Problem-solvers, innovators, collaborators, activists, volunteers... what do they all have in common? They embody positive impact and change. They are rooted in communities and push forward to ensure that we all not only survive but thrive. 

This year, the YMCA brings you Celebrating Community Changemakers, where we gather to recognize the people who convene the conversations and champion the change needed to create communities we all want to live in.

A.K. Guy Award - Presented to Sheri Schultz and the Schultz Family Foundation, who are committed to creating greater opportunity, accessible to all. Recognizing that talent is everywhere - but opportunity is not - Sheri and her foundation seek to unlock untapped potential for young adults. They invest in innovative solutions tackling important challenges facing our community, including youth homelessness, youth mental health, workforce development, entrepreneurship, and so much more.

Judge Charles V. and Lazelle Johnson Excellence in Social Justice Award – Presented to Eric Pettigrew, whose career in public service spans over two decades, including serving in the Washington State Legislature, where he focused on affordable housing, retirement programs, and racial disparity in child welfare. Eric secured key funding to support foster care programs, expand higher education opportunities for incarcerated individuals, and promote charter schools in his district.