YMCA to Host 18th Annual Veterans Prayer Breakfast to Honor Veteran Heroes

HUNTSVILLE, AL (October 9, 2024) - The Heart of the Valley YMCA is proud to announce its 18th Annual Veterans Prayer Breakfast, a community event honoring local military veterans, both past and present. This year’s event will take place on Friday, November 1, 2024, at the **Craig and Steven Hogan Family YMCA in Madison. Doors will open at 6:45 am for check-in and a coffee social, with the formal program starting promptly at 7:30 am. The event marks the official kickoff of Veterans Week in the Tennessee Valley.

Tickets for the Veterans Prayer Breakfast can be purchased online through October 25, 2024, at ymcahuntsville.org/VPB, by emailing events@ymcahuntsville.org, or by calling (256) 428-9622 ext. 208. Individual tickets are priced at $35. Veterans are encouraged to contact the YMCA to request complimentary tickets, while supplies last. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for those looking to support the event and its mission.

A Program Honoring Courage, Sacrifice and Duty
The Veterans Prayer Breakfast, held in partnership with the North Alabama Veterans and Fraternal Organizations Coalition, will feature musical performances, a heartfelt prayer ceremony, and an award presentation recognizing outstanding service to veterans. This year, the event will feature two inspiring keynote addresses delivered by distinguished guest speakers, CW5 (Ret.) Dr. Harry Hobbs, Vice President of Employee Engagement at Huntsville Utilities, and Lieutenant General Sean Gainey, Commanding General of U.S. Army Space & Missile Defense Command.

"For more than 100 years, the YMCA has been dedicated to supporting and uplifting our veterans, and the Veterans Prayer Breakfast is a significant part of that mission," said Heart of the Valley Interim CEO, Jeff Collen. "This event holds special meaning for the YMCA as we come together to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by those who have defended our freedoms. We invite the entire community to join us in this heartfelt celebration, showing our collective gratitude for the men and women who have served our country."

Supporting Veterans Through the YMCA Military Outreach Program
Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the YMCA Military Outreach Program, which provides essential services and support to veterans and their families. The program offers scholarships, discounted or free memberships, and access to YMCA programs designed to support the health and well-being of local active service members and their families.

In honor of Veterans, the YMCA will offer complimentary admission from November 1-11 to all Veterans, those with valid Military I.D., and their families at all branches of the Y: Downtown Express YMCA and Southeast Family YMCA in Huntsville and Hogan Family YMCA in Madison.

How to Get Involved
For more information about the event, sponsorship opportunities, or to purchase tickets, visit ymcahuntsville.org/VPB, email events@ymcahuntsville.org, or call (256) 428-9622 ext. 208.

Join us on Friday, November 1, 2024, at the YMCA Veterans Prayer Breakfast as we honor and celebrate the men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our country.


Pictured left to right: LTG Christopher O. Mohan presenting the Brigadier General, Robert Drolet Service to Veterans Award to Sam Bertling, alongside BG (Ret.) Robert Dolet at last year's event.

About Heart of the Valley YMCA:
For over 100 years, the Heart of the Valley YMCA has been dedicated to building a healthy spirit, mind, and body for all. Through its military outreach programs, the YMCA provides vital support to veterans and active-duty service members, promoting community connection and well-being.