greater Providence YMCA. “Their collective expertise and passion for community service will help guide our organization as we continue to expand our programs and impact throughout Rhode Island. Each of these new members brings a unique perspective, and we look forward to working together to further the GPYMCA’s mission.”

Appointed Board Members: May 2024

Melanie Coon

With over 40 years of experience in corporate communications, Melanie Coon has a rich background in strategy, brand management, media relations, and executive communications. Most recently, she served as Managing Director of Corporate Communications at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, where she led multi-channel engagement efforts and strategic initiatives around culture change, diversity, and inclusion. She has also held leadership roles at the Rhode Island Foundation and Brown University, where she developed impactful communications strategies and led alumni engagement efforts.

Dan McGowan

Dan McGowan is a respected columnist for The Boston Globe, covering Rhode Island politics and education. He is also the author of Rhode Map, a daily newsletter that reaches over 125,000 subscribers. McGowan has earned national recognition, including being named by The Washington Post as one of the top political reporters to follow. Prior to joining The Boston Globe, McGowan worked at WPRI-TV in Providence, where he won awards for investigative reporting.

David M. Williams

David M. Williams is a distinguished public health and sociology professor at Brown University. His research focuses on understanding and addressing racial, socioeconomic, and social inequalities in health. Williams is widely recognized for his contributions to the field of public health, particularly in studying the impact of racism and other social determinants on health outcomes. He has authored numerous influential studies and serves as a thought leader in public health policy.

Appointed Board Members: September 2024

Secretary of State Gregg Amore

With over 30 years of public service, Secretary Gregg Amore has been a vocal advocate for education reform and voter access. Before being elected as Secretary of State, Amore served as a Rhode Island State Representative and was an accomplished high school history teacher and coach. His current role focuses on expanding voting access, maintaining the integrity of Rhode Island’s elections, and modernizing the state’s electoral infrastructure. He is also known for his dedication to strengthening civic education throughout the state.

Richard Blockson

Richard Blockson is a highly accomplished sales executive with leadership experience at Rhode Island Media Group and Bell Atlantic Yellow Pages. He has been recognized for driving significant revenue growth and is deeply committed to community service, with honors such as induction into the Boys and Girls Club Hall of Fame. In addition to his professional success, Blockson has long advocated for youth mentorship programs and continues volunteering his time to various community-based organizations.

Angelyne Cooper

Angelyne Cooper is the Executive Counsel at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, bringing over a decade of legal experience in labor law and workforce development. She has advised on significant workforce initiatives and previously served as Legal Counsel for Workforce Development and Associate Judge. Cooper is a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She earned her J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law and has been recognized for her contributions to workforce legal policy reform in Rhode Island.

Donna D’Aloia

Donna D’Aloia is a certified marriage and family therapist with many years of experience. She also provides interventional services for physicians and medical personnel who have had traumatic experiences. D’Aloia is the founding Board Chair of Resilient Kids, Now Center for Resilience as well as a Board member of the Tockwotton Home.

Kevin Gallagher

Kevin Gallagher, a former Senior Advisor to U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo, has focused on broadband expansion, workforce development, and economic growth strategies at the federal level. He has also held senior leadership roles in the office of Governor Raimondo, where he spearheaded major education and economic development initiatives, including Rhode Island’s first free college tuition program. Gallagher holds degrees from the College of the Holy Cross and Boston College Law School and is passionate about closing the digital divide and creating economic opportunities for underserved communities. 

John “Jack” McConnell

Judge John McConnell, the Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island, was appointed in 2011 and became Chief Judge in 2019. A native of Providence, he holds an A.B. from Brown University and a J.D. from Case Western Reserve University School of Law. Prior to his judicial appointment, McConnell had a distinguished career in private practice, where he was involved in several high-profile cases. His leadership on the bench has been marked by his commitment to ensuring access to justice for all Rhode Islanders.

Patrick McQuade

Patrick McQuade is a Private Wealth Advisor at Morgan Stanley, where he leads business development for a team managing over $3 billion in assets. In addition to his financial expertise, McQuade is deeply engaged in education, serving as President of the Board of Trustees at Providence Country Day School. He holds advanced degrees from Columbia University and Boston College, and his work has been recognized for fostering leadership and strategic planning in both the financial and educational sectors.

Joseph “Jay” Sabitoni

Joseph M. Sabitoni is the Administrator of the New England Laborers’ Training Academy. He has over 25 years of experience in workforce training, safety, and hazardous materials management. He has held various leadership roles at the academy, including Executive Director and Training Director, and holds a B.S. in Health Service Administration from Providence College. Sabitoni has also been recognized as the 2009 AGC of Connecticut Educator of the Year for his contributions to the field of education and labor training.

“These new board members bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse experiences that will significantly strengthen our ability to serve the community,” said Daniel DaPonte, Chair of the GPYMCA Board of Directors. “As we continue to evolve and meet the changing needs of Rhode Islanders, their leadership will be essential in driving the GPYMCA’s mission forward and ensuring that we remain a vital resource for health, wellness, and community development.”

The GPYMCA looks forward to the positive impact these leaders will bring to the organization, furthering its commitment to fostering stronger communities across Rhode Island.

About GPYMCA

GPYMCA includes six branch locations across Rhode Island and in Seekonk, Massachusetts, in addition to Providence Youth Services and Camp Fuller. The organization provides programs for Rhode Islanders and Massachusetts residents of all ages and supports equitable access to health, fitness, recreational, and other services. In addition, GPYMCA supports high-quality out-of-school time programs and other community-based approaches to delivering health and wellness opportunities, academic enrichment and achievement, and youth development skills.