Third Thursday May 2025
Building a Legacy That Endures
What we leave behind isn’t measured in titles or possessions—it’s found in the people we’ve helped, the values we’ve lived by, and the community we’ve built along the way.
At the YMCA, we believe we all share a responsibility to look beyond ourselves. To help others. To make things better for the next generation. That’s where real meaning comes from—and it’s how we build a legacy that endures.
Few people have lived that truth more fully than my friend and longtime YMCA supporter, Bill Lawrence.
Bill’s commitment to this community spans decades. He helped launch Teen Nite in downtown Albany, a program that’s been supporting and empowering teens for more than 20 years. He played a leading role in establishing the North Albany YMCA—a place that carried his name and served countless families over the years.
Even after that branch closed, Bill’s influence didn’t fade. It’s still part of who we are.
That’s why we’re proud to share that we will be dedicating the Bethlehem Area YMCA as the William H. Lawrence Family YMCA. This is a meaningful way to honor Bill’s lasting contributions and to recognize a legacy built on service, generosity, and belief in others.
Save the Date:
William H. Lawrence Family YMCA Dedication Ceremony
Friday, June 13, 2025
9:00 AM
Bethlehem Area YMCA
RSVP: sheslin@cdymca.org
We hope you’ll join us to honor Bill and celebrate what’s possible when one person chooses to make a difference.
Governor Kathy Hochul visited a Capital Region BOCES location on April 29 to tour a unique preschool classroom operated by the Capital District YMCA — a program that not only serves young children but also functions as a hands-on training environment for aspiring early childhood educators.
The visit marked a meaningful moment for YMCA and BOCES staff, students, and families, as well as for the future educators gaining valuable experience in the classroom.
“We are so thankful to Governor Hochul for taking the time to visit and see firsthand the impact of this innovative partnership,” said David Brown, President and CEO of the Capital District YMCA. “It was a highlight for our team — and for the children — to share the work we’re doing together with BOCES to support both early learners and future teachers.”
This collaborative program blends direct service for children with real-world learning opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in early childhood education. By operating the preschool classroom within a BOCES facility, the YMCA and BOCES are combining strengths to benefit families and build a stronger local workforce.
“The opportunity to train future educators in a live classroom setting is incredibly powerful,” Brown said. “It’s rewarding to know that the work we’re doing is not only helping children grow and thrive today, but also shaping the next generation of teachers.”
Brown also expressed appreciation for the Governor’s commitment to youth development and education.
“Governor Hochul’s continued support for young people and those who care for them gives us great hope for the future,” he added. “Her visit affirms the value of community-based partnerships like ours.”
The Governor’s tour underscored the importance of creative, collaborative approaches to education and workforce development — especially in early childhood, where the foundation for lifelong learning begins.