The MetroWest YMCA hosted their Marathon Community Breakfast and Annual Campaign Kick-off at The Sheraton in Framingham, March 14.

A room packed with local and state elected officials, notable members of the Boston Marathon community, and various supporters, listened to President & CEO of the MetroWest YMCA Rick MacPherson’s groundbreaking announcements regarding the YMCA’s commitment to strengthening the community.

YMCA Board Chair Patricia Duarte and MacPherson gave the opening remarks, thanking everyone for their attendance and encouraging their continuous support.

“As we look to the future, your ongoing support and engagement are crucial. We are dedicated to enhancing philanthropic giving in order to expand services to those in need. And with your partnership, we can achieve even greater heights. Let’s continue working together to build a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community for all,” Duarte said.

Former YMCA Board Chair Reverend Emmett G. Price III announced the MetroWest YMCA is receiving $5 million in federal funding toward the MetroWest YMCA Regional Early Learning Center as part of the new Regional YMCA.

Senator Ed Markey, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and U.S. Congressman Jim McGovern sent their support through videos and said they worked closely with each other to find the funding for the new Regional YMCA.

“Young people are only 20% of our population. They are 100% of our future,” Senator Markey said in his video.

MacPherson was one of many to honor the late Rick Hoyt, a legend of the Boston Marathon and namesake of Team Hoyt, who passed away May 22, 2023.

MacPherson announced the MetroWest YMCA Board Members unanimously decided to name the new Regional YMCA after Dick and Rick Hoyt, and Team Hoyt as a whole.

He said the decision “stands as a testament” to the impact the Hoyt family has had on the community.

To further honor Rick Hoyt’s legacy, President & CEO of the Boston Athletic Association Jack Fleming asked Troy Hoyt, grandson of Dick Hoyt and nephew of Rick Hoyt, to be the official starter of the duo division of the Boston Marathon before he runs the race himself.

In addition to the major announcements, the 2024 Inspiration Award Honorees were presented with their awards.

Russ Hoyt, one of Dick Hoyt’s sons and Rick Hoyt’s brothers, presented the first awards to Kyle Broduer and Mike DiDonato, also known as “Team Unstoppable” from Team Hoyt.

“We are celebrating this year’s inspirational award winners by sharing the message ‘There’s a chair for everyone.’ This duo makes perfect sense as they embody the statement,” Russ Hoyt said.

Becca Pizzi, one of the 2019 award recipients, presented the final award to Zdeno Chara, former Boston Bruins Captain and now marathon runner.

“Z, today you’re being honored for your commitment and leadership in the community. Congratulations. I can’t think of a more deserving person for this Inspirational Award. Thank you for always showing up for our community,” Pizzi said.