News Summary
Sam Franklin has officially stepped into his role as the President and CEO of the YMCA of Greenville, bringing over 33 years of experience within the organization. His promotion comes at a challenging time, just days before Hurricane Helene impacted the area. Franklin aims to lead recovery efforts and expand YMCA services in underserved communities. The YMCA of Greenville serves over 80,000 individuals annually and is committed to raising $1.6 million for its 2025 Annual Campaign to support its diverse programs.
Sam Franklin Takes Charge as New President and CEO of YMCA of Greenville
Greenville is buzzing with excitement as Sam Franklin steps into the role of President and CEO of the YMCA of Greenville. With a rich history spanning 33 years at the YMCA, Franklin believes this organization holds a special memory for everyone, whether it’s the joy of swimming, the thrill of camping, or the camaraderie found in sports.
A Journey to Leadership
Franklin’s journey began at the front desk of the YMCA after interning in the marketing department while attending Middle Tennessee State University. His career path led him through various positions at YMCAs in Kentucky and North Carolina before he found his way to the YMCA of Greenville in 2017. Now, as he takes on this new challenge, Franklin is motivated by a simple yet noble goal: to ensure that every person has the chance to experience all that the YMCA has to offer.
Adjusting to Challenges
The timing of his promotion couldn’t have been more dramatic. Franklin officially began his new role just four days before Hurricane Helene unleashed its fury on the Carolinas. The storm severely impacted YMCA Camp Greenville and the beloved Fred W. Symmes Chapel, affectionately known as Pretty Place.
Franklin expressed admiration for the YMCA’s dedicated staff who responded swiftly to the hurricane’s aftermath. Their readiness to help each other and the community during such a crisis is commendable. As many in Greenville know, the YMCA of Greenville is the largest in South Carolina, proudly serving over 80,000 people every year through its 11 sites.
Recovery and Restoration Efforts
Following the destruction, Pretty Place has made a comeback. It reopened on January 3 after approximately $550,000 in repairs were completed. This stunning venue, renowned for hosting about 550 weddings annually, is a cherished part of the community. Luckily, the comprehensive upgrades made prior to the hurricane’s arrival preserved the structural integrity, although the roof and seating areas did suffer damage.
Meanwhile, Camp Greenville faces an uphill battle. The property, which spans 1,400 acres in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains, will require around $750,000 for clearing and repairs after an estimated 1,100 trees were downed by the storm. While some costs will be mitigated by insurance, the Y encourages contributions through the Camp Greenville website to aid in recovery efforts.
Commitment to the Community
As the YMCA moves forward, the goal is ambitious yet inspiring: to raise $1.6 million in its upcoming 2025 Annual Campaign. Over the past 15 years, the organization has successfully gathered over $14 million through annual campaigns, all dedicated to supporting various Y programs. This includes offering financial assistance for wellness initiatives, after-school care arrangements, and support for those facing food insecurity. Franklin firmly believes in the YMCA’s steadfast promise: to never turn anyone away, regardless of their ability to pay.
Looking Ahead
In addition to recovery efforts, Franklin has exciting plans for the future. His vision is to expand YMCA services into underserved communities, reflecting a forward-thinking approach that emphasizes inclusivity and accessibility. He hopes that as they continue to rebuild, Pretty Place will stand as a beacon of hope for all who visit, showcasing the strength and resilience of both the YMCA and the greater Greenville community.
As Sam Franklin settles into his new role, the community eagerly watches the revitalizing journey of the YMCA of Greenville unfold, and the enduring memories created along the way. With a heartfelt commitment to service, Franklin is sure to leave a lasting impact in this beloved institution.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Passion Drives New CEO to Share Mission
- Greenville Journal: Meet Sam Franklin, New CEO of YMCA
- Independent Mail: Pretty Place Reopens After Hurricane
- Fox News: Interview with Sam Franklin
- Upstate Business Journal: Sam Franklin on the Move
- Wikipedia: YMCA
- Google Search: YMCA of Greenville
- Google Scholar: YMCA of Greenville
- Encyclopedia Britannica: YMCA
- Google News: YMCA Recovery
