News

David Watler has been named the new Chairman of the YMCA of the Cayman Islands; he takes over from Andrew Johnson who has recently completed his three-year term.  Two of the main initiatives that have come about during Mr. Johnson’s tenure include a formal partnership agreement between the YMCA and the Cayman Islands Little League Association (CILLA) which allowed for the YMCA to assume day-to-day management of the CILLA fields, programmes and operations and move toward solidifying a location for the establishment of a YMCA Youth Programme Centre at the “Field of Dreams”; the opening of the YMCA Ropes Challenge Course, a team-building and leadership training facility made possible through funds from the Deputy Governor’s 5K Challenge event.

“The continued growth and vitality of our Y has been supported and guided by a talented group of servant leaders in our community.  As Board Chairman I was honoured to serve with such a special group of dedicated individuals who sincerely believe in the mission of the YMCA, living out our core values of “caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and faith,” said Mr. Johnson.  “We simply could not have the impact we do without their commitment of time, resources and energies. I am retiring with a sense of accomplishment and refreshed excitement to hand the reins to David, who provided excellent support as Vice Chair the past three years and is poised to lead our Board with awesome passion and sharp organisation and leadership skills.”

Mr. Watler joined the YMCA Board in March 2015 and took up the position of Vice Chairman in February 2016. He served as Chairman of the Philanthropy Committee for two years before taking on the Chairman’s role.   

“It is a pleasure and honour to be asked to serve as Chairman of such a great organisation with a 175-year history. I am thankful for the prior Chairmen, Andrew Johnson and Pastor Randy von Kanel, and their leadership in forming and growing the Y in Cayman and our amazing board and staff for their support and guidance,” said Mr. Watler.  “There are many social issues in the Cayman Islands but there are also just as many opportunities to ensure our youth, adults and seniors have facilities, programmes and guidance through sports, healthy living education and life skills to be the best they can be and contribute positively to our community. We look forward to partnering with other organisations and the government to continue to expand these facilities and programmes on island to meet these needs.”

Stepping into the role of Vice Chairman is Garth Arch, who joined the Y during its very early days in 2012.  Most recently, he has been serving on the strategic planning and facility committees.

For more information about the YMCA Cayman Islands, log on to www.ymcacayman.ky, email info@ymcacayman.ky or call 926.9622.