L-R: Darryl McKenzie, president and CEO, YMCA of Oakville, Michelle Ng, YMCA swim instructor and Peter Gilgan, founder and CEO of Mattamy Homes
Swim instructor inspired new YMCA award
Oakville Beaver, April 29, 2011
Gilgan launches YMCA student bursary
Oakville Today, April 21, 2011
OAKVILLE, April 20, 2011 – Inspired by a young swim instructor at the YMCA, Peter Gilgan, founder and CEO of Mattamy Homes, announced a new staff bursary program at the YMCA’s recent staff and volunteer recognition event.
As someone who believes in challenging himself to explore new opportunities, Peter came to the YMCA to take swim lessons. It was there that he met 22-year-old Michelle Ng, his swim instructor and a highly-dedicated community volunteer and student.
“I was so impressed with Michelle’s encouragement and passion for success that I wanted to honour that spirit and help support promising young leaders like her in our community,” said Peter Gilgan.
Funded through the generosity of the Peter Gilgan Charitable Foundation, the award will be presented to YMCA of Oakville youth employees who have made notable contributions to the YMCA and the Oakville community. The Peter Gilgan Leadership Award consists of four awards of up to $2,500 that will be given annually to selected employees to assist them with their post-secondary education costs.
“We are extremely grateful to Peter for creating this bursary program and providing an incredible opportunity for our young staff,” said Darryl McKenzie, president and CEO of the YMCA of Oakville.
“His outstanding contributions as volunteer, community leader and philanthropist have played an integral role in helping the YMCA of Oakville build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.”
Many young people find valuable volunteer experiences and their first employment at the YMCA. As an employer, the YMCA of Oakville is committed to training and developing young people to become the next generation of community leaders.