AYCC to Host BELONG BELIEVE ACHIEVE Annual Appeal Awards Dinner
- June 11, 2025
- Latest News · News
Waterville, ME – Save the Date: June 11, 2025 — The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is proud to announce its upcoming Annual Appeal Awards Dinner set to take place on June 11, 2025. This highly anticipated community event will bring together local leaders, supporters, and youth advocates for a memorable evening dedicated to celebrating the transformative work of the AYCC and inspiring continued community investment.
The evening will kick off at 5:00 pm with a reception featuring cocktails, dinner, and a multimedia slideshow honoring the children, honorees, staff, and volunteers of the center. As the night progresses, guests will be guided to their seats by a traditional bagpiper, setting the stage for an inspiring program full of recognition, storytelling, and community spirit.
Highlights include the presentation of the 2025 Youth of the Year award, recognition of local champions with the Inspirational Hall of Fame Awards, and a heartfelt keynote from Yolanda Londoño, President & CEO of World Youth Clubs, whose work in community development and youth empowerment has garnered international acclaim.
A poignant moment in the evening will be honoring the legacy of Ken Walsh, who has served as CEO of the AYCC for over 34 years. Under Ken’s visionary leadership, the center transformed into a nationally recognized model for youth development, raising millions of dollars and expanding programs and facilities that have impacted generations of youth. Ken’s dedication, innovation, and passion have left an indelible mark on the community, and his retirement this year marks the end of an era. The evening will include a tribute to Ken’s remarkable career and his enduring legacy in advancing youth opportunities in Maine.
Throughout the event, guests will learn about the critical impact of AYCC programs that serve a community where 50% of families live below the poverty line, and 80% of children face food insecurity. The event will feature a powerful impact video highlighting the center’s vital work and a heartfelt call to action to support the future of local youth.
Leadership donors will be formally recognized, and attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an inspiring fundraising effort. With a goal to raise $350,000, every contribution — from small pledges to major gifts — will directly support the AYCC’s mission to help more youth Belong, Believe, and Achieve.
And thanks to the generosity of the Harold Alfond Foundation®, all gifts made during the 100 days between June 11 and September 19, 2025, will be matched dollar-for-dollar! This incredible opportunity means every donation will have twice the impact in helping AYCC expand its life-changing programs and services.
Community members are encouraged to become part of the movement by filling out pledge cards during the event, with artwork by local youth illustrating different support levels. Donations will enable AYCC to expand its programs and reach even more children in need.
Learn More at: https://www.clubaycc.org/100-days-of-giving/
For media inquiries, interview requests, or additional information, please contact:
Katherine Harvey
Senior Director of Philanthropy & Government Relations
207-872-8842
About the Alfond Youth & Community Center
The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that operates the nation’s only merged Boys and Girls Clubs and YMCA. Located in Central Maine, the dedicated staff of the 85,000-square-foot facility serves over 9,000 members from throughout the 50 communities of the Greater Waterville area.
A true youth and community center, the AYCC boasts childcare and afterschool programs, wellness, fitness, athletics, aquatics, martial arts, and summer camps.
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