What a privilege and honor it is to have Pat O’Brien as our Community Outreach Chairman this year. Pat has been the “go to” person in many areas for many service organizations in our community. His enthusiasm for giving back to his community and his success in getting things done is the reason he is on the top of everyone’s list
The Siskey Family YMCA is fortunate this year to have Pat, once again involved. During our Community Gifts portion of the campaign, Pat made sure to send out numerous email communications to our volunteer campaigners. He thanked them, motivated them and thanked them again. He personally came to the branch for the kick-off that morning and evening. He stopped to talk to staff, campaigners and kids. He asked if they knew where the money raised went in the community and how important the YMCAs role is in creating better lives for the children and families we serve.
Pat’s history with our YMCA goes back to 2002 when he chaired the Community Gifts portion of our campaign. He and his wife Celeste came to every phonathon and to reporting sessions to rally the troops. His three children, Tyler, Katie and Nicholas were also part of the team that year. He was instrumental in getting a $5000 matching grant from Rotary District 7680 through his club Mecklenburg South Rotary last year. Pat was the 2005 recipient of the George Williams Award for our branch and recognized for his service to the YMCA.
This year as Chairman he has been visible to staff and members alike. He played in our golf tournament this year, continues to write letters to our board, emails staff and volunteers regularly and is already gearing up for our auction in November.
Stay tuned for the rest of this year’s efforts to hit our overall goal of $425,000 because you will hear and see Pat O’Brien leading the charge!