U.S. Senator Susan Collins has received the inaugural Impact Award from the YMCA of the USA, marking the first time this recognition has been given. The award highlights her long-standing support for the YMCA’s mission in Maine and nationwide.
Bangor YMCA CEO Diane Dickerson introduced Senator Collins at the ceremony, which was attended by leaders from various communities. The Impact Award is intended to honor public servants whose leadership and advocacy have played a significant role in advancing youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility through the YMCA.
“I am deeply honored to receive the YMCA of the USA’s inaugural Impact Award,” said Senator Collins. “For generations, YMCAs have served as pillars of their communities by promoting healthy lifestyles, supporting working families, and giving young people a safe place to learn and grow. That is why I am proud to support the Y’s mission and will continue working as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee to help better ensure that more families in Maine and across the country have access to the affordable child care, wellness programs, and other community resources that local YMCAs make possible.”
Suzanne McCormick, President and CEO of YMCA of the USA, commented on Senator Collins’ contributions: “For more than two decades, Senator Collins has been a true partner to the Y and the communities we serve, in Maine and across the country. Because of her leadership, more families have access to high-quality child care, more communities can invest in health and wellness, and more YMCAs have the resources they need to meet local needs. We are proud to recognize Senator Collins as the inaugural recipient of the YMCA Impact Award.”
Senator Collins serves as Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee. Since 2022, she has secured nearly $12 million through Congressionally Directed Spending aimed at expanding child care availability and early childhood education capacity at several Maine locations including Bangor, Auburn-Lewiston, Mount Desert Island, Boothbay, Damariscotta, Rumford, and Old Town. These funds also support new community health facilities for local YMCAs.
