Chad A. Smith of Atlanta will receive the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s 2014 Volunteer of the Year award for his service at the Arthur M. Blank Family Youth YMCA. He will be honored at the annual volunteer recognition dinner Monday, November 10, 2014.
A graduate of Jackson State University class of 1997, Smith is a commercial pilot and FAA-certified flight instructor. He has volunteered at the Y for the past two years. He assists in his son’s classroom and leads cheerleading practices for his daughters’ classes.
“My volunteer experience at the Y is a great opportunity to interact with my children and their environments,” said Smith. “I am there to educate my children and other children who may need help and guidance.”
Along with his commitment to the YMCA, Smith is an active member and volunteer at Sheltering Arms Early Childhood Education & Family Center and the Kindezi School.
“Mr. Smith goes above and beyond with his volunteerism,” said Rc Pruitt, group vice president with the YMCA of Metro Atlanta. “He is the room parent, but he engages with other classroom parents because he wants to build a stronger Parent Advisory Council. He comes with ideas and is passionate about getting other parents involved.”
The Y is a powerful association of men, women and children joined together by a shared commitment to nurturing the potential of kids, promoting healthy living and fostering a sense of social responsibility. Every day, we work side-by-side with our neighbors to make sure everyone, regardless of age, income or background, has the opportunity to learn, grow and connect.