The YMCA of Reading & Berks County welcomed community leaders, partners, advocates, and supporters to the 2026 Breakfast of Champions for Youth on Tuesday morning at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, raising $110,000 so far for its annual support campaign for programs and services that strengthen youth, families, and the community across Berks County.
“This morning is a reminder of what is possible when a community comes together around a common cause,” said Ken Borkey, Jr., President & CEO of the YMCA of Reading & Berks County. “Every dollar raised and every person recognized represents an investment in belonging, opportunity, mentorship, and brighter futures for the children and families we serve.”
The annual event celebrated individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, and commitment embody the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. From the national anthem performed by Schuylkill Valley School District students to the performances by Reading YMCA Early Childcare Center’s Pre-K students, the event reinforced the spirit of youth confidence and achievement.
Along the lines of celebrating youth champions, Borkey recognized the Reading Y Swim Team for its record-breaking performance at the recent National Championship. Winning first place in the 200 freestyle, Owen Eisenhofer won the first national individual championship in Reading Y’s history. More victories followed throughout the meet for 16 dedicated athletes from schools across Berks, who are united by the Reading Y swim team.
Recognizing 2026 Honorees
Borkey and Y Volunteer Board Member Crystal Gilmore-Harris, the event emcee, gave awards to six outstanding changemakers whose work continues to positively impact the lives of local youth and strengthen the Berks County community:
- Richard Palmer, Sr. Wealth & Wisdom Award Honoree:
- Wynton Butler, Reading School District
- Y Volunteer Board Member Crystal Gilmore-Harris, Honoree Wynton Butler of Reading School District, and Y President & CEO Ken Borkey, Jr.
- James Sternbergh Faith & Guidance Award Honoree
- Dr. Susan Looney, Reading Area Community College
- Jere Edwards Spirit of Youth Award Honoree: Doug Dahms, Wilson High School
- Red Triangle Award Honoree: Schlouch Incorporated, led by Barry Schlouch and his wife Deb Schlouch (pictured in the middle left) Red Triangle Award Honoree: Mid Penn Bank, Accepted by Joseph Butto
- Eugene Shirk Youth Leadership Award Honoree:
- Beloved Lenora Pair, 16, senior at Wilson High School
Throughout the morning, attendees heard powerful stories (Y Stories Video) highlighting how YMCA programs help children and families gain access to childcare, mentorship, scholarships, swim safety, summer camp experiences, educational support, and opportunities that build confidence and lifelong skills.
Funds raised through the Breakfast of Champions directly support YMCA programs and financial assistance initiatives that ensure no child or family is turned away due to inability to pay.
Thanks to the generosity of our annual support partners, table sponsors and donors, the Breakfast of Champions has already raised $110,000. This year’s Legacy Partners were:
- Dorothy M. Haas Charitable Trust, Represented by Richard Auman and Clair Auman. (Pictured L-R: Sinking Spring YMCA Executive Director Jesse Whiteman, Richard Auman, Clair Auman, and Y President & CEO Ken Borkey, Jr.)
The Y is accepting donations throughout the month online at www.ymcarbc.org/donate.
