The YMCA of Western North Carolina has named Laura Lawrence as the new Executive Director of the Reuter Family YMCA, effective October 5.

Lawrence brings more than 20 years of experience in people development, organizational culture, community partnerships, nonprofit management, education, operations, fundraising, team development and organizational growth. Most recently, she served as Board President and Acting Executive Director of the Asheville Archery Training Center, where she helped grow the organization’s team and participation, strengthen donor relationships and guide the organization through a period of significant growth.

Her connection to the YMCA goes back to childhood. Growing up in Illinois, Lawrence began taking swim lessons at age seven and went on to become a lifeguard, swim instructor, coach and eventually an Aquatics Program and Facility Manager. After moving to Western North Carolina, she also spent time supporting the aquatics program at the Reuter Family YMCA.

“At its heart, the Y creates spaces where people belong and are connected to each other, and that matters now more than ever,” Lawrence said. “Kids, families, older adults, everyone has a place here to grow in spirit, mind, and body. That kind of belonging is the foundation of a healthy community. I'm honored and grateful to join the Reuter team and look forward to learning from the staff, members, and partners who carry it beyond our walls.”

As executive director, Lawrence will lead the Reuter Family YMCA in serving its members and community while working with staff, volunteers and community partners to build on the Y’s existing programs and impact.

The Reuter Family YMCA is part of the nonprofit YMCA of Western North Carolina, which has served the region for more than 135 years. The Y engages more than 100,000 people across Western North Carolina each year through programs and services focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Source: YMCA of WNC.