Sara Goddard

After a pandemic and flood-related hiatus of three years, the Rye YMCA is bringing back its annual gala to benefit the organization’s Y Cares Financial Assistance Program. On Friday June 3, from 8-11 p.m., guests will enjoy drinks, dessert, and live music by the Ray Greiche Band under the stars at the Rye Y. The organization will also bring back its Gold Spirit and Community Service Awards, honoring those who have given their time and talents to the Y and other nonprofit organizations.

“We’re so excited to bring our Y community together again,” said Staci Ramachandran, co-chair of the Better Together benefit committee. Fellow co-chair Rachel Breinin added, “What better way to spend a spring evening than celebrating the spirit and resilience of the Rye Y, the people it serves, and the people who serve others.”

Sue Kelly, current director of admissions at Christ’s Church Nursery School, and Doug Donohue, a former treasurer and president of the Rye Y board of directors who now serves as a guide for blind runners through Achilles International, will be recognized with the Gold Spirit Award, the Y’s highest award for its volunteers. Former City Councilwoman Sara Goddard, author of Rye’s Sustainability Plan and current co-chair of Sustainable Westchester, will be honored with the Y’s Community Service Award.

The community is invited to join the Y in honoring and celebrating these three remarkable individuals. All proceeds from the event will go to support the Y Cares Financial Assistance Program, which ensures that everyone is able to experience all the Y has to offer, regardless of their ability to pay.

For ticket information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Laura Kelleher at laurakelleher@ryeymca.org or 914-967-6363, ext. 210.