YMCA Promotes Leaders with Passion

The YMCA of Collier County’s former “Director of Capital Initiatives,” Mr. John Riley, and the past “Wellness Director,” Ms. Reilly Smith, have been promoted to “Director of Development” and “Director of Programs,” respectively. Both newly appointed directors will oversee their respective responsibilities on both campuses in Collier County.

Riley’s new responsibilities include overseeing four major revenue streams: fundraising, capital campaigns, special events, and grants. Smith will now be responsible for supervising five significant programs: Aquatics, Fitness and Wellness, Sports, Tennis, and Pickleball.

“Our members in both our North and South campuses will benefit from these two prominent professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in their particular fields,” said Cindy Love-Abounader, President and CEO. “They have the passion and energy to ‘make things happen’ and I am so proud of their past achievements and look forward to how they will impact the Y’s future.”

Riley holds a master’s degree from Georgia State University in Nonprofit Management and a bachelor’s degree from Emory University in International Studies. In addition, he earned the designation of “Certified Fundraising Executive” from CFRE International.

Smith earned her degree from Purdue University in Public Health and has obtained several certifications, including NASM Personal Trainer, Les Mills BODYPUMP Instructor, and “Rock Steady” Head Coach – an area where she uses her passion for working with people suffering from Parkinson’s. Smith describes her work as “opportunities to make a real difference in people’s lives by building their strength, confidence and independence.”