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.