Fremont/Hayward Volunteers Honored by YMCA of the East Bay

On Thursday, October 22, the YMCA of the East Bay held their 136th annual meeting and volunteer recognition ceremony. The theme of the evening was “Volunteers: Our Guiding Lights to Togetherhood.”

The “DIFFY” (You Are the Difference) Award is the highest honor the YMCA of the East Bay gives to recognize their most impactful volunteers. “DIFFY” award winners demonstrate a selfless commitment to serving our community and creating real, lasting, personal change.

The Y’s “Youth of Character” award recognizes some of their most outstanding youth leaders. These young agents of change stand out amongst their peers as positive, compassionate & dedicated community members.

DIFFY adult honorees & Youth of Character award recipients for the Hayward/Fremont region include:

Ashton Simmons (DIFFY Honoree)

Over the last year, Ashton Simmons has become a champion for youth in Hayward. Ashton spends countless hours each week passionately advocating for the Eden Area YMCA. His efforts to strategically leverage relationships in the business community have resulted in increased financial support for the Y as well as a heightened community awareness regarding YMCA youth programs. Ashton has also been instrumental in fostering several partnerships to help further our mission. Ashton is a relentless advocate. Because of his passion and dedication, the Eden Area YMCA continues to be a safe haven for youth in Hayward.

Donna Castaldo (DIFFY Honoree)

The Fremont Newark YMCA is a very special community. Over the past 6 years, Donna Castaldo has contributed hundreds of hours to help make this so. Donna is an ever present fixture at our YMCA. She volunteers her time organizing social events for our members. Donna has been instrumental in building a strong sense of community amongst the members of the Fremont Newark YMCA. She makes sure each member is celebrated with a special birthday breakfast and she goes above and beyond to lend a helping hand to other members of the Y who might be in need. Donna’s kind hearted and generous nature have made our YMCA a better place.

Sarah Chavez (Youth of Character)

Sarah Chavez demonstrates character counts through her hard work and dedication in the Eden Area YMCA’s Youth and Government program. Once a shy student, Sarah has shown tremendous personal growth over the last year due to her commitment, drive and willingness to try new things. Sarah now holds the office of Secretary in her delegation and was received the award for “Most Inspirational- a freshman leading by example”. Valued and respected by both her peers and the YMCA community at large, Sarah has shown tremendous leadership in fundraising, volunteerism and youth activism. We are so proud to honor Sarah as the Eden Area YMCA’s Youth of Character!

Rialyn Cortez (Youth of Character)

Rialyn Cortez is an active member of the Fremont Newark YMCA. She spends much of her time serving as an officer of our Youth and Government program- acting as a role model and leader to her peers. Rialyn is also active in dance and in martial arts. This summer, she volunteered as a leader for two weeks at our Martial Arts Camp to share her skill and talent with younger members of our community. Rialyn also actively promotes the YMCA youth programs at her school and out in the community. Her positive attitude and giving nature exemplify the spirit of volunteerism. Thank you, Rialyn, for being such an important part of the Fremont Newark YMCA!