Honoring the True Heart and
Spirit of Our Community

Spring always brings a sense of renewal, and it means it's almost time for one of my favorite Y events: our annual Y Heroes Celebration.

On Tuesday, May 13, we’ll gather to honor eight extraordinary individuals and organizations whose work has strengthened both the Greater Providence YMCA and the communities we serve. This year’s Y Heroes are David Cicilline, Mike Montecalvo, Captain Justin Dutra, Rylee Kelly, Steve and Donna Yan, and the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation, represented by Victor Carvalho and Carlos Andrade.

Each of these honorees has gone above and beyond to serve others and support the Y’s mission. They’ve helped create safer spaces for youth, ensured access to food and wellness, nurtured partnerships, and modeled the kind of leadership that transforms lives quietly and consistently. Their contributions often happen behind the scenes—but they are the reason so many of our programs are able to thrive.

At the Y, we believe it’s important to pause and celebrate that kind of impact. The Y Heroes Celebration isn’t just about recognition—it’s a reflection of what we value most: people helping people, community showing up for community, and the shared belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and belong.

If you’d like to join us in honoring this year’s heroes, I invite you to purchase a ticket, become a sponsor, or make a gift in their honor.

We’d love to see you there.

Karen A. Santilli

President & CEO,
Greater Providence YMCA