VOLUNTEER INDUCTEES

PAUL WILLIAM ALEXANDER (1888-1967)

In 1920, a luncheon club of men interested in the YMCA was formed in Toledo, Ohio, with the aim of supporting their local YMCA. Eventually, they began referring to themselves as Y’s Men and became a club known as the Y’s Men’s Club of the YMCA of Toledo. Among the organizers of this new club was a young lawyer named Paul William Alexander. He patterned the organization on what he considered the best features of the Rotary and other service clubs. In 1922, he was named the first International President. Today there are nearly 1,600 Y’s Men’s clubs around the world, with more than 28,000 members. Among his many areas of service in the early years of Y’s Men’s Clubs, Alexander was responsible for developing a program designed to help young men to become interested in serving the YMCA as Directors and Executives. This program has become known as the Paul William Alexander Scholarship Fund.

WILLIAM M. BARNHARDT (1928- )

A champion of the Y Movement, Barnhardt’s legacy of volunteer service spans more than 50 years and stands as a shining example of servant leadership.

Bill’s vision to revolutionize the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly is one of his most enduring contributions to advancing the Y Movement. Built in 1906 as a Christian conference center, the facility was challenged by a30-year financial crisis and operated only during the summer. Bill immediately recognized the Assembly’s historical significance and its potential. The 1,200 acre facility now serves more than 30,000 guests annually and is an important resource to YMCAs and organizations throughout the southeastern United States and beyond.

In the great tradition of George Williams, Bill has the ability to recognize a societal need and fully commit himself, and inspire others, to meet it. He welcomes those not affiliated with the YMCA to join the Movement, and encourages current supporters and members to deepen their commitment. His service merits historic record and underscores the sacred partnership between volunteer and staff to serve the mission.

YMCA HALL OF FAME 2013 Inductees