Twin Pike Family YMCA Chief Executive Officer, Marsha Garrison announced her decision to conclude her nearly 20-year tenure effective this month. Under Garrison's leadership, the Twin Pike Family YMCA grew from a $145,000 operation to an organization with a $1.3 million annual budget and is currently one of the largest nonprofit providers of youth, family and wellness programs and opportunities in our two-county region.

"I am very proud and so thanl<ful to have been part of the development and growth of the YMCA since I began as a volunteer in 1999 and as CEO in 2001," Garrison said. "For nearly 20 years, I've been honored to build relationships with so many talented and committed volunteers, staff, donors and community partners, who have guided and encouraged me and helped to develop this wonderful organization. More importantly, they've strengthened the very foundation of the communities in this area by supporting the growth of Y programs and services in the Twin Pike communities."

Since 2001, the Y has gone through three building and facility expansion projects, with the most recent being completed in 2015, resulting in the addition of the area's first indoor aquatics center. "In addition to our facility expansions, Marsha led our efforts to secure a 21" Century Community Learning Centers grant, and other YUSA funding to expand youth programing throughout our area", stated Board Chair Mary Perkins. The Ys partnership with Pike County School Districts provides before, after and summer school programs focusing on educational enrichment and strengthening social/emotional development of children in the program.  In addition, the Ys Reach and Rise program is one of the areas first mentoring programs for teens. Perkins adds that "Marsha's hard work and commitment to the Y will be greatly missed."

The Hannibal YMCA will provide interim management services to ensure consistency and quality services through the transition.  Eric Abts, CEO, Hannibal YMCA will provide oversight while Kara Viorel will provide  daily operational leadership. "This is a busy time of the year", states Abts, "Our priority will be to deliver seamless continuity of services for Twin Pike Y members, partners and communities." "The Twin Pike Family YMCA has a strong history of service to our communities and we intend to continue that tradition", states Board Chair Perkins.

About the Twin Pike Family YMCA

The Y was founded in the Twin Pike counties by volunteers in 1993 who recognized a need for youth and

family social and recreational programs in the isolated community. Its mission is to focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, and to ensure access to all with financial assistance. In 2017, the Y served 6,400 individuals, of which nearly 2,500 were youth and teens.·