Across North Texas, the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth plays a steady and essential role in strengthening communities. It is where children learn to swim, helping reduce the risk of drowning and break generational fears of water. It is where seniors find connection, teens discover purpose and working families access affordable, reliable child care close to home. For more than a century, the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth has been a trusted presence, ensuring people are supported at every stage of life.
That work will be highlighted at the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth’s 136th Annual Community Celebration Luncheon, on May 13, 2026, held at TCU’s Union Ballroom. This signature event brings together business leaders, volunteers and community partners to recognize impact and invest in the future of North Texas.
This year’s theme, “Faces of the Y,” reflects both the more than 220,000 people the YMCA serves each year and the individuals whose generosity makes that service possible. Nearly 30 percent of those served are able to participate in YMCA programs through scholarships funded by donors, sponsors and volunteers who believe access should not be limited by income.
“The YMCA is not defined by buildings or programs alone. It is defined by people,” said Eddie Dobbins, Chief Operating Officer and interim CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth. “Every face represents a story of growth, support and belonging. This luncheon is an opportunity for our community to come together and ensure those stories continue.”
The Annual Community Celebration Luncheon is a cornerstone event for the organization. The program includes presentation of the Volunteer of the Year awards, the Chi Rho Award, the Community Champion Award and the Community Partner Award. These honors recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership, service and commitment have made a lasting impact across the association.
Ellen Buck, board chair of the YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth and Chief Operating Officer at Oncor Electric Delivery, the presenting sponsor, said the event underscores the shared responsibility of strengthening communities.
“Where there is a Y, there is a community safety net,” Buck said. “The YMCA meets real needs every day, from child care and food access to health, connection and opportunity. Oncor is proud to support an organization that consistently shows up for families, seniors and youth across North Texas.”
Throughout the region, YMCA centers serve as accessible gathering places for people of all ages. Programs include affordable child care, afterschool and summer enrichment, mobile food pantries, financial literacy education, career training and workforce development initiatives. Because Ys are embedded in the communities they serve, barriers such as transportation and access are reduced, allowing services to reach those who need them most.
Water safety remains a critical focus of the YMCA’s work. Through swim lessons and drowning prevention programs, the organization is helping families gain confidence and build lifelong skills that protect children and adults alike.
This year’s luncheon will also feature guest speakers from the Dallas Mavericks and highlight innovative partnerships that expand career development and workforce readiness opportunities for youth and adults across the region.
Community members are encouraged to participate by purchasing individual tickets, sponsoring a table or investing as an event sponsor. All funds raised through the luncheon directly support YMCA programs and scholarships, ensuring access to services that strengthen individuals, families and communities.
“When you support the YMCA, you are investing in people and in the long-term strength of North Texas,” Dobbins said. “This luncheon is one way our community can come together to make that impact possible.”
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available now for those who want to support the YMCA’s mission and be part of an event that celebrates service, leadership and community impact.
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/everydaygiving/event/2026luncheon
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