PIKE COUNTY, Mo. — The Twin Pike Family YMCA has named Shawn Geralds as the organization’s permanent Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Geralds has been serving as the interim CEO since November of last year. He was hired in November 2019 as program director. Prior to joining the Twin Pike Family YMCA, Geralds worked at the Hannibal facility in a number of positions including personal training, wellness and fitness as well as a swimming director. He graduated from Hannibal-LaGrange University in 2018 with a degree in exercise science. Geralds said he’s eager for the opportunity to expand the goals and values of the Y.

“I’m looking forward to getting started. We have a lot of goals and want to branch out to serve the entire Twin Pike region,” Geralds explained.

He added that goals for the future are shared by the board and staff.

“We want to structure all our goals behind the mission of the YMCA. We are Christian-based and want to funnel all decisions through that lens,” Geralds remarked. “The mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body.”

Twin Pike Family YMCA Board President Patti Blackmore said Geralds was identified as a strong candidate due to his heavy involvement with the community including civic organizations and local youth programs. He also has demonstrated that the YMCA is a long-term career path.

“In past years we’ve gone outside the community to interview for the CEO position, but when this CEO position came available we looked within the organization to see if we had anybody that was a great fit for us,” Blakmore explained. “We focused on Shawn because of his leadership abilities, and not just that, but his values.”

She pointed out the Y is more than just a gym or just a not-for-profit business, it’s Christian-based.

“Shawn fit the type of person we were looking for. He has a strong commitment to our community.”

The Twin Pike Family YMCA has also named a new program director. Clopton graduate James David will assume the position on August 1. Blackmore applauded his background in sports, fitness and wellness.

The Y will be looking to expand programs and services moving forward. Geralds encourages the local residents to reach out with any suggestions or feedback.

The YMCA is located at 614 Kelly Lane in Louisiana and welcomes residents in the Twin Pike Counties. Contact the Y at 573-754-4497.