A Lifetime Commitment And 30 Years Of Achievements

LAGUNA NIGUEL, Calif. - March 5, 2014 - PRLog -- On February 27, 2014 the Laguna Niguel Family YMCA celebrated the legacy of Bob Orzoco, who began working at the YMCA of Orange County in 1984. This “Million Dollar Man” has raised the largest amount of money in his lifetime for YMCA staff and has been involved with the YMCA since he joined in 1938 as a scholarship recipient. Learn more about the Laguna Niguel YMCA and Bob’s story at www.ymcaoc.org/ln

Bob Orzoco’s story began in 1938, when he won a "Worthy Boy Membership" scholarship in his hometown YMCA in Pennsylvania. He has been part of the YMCA community ever since. After teaching swimming in the navy, getting his Bachelor's degree in Physical Education was the next step on Bob's journey. His first professional position was at the Central Branch YMCA in Rochester, New York in charge of young boys' physical education programs. After 25 years at Central Branch, Bob became the Director of the YMCA programs at 8 locations. Developing competitive swimming programs and holding fitness seminars with national leaders are just a few of his accomplishments. After his experience with swimming, Bob became the first National Aquatic Director for the YMCA.

Bob started at the Laguna Niguel Family YMCA in 1984 as Director of Membership and Physical Education. He became the first "Million Dollar Man" in 2008, a title given to him by the YMCA for having raised the largest amount of money in his lifetime for youth and family YMCA programs. He received a Lifetime Achievement Honor Award in March 2008 and the Character Counts Award in 2007. Bob's belief in the Y and its mission is exemplified in his lifetime commitment.

“Thanks. It’s the one and only word that always comes with a memory- the memory of something good, something thoughtful, something helpful. Said from the heart, it’s the best word to celebrate great endings or new beginnings. It’s not just the word, but everything it means “I noticed, I’m grateful, you made a difference, I appreciate you, and all that you do. Thanks,” says Bob.

Bob is married to his wife, Jan, of 28 years and lives in Laguna Hills with his five children. Bob is turning 84 years old on March 14, 2014; but still finds the energy to teach 10 fitness classes per week, volunteer, and fundraise for Annual Campaign.

To learn more about Bob and other YMCA staff members, click here to view the YMCA Storybook at www.ymcaoc.org/storybook (http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ymcaoc.o...).

To learn more about the YMCA of Orange County’s fundraising campaign and how you can help, visit http://www.ymcaoc.org/annual-campaign.