Each year, the YMCA of Kanawha Valley recognizes someone who exemplifies community service with the Spirit of the Valley Award.
The award is about giving back, helping others and working for a brighter tomorrow.
That’s why this year’s Spirit of the Valley goes to … You.
The front-line doctors and nurses who have cared for the sick during the COVID-19 crisis. The folks who’ve made deliveries every single day. The employees who have kept store shelves stocked. The leaders who have updated us with guidelines and plans. The business owners who have sacrificed. Those who stayed home for the good of us all.
Meet the Honorees
Dr. Mary Ann Maurer
Mandi Workman
5th Grade Teacher
Bridgeview Elementary
Melissa McGlothen
3rd Grade E-Learning Teacher Overbrook Elementary
Scott Harper
Charleston Fire Department
Shift Captain
Engine 458
Tiffani Huffman
WV State Senior Trooper
Valery Harper
Executive Director
Kanawha County Schools
Virtual Program
Previous Spirit of the Valley Honorees
1985 - John M. Wells Sr.
1986 - Sidney P. Davis Jr.
1987 - Bert Bradford Jr., M.D.
1988 - Lawson W. Hamilton Jr.
1989 - James M. Poindexter
1990 - Isaac N. Smith Jr.
1991 - James R. Thomas II
1992 - Warren Point, M.D.
1993 - Lyell B. Clay
1994 - Martha G. Wehrle
1995 - William T. Brotherton Jr.
1996 - Angus E. Peyton
1997 - Thomas E. Potter
1998 - John L. McClaugherty
1999 - Bertie Cohen
2000 - Thad D. Epps
2001 - Joseph C. Jefferds Jr.
2002 - Lewis N. McManus
2003 - John F. McGee
2004 - Betty Schoenbaum
2005 - John Wells Jr.
2006 - Edward H. Maier
2007 - Dr. Ed Welch
2008 - J. Holmes Morrison
2009 - Charles T. Jones
2010 - Brooks F. McCabe Jr.
2011 - Nelle Ratrie Chilton
2012 - T. Randolph Cox
2013 - K. Richard C. Sinclair
2014 - W. Gaston Caperton III
2015 - John Elliot
2016 - Mary Jean Davis
2017- Tom Heywood
2018- Dan Foster, M.D.
2019- Marty Becker
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About Us
The YMCA has worked with communities for decades to face a myriad of challenges, and the pandemic has been one of the most immense. But our spirit remains bright. Our dreams remain vivid. We strive to make sure no communities are forgotten.
Mentorship. Safe spaces. Opportunity. Those ideals are at the core of our mission. And although we’ve had to innovate and rethink how we reach out communities, we are still making a genuine impact every single day.
When you give to the YMCA, you make it possible for all children and families to have access to excellent facilities and programming vital to personal growth.
From the West Side, to the East End, to Cross Lanes, and beyond – we’re endeavoring for a better “Us,” and you can be a part of it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a “Virtual” event mean:
Instead of an in person luncheon this year we will be utilizing this website to host our Spirit of the Valley luncheon. On Thursday, November 5th at noon you will have the opportunity to view our Spirit of the Valley programming from the comfort and safety of your own home or workplace right here on this website.
Where does my dollar go:
The YMCA is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and your support helps ensure that all those living in the Kanawha Valley have access to our facilities and programming vital to personal development.
Can I mail in my donation or pledge:
Yes, all pledges can be emailed to pledge@ymcaofkv.org and donations may be made online with a credit card or by check via mail to:
YMCA of Kanawha Valley
c/o: Spirit of the Valley
100 YMCA Drive
Charleston, WV 25311