MARILYN MARKER WHITMER NAMED 2014 VOLUNTEER OF YEAR

ATLANTA (Oct. 23, 2014) — Marilyn Marker Whitmer of Norcross will receive the YMCA of Metro Atlanta’s 2014 Volunteer of the Year award for her service at the Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA in Peachtree Corners. She will be honored at the annual volunteer recognition dinner Monday, November 10, 2014.

Whitmer is a seven-year swim team volunteer. When she began getting involved with the Y swim team nine years ago, the team had 40 swimmers throughout the year. Now it has 160 swimmers. Many are developing as swimmers with financial assistance from the WHY IT MATTERS annual giving campaign.

The YMCA WHY IT MATTERS annual giving campaign raises money to assist children who come to the Y needing financial assistance to be involved in programs. The Y relies on the generosity of donors to help provide access and opportunities for children, families and adults in the community.

“The Y truly grows memories for families,” said Whitmer. “Swimming is an integral part of a child’s life. When adults think back, many times they say they swam at the Y as a kid, and those were the most wonderful days of their childhoods.”

Whitmer is a technology teacher at Peachtree Elementary School and a tireless volunteer throughout Gwinnett County.

“I truly enjoy making a difference in children’s lives,” said Whitmer. “I love seeing kids grow in their swimming abilities while building their self-confidence and friendships.”

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. Call 770-246-9622 or visit http://www.ymcaatlanta.org.

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CONTACT:

Mark Thornell, 770-557-4535, markt@ymcaatlanta.org

Kristen Obaranec, 404-593-7920, kristeno@ymcaatlanta.org