YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg receives 2025 Excellence in Fundraising Award

YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg was awarded the 2025 Eagle Award for Excellence in Fundraising by the North American YMCA Development Organization (NAYDO), an association in partnership with YMCAs from Canada and the United States.

The award recognizes Michelle Curtis, CFRE, Vice President of Philanthropy & Chief Development Officer, David Jezek, President & Chief Executive Officer, and the entire YMCA team’s tireless efforts to inspire and strengthen a culture of philanthropy at the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg and in the community. The result has been long-lasting support and relationships with community residents including YMCA members, donors, partners and key public officials.

“The judges were impressed by the efforts of every volunteer and staff member,” said Zane Korytko, NAYDO Eagle Awards chair and Chief Executive Officer with the YMCA of Greater Moncton in New Brunswick, Canada. “Clearly, everyone is engaged as an advocate for the impact of the Y on local kids and families.

“The Y’s philanthropic efforts are well planned, organized and executed. It was clear to our judges that Y members and the community have a deep passion for the Y’s cause, and Y staff and volunteers are motivated to create positive outcomes for years to come.”

For more than 40 years, NAYDO has helped YMCA professionals and volunteers advance the YMCA’s Mission and increase its impact throughout North America and around the world. More than 445 YMCAs are members of NAYDO.

Because philanthropic support of the YMCA’s cause is central to the nonprofit’s success, NAYDO recognizes YMCAs for excellence in fundraising each year. The award honors exemplary YMCAs that have demonstrated success in all areas of philanthropy, including annual and capital campaigns and endowment growth.

“At the Y, we depend on the generosity of our neighbors to fuel our work,” said Korytko. ”Effective communication of the Y’s impact connects donors and volunteers to the positive change their gifts can make in their own communities. We’re thrilled to recognize Michelle and David, and the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg for their role in responding to community issues and transforming the lives of adults and children.”

The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg was recognized and honored at NAYDO’s annual conference April 30-May 3 in St. Louis, Mo.

“The work done and culture established by Michelle and David within the organization has resulted in tremendous impact on the Greater St. Petersburg community,” said Kim Jackson, Board Chair for YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg. “It is reflected in early childhood education offered at three preschool academies, the programs and services available to members and the community in the three wellness centers, community wellness programs that support people with cancer and Parkinson’s Disease, and more. The relationships they have built with stakeholders, both external and internal, are key to this success.”