When one thinks of the meaningful impact a volunteer can have, Andy McNab comes to mind. Sixteen years ago, Andy and his wife, Becket, brought their five-year-old son John to the downtown Westport YMCA for swim lessons. Andy, born in New Zealand, Becket born in the U.S., met in London, and upon returning to the U.S., they found connection and community at the Westport Weston Family YMCA with group fitness classes and the Water Rats swim team.

Andy became an active WRAT Parent Club representative, volunteering his time as timekeeper and photographer before going on to co-chair the Parent Club from 2009-2016. His calm leadership helped the WRATs navigate a tumultuous period in their history when 70 swimmers left for a different swim program. Andy’s steadying perspective helped staff, board, and parents rebuild. Andy joined the Board of Directors in 2011. He has served on our Y’s Nominating, Capital Campaign, as well as Buildings committees and played a key role in the Y’s $30M building relocation project from downtown Westport to its current location – a project that was fifteen years in the making. He was also on the Build committee for the second phase project, the gymnastics gym and Mahackeno rebuild. In 2018, Andy served as the Board liaison to the WRAT Parent Club when parents raised concerns about pool air quality. Andy worked closely with the Y’s Facilities Director to institute testing and monitoring to ensure improved air quality – a project that took many months to resolve. Most recently, he has contributed to the long-term sustainability of the Y by donating countless hours leading legal, engineering, risk management, and land use personnel to address and advance the conversation on complex property-related questions.

Last but not least, Andy is generous, humble and has a great sense of humor. We are grateful for Andy’s determination and focus when it comes to solving difficult problems, his dedication to the Y, and his commitment to strengthening the community.