Bright Beginnings 2025: A Strong Start to a Bright Future

On Saturday, August 2, members of Local 3520 gathered at the Yadkin YMCA to take part in the annual Bright Beginnings program, helping children get ready for a new school year.
 

Each year, our volunteers show up with big hearts and willing hands, and it’s always inspiring to see the joy and excitement from the kids. It’s a wonderful feeling to play even a small role in a child’s school journey—knowing how much potential they have when given the right tools. Truthfully, it often feels like the kids inspire us even more than we inspire them!
 

In past years, our members and family members divided time between the Iredell and Yadkin County YMCAs. This year, with Iredell hosting its event on another day, our team came together at Yadkin to spend the day making memories with the kids.
 

Bright Beginnings is about more than backpacks and supplies—it’s about encouragement, confidence, and community. We’re proud to be part of a tradition that helps children step into the school year with a smile.
 

We want to recognize the following volunteers for their support and help this year:
 

Deirde Atkins              Andre Howell  

Mykeria Atkins            David McDaniel 

Treasure Ferguson     Kathy McDaniel

Jon Greene                 Brian "Rabbitt" Pierce

Helen Grier                 Jim Reilly

Tanya Hendrix            Sunny Ridenhour

Jerry Hodge               James Waggoner

Shenna Holmes          Shannon Waggoner