From YMCA of Reading & Berks County
The YMCA of Reading & Berks County invites the community to its signature annual event, the Breakfast of Champions for Youth, on Tuesday, May 12, from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading. Registration and breakfast buffet will open at 7 a.m. There will be complimentary validated parking in the DoubleTree garage.
Reservations can be made online at ymcarbc.org/breakfast-of-champions or by calling 610-378-4717 before Tuesday, May 5.
This inspiring morning brings together community leaders, partners, and supporters to celebrate those who embody the Y’s mission, strengthening the community while investing in the future of youth and families across Berks County.
“When we invest in youth, we’re investing in the foundation of our community,” said Ken Borkey Jr., President & CEO of the YMCA of Reading & Berks County. “Through access to programs, scholarships, and support, we help young people build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. That investment doesn’t just impact one child; it strengthens families and shapes the future of Berks County.”
Honoring those who make an impact
The 2026 Breakfast of Champions will recognize one outstanding youth leader, three individuals who inspire through their time and talent, and two organizations committed to strengthening the community.
Each award reflects the Y’s legacy and commitment to moving that legacy forward.
- Richard Palmer Sr. Wealth & Wisdom Award: Wynton Butler, Reading School District
- James Sternbergh Faith & Guidance Award: Dr. Susan Looney, Reading Area Community College
- Jere Edwards Spirit of Youth Award: Doug Dahms, Wilson High School
- Red Triangle Awards: Schlouch Incorporated, Barry Schlouch, and Mid Penn Bank
- Eugene Shirk Youth Leadership Award: Beloved Lenora Pair
The Breakfast of Champions for Youth raises funds and awareness for the YMCA’s mission and key areas of focus: youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Proceeds directly support programs that build life skills, expand access to childcare and youth development opportunities, and strengthen community well-being across Berks County.
About the YMCA of Reading & Berks County
For 167 years, the YMCA of Reading & Berks County has strengthened our local community through putting Judeo-Christian principles into practice with programs that build a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. The YMCA of Reading & Berks County operates five branches in Adamstown, Mifflin, Reading, Sinking Spring, and Tri Valley; two Early Learning Centers in Reading and Richmond; and seven transitional housing programs for residential care at the Reading Y and Camp Joy locations.
The Y is a nonprofit committed to strengthening the community and empowering individuals by ensuring access to resources, relationships, and opportunities for all to learn, grow, and thrive. By bringing together people from different backgrounds, perspectives, and generations, the Y strives to improve overall health and well-being, ignite youth empowerment, and demonstrate the importance of connections among 2,700 Ys in 10,000 communities across the United States.
