Roger Martin: Remembering a YMCA Legend
Not many people can say they've run a marathon, let alone 25! Roger Martin was a trailblazer, not only in the world of health and fitness, but also in the world of philanthropy.
The retired YMCA of San Diego County executive developed a multitude of running and fitness programs during his tenure at the Downtown Y, but even more importantly, in 1979, he and a few dozen other friends of the Y founded and became Charter Members of the YMCA of San Diego County's Heritage Club.
Today, thanks to the vision and passion of people like Roger, the YMCA's endowment fund has grown to over $45 million, ensuring a strong future for our YMCA for generations to come.
Roger's wife, Gerry, recently said, "It makes me happy to know Roger is being remembered and recognized for his dedication and cumulative achievements with the Y. He was a 'Y Guy' through and through, and I was and am so proud of him."
In 2011, Roger was awarded the prestigious James Naismith Award. The award is in recognition of an individual who served the majority of his active and post YMCA career in health, wellness and sports development using creative vision in the design and implementation of community wellness.
Roger's zest for life will be missed by all who knew him, but his good work in our community will remain in perpetuity.
If you would like to support the Y with a gift in your estate plan, please contact Courtney Cordero at [email protected] or (858) 292-9622.
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