Dover, DE– The YMCA of Delaware is pleased to welcome John Rappaport as the Group Vice President and Dover YMCA Executive Director. As the Executive Director, John will help the branch reach its tremendous potential to grow membership and programs while advancing the mission of the Y. Additionally, he will support the expansion of the Sussex and Middletown locations as they move toward construction of new facilities in the coming years, and he will oversee all aquatic operations across the YMCA of Delaware.
John has worked for the Y for more than 30 years and comes to the YMCA of Delaware team with a wealth of experience. During his tenure with the YMCA of Greater New York, he served in many leadership capacities, creating positive change and building successful operations. In his most recent YMCA position at Central Maryland, he supported several branches and two aquatic centers. He is also an accomplished trainer and serves as faculty for YUSA, and is well known for his expertise in aquatics, membership and fundraising.
“We are thrilled to have such a dedicated and passionate YMCA veteran joining our Y of Delaware family,” says Deborah Bagatta-Bowles, CEO. “He is ready to jump right in and is excited to grow membership and programs while welcoming everyone in the community to the Dover Y.”
The Dover YMCA features a state-of-the-art fitness center, one outdoor pool and two indoor pools, a full-size basketball gymnasium and more. Many programs are available at the Y including babysitting and youth fitness while you work out, swim lessons, summer camp, before and after school care, teen programs, free group exercise classes, personal training, and more. The Dover Y proudly provides nearly $450,000 in financial assistance each year, ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, has access to all the Y has to offer. In 2020, more than 125 children were able to attend summer camp at the Y thanks to financial assistance, and nearly 135,000 free meals were provided to the community.
“I am excited to join the YMCA of Delaware team and look forward to expanding our impact to meet the needs of the Dover and surrounding communities. With a focus on membership and program quality, along with fundraising, we will be able to deliver our mission and provide a top-notch experience to those we serve,” said John.