The YMCA of Greater Houston’s 38th Annual Prayer Breakfast was held on Thursday, May 2 as part of National Day of Prayer, an annual observance inviting people to pray for our nation and for our communities. YMCA members, volunteers and community partners joined together for a day of prayer, inspiration and fellowship with one another.
The YMCA also had the opportunity to recognize volunteers and community partners who have given of their time, talent and treasure in service to the YMCA and to their community. Three honorees were recognized at the event.
Rodney Finke, YMCA of Greater Houston Board Member was awarded the David D. Allen Memorial Award. This award is presented in honor of a person who, in service to the people of the Houston area, exemplifies the highest ideals of the YMCA. The honoree is a person who over many years has made a significant contribution of time, service or funds to the YMCA of Greater Houston. This is the highest individual award given by the YMCA of Greater Houston.
Rodney Finke, has given all of those things and more to the YMCA. Rodney Finke has been a dedicated friend, volunteer and fundraiser for the YMCA of Greater Houston since 2010 when he joined the advisory board at the Langham Creek Family YMCA. In 2012, Rodney was part of the group that were instrumental in the inception of The Miracle League in the Houston area, a program that has provided an opportunity for thousands of youths and adults with disabilities to play sports. He led efforts to raise funds to build the J.E. and L.E. Mabee Adaptive Sports Complex and chaired the planning committee for the 2021 Miracle League All Star game held in Houston. Rodney joined the YMCA of Greater Houston Association Board in 2018, where he currently serves on the Business/Finance, Executive and Executive Compensation Committees sharing his knowledge and leadership.
Jim Holcomb, CEO of Holcomb Properties and YMCA community partners was awarded the James H. Galloway Memorial Award. This award was established by the YMCA of Greater Houston in 1991 in memory of James H. Galloway as an annual recognition of an institution, organization, company or company leader that, through its corporate and/or volunteer services, has significantly supported the YMCA over the years.
Jim Holcomb has been a dedicated and gracious community partner. He was instrumental in every facet of the development of the Holcomb Family YMCA, a facility that serves children, adults and families in the Spring and New Caney communities. Jim gave of his time, talent and treasure to ensure this project was a success. Whether calling on others to join him with a financial commitment, helping secure permits, serving on the project team, or serving as the Honorary Chair of the capital campaign, Jim has been an integral part of the Holcomb Family YMCA. His leadership and commitment to the Holcomb Family YMCA has resulted in the completion of their phase 1 outdoor facility and recently the phase 2 Aquatic Center which was dedicated on March 25, 2024. Â Jim gives with a humble and caring heart and is a true partner to the YMCA of Greater Houston.
The final award of the morning was given to Sydnei Sisney, YMCA Teen Volunteer. The Jessica Loverich Youth Volunteer of the Year award is named for long-time camper and YMCA Camp Cullen junior leader Jessica Loverich. This award is presented to one youth: whose YMCA volunteer work has had a significant impact on the community, who has demonstrated positive leadership and strong character, who embodies an ethic of service and who exemplifies the five core values of the YMCA: respect, responsibility, honesty, caring and faith.
Sydnei Sisney, is a true testament to this award and no doubt has a bright future ahead of her. She demonstrates a profound commitment to learning, showcasing an unwavering pursuit of knowledge and personal development. As an advocate in YMCA Youth and Government, she utilizes her voice to champion important causes and foster positive change within her community. Sydnei’s leadership extends to her role as the Leaders Club Program President, where she empowers teens to actively engage in center activities and cultivates their leadership skills. Through initiatives like Y Teen L.I.F.E. and community engagement projects, she continually refines her ability to lead with empathy and resilience, gracefully overcoming obstacles.
The YMCA of Greater Houston thanks Rodney Finke, Jim Holcomb and Sydnei Sisney for their contribution towards helping the Y strengthen communities.