Every year the South Montgomery County YMCA recognizes an outstanding volunteer for his/her generosity of spirit, hard work and compassion for others. We are pleased to announce that Wendy Baldwin has been named this year’s Volunteer of the Year!

Baldwin was presented with her award at the YMCA of Greater Houston’s Annual Celebration earlier this year at Rice University’s Faculty Club.  She joined 36 others, each representing an individual YMCA center, camp or special program. Baldwin and the others were greeted with a standing ovation by the audience after being awarded a solid bronze sculpture custom-made by Katy, Texas artist David Mattiza.

Ms. Baldwin is a Social Studies teacher at Oak Ridge High School and has been a volunteer teen advisor with the YMCA Youth & Government program for 10 years. Through her commitment, dedication and leadership, many students have had the opportunity to participate in the Youth & Government program and experience how the government works at the local and state level. Our local YMCA Teens always perform very well at the district and state competition and come back with many awards and many are elected as officers.  Teens learn and develop leadership skills, experience new opportunities, meet new people and expand their horizons. Through her guidance the program has grown and many graduating seniors come back year after year stating the YMCA Youth & Government program was one of their fondest memories of high school. The program has developed some outstanding teen leaders from this community.  

Volunteers help the staff create moments of accomplishment, moments of joy, and moments of learning for children and families. “We are fortunate to have the support of our volunteers.  They each contribute to the growth of our organization and add to the YMCA experience” said YMCA President and CEO Clark Baker.  “They help us help others.”  

On a daily basis, the YMCA of Greater Houston depends on its volunteers to help carry out its mission.  By donating their time, talent and treasure, they help create magic moments daily for individuals, children and families.  Volunteers also instill the YMCA core values of responsibility, respect, caring, honesty, and faith in everyone they touch.  Volunteers help the YMCA build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.