Matt Howard is an example of what it means to serve and lead in community. The 30-year resident of Warrensville Heights serves as City Councilman for Ward 5. The Warrensville Heights Family YMCA is proud to have him as a member of the branch’s advisory council and as a donor.
Matt grew up utilizing the local recreation center before the YMCA was built. He always had an interest in giving back. His family joined the Warrensville Y about 10 years ago and they always enjoyed participating in activities and engaging with other members. He recognized soon after joining how much the Y was impacting the community.
One day while at the Warrensville YMCA, he was approached by the Executive Director, Michael Carter about joining the Advisory Board. He immediately agreed to join to continue his journey as a Y and community advocate.
Since then, Matt has participated in dozens of volunteer project and interacted and advocated for the Y. Matt is shown in this photo distributing school supplies to school aged students in Warrenville Heights. Over 100 families benefited from this drive.
When asked why he got involved, Matt says “This is a way to show others you care, put others before yourself, and help the community be more successful”.
When asked about the most fulfilling part of his volunteer service to the Y, he says it’s his fellow advisory board volunteers. The group meets monthly to discuss issues important to the Warrensville branch and the community and how they can collectively make a difference. They always start the meeting with a prayer and frequently invite guest speakers who conduct leadership development talks. Matt says it is one of the greatest groups of people he has ever worked with and is a powerful experience at each meeting. “Everyone is so positive, goal driven, and caring about the community.”
The YMCA of Greater Cleveland is grateful for Matt’s support and generosity. It you’d like more information on donating your time, talent, and treasure to the Y, please contact your local branch. You can find contact information on our website’s Location page.