Keith works with YMCAs across the country to help them incorporate the program into their work in the community as well as with investors to help change lives.
I am passionate about Bold & Gold because it works.
Young people are enriched in significant, deeply rooted ways.
Lives often take on an entirely new direction, just as they did with my 13 year old grandson who was headed down an unhealthy path and literally made a 180 degree turn after his 1st Bold and Gold experience. Youth feel respected and learn to respect differences.
Respect is one of the core YMCA values and I have dedicated my life to promoting those values in young people. One way or another I have been a part of the Y ever since I learned to swim at the YMCA in 6th grade – followed right after by being the President of my grade school’s Y Club. I have been a camp counselor, camp director, program director, COO, CEO, and National Y Team member. While I have had other short term experiences with different youth serving organizations, I have spent my entire career with the YMCA. It is the place where I learned to accept all others, practice serving others, and value my faith.
My father was my spiritual inspiration and my introduction to the outdoors. We would go fishing and I learned how to cast, spin and fly fish while standing by his side. Hiking up a mountainside to find secret trout pools was one of my favorite childhood activities. Later, I took my sons in search of the perfect fishing hole and continue the family tradition with their children.
I graduated from Kent State University with degrees in Sociology and Psychology. I completed my master’s degree in human development at Bowling Green State University. Two of my favorite activities are jumping out of airplanes and racing motorcycles. I live in Nashville, Tennessee with the love of my life, Victoria. Together we raised three amazing sons and now I love being involved in the successes, failures, and life journeys of my six grandchildren (3 girls and 3 boys). Our Shetland Sheepdog “Duncan” is my constant companion and loves the outdoors even more than I do.
