LYNN — YMCA of Metro North leaders have honored longtime donor and volunteer Andrew Demakes with the Ethel Leonard Award for Service.
Demakes currently serves on the Board of Directors and is being recognized for his “continued generosity, volunteer leadership, and commitment to supporting children and families in the City of Lynn,” according to a press release from the YMCA of Metro North.
Demakes has been a longtime supporter and volunteer at the YMCA and within the Lynn community for decades. Demakes is the Chief Executive Officer of Demakes Bros. He is also a board member of the Agganis Foundation.
The Ethel Leonard Award for Service recognizes those who have created a lasting impact in the community and exude dedication, compassion, and service that reflect the spirit of the YMCA.
His family’s legacy was honored in 2021 with the renaming of the branch at 40 Neptune Blvd. to the Demakes Family YMCA. This past April, the branch opened a Music and Performing Arts Center. During the holiday season, Demakes also leads the YMCA’s Holiday Shopping Festival.
“I am grateful to the YMCA of Metro North and the incredible staff who make this work possible for children and families every day,” Demakes said. “The City of Lynn has meant so much to me, and giving back to people in the city that has supported my family and our business will always be a priority. The Y gives me a meaningful way to support the community I care deeply about, and I am thankful to play a part in helping local families through events like the Holiday Shopping Festival.”
The award was announced at the YMCA of Metro North’s 2026 Annual Meeting on May 14, which brought together local leaders, donors, volunteers, community partners, and staff.
“Andrew’s support comes from a very genuine place,” said Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO of the YMCA of Metro North. “He believes in Lynn, he believes in our families, and he understands the power of the Y to turn generosity into real help for the community. His volunteer leadership and longtime support of the Holiday Shopping Festival have made a meaningful difference, and we are proud to honor him with this award.”
In addition to Demakes, the YMCA of Metro North recognized Northeast Regional Vocational Technical School with the Community Partner Award for its partnership in helping students gain practical experience while supporting children and classrooms at Y Academy.
The Melrose Family YMCA Lifesaving CPR Team was honored for their quick action, training, and commitment to member safety. The Y also celebrated its Y Champion Scholars, recognizing young leaders who represent the mission, promise, and future of the YMCA.
Dave Gravel, founder of GraVoc and outgoing chair of the YMCA of Metro North Board of Directors, received the Outstanding Leadership Award for his service, guidance, and commitment to the organization.
The YMCA of Metro North also welcomed Jerry Salerno as incoming chair of the Board of Directors, marking an important leadership transition as the organization continues its work across Lynn, Melrose, Peabody, Saugus, Stoneham, and surrounding communities.
