Annette R. Larabee Named 2024 Robert C. Knox, Jr. YMCA Distinguished Leadership Award Recipient

Media Contact: Dan Tapper, Sullivan & LeShane Public Relations, Inc.
dtapper@ctpr.com / 860-573-4236
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 24, 2025
 
Annette R. Larabee Named 2024 Robert C. Knox, Jr. YMCA Distinguished Leadership Award Recipient
Hartford, CT — The YMCA of Greater Hartford is proud to announce that Annette R. Larabee has been named the 2024 recipient of the Robert C. Knox, Jr. YMCA Distinguished Leadership Award. The award was presented at the YMCA’s 175th Annual Meeting, held on April 24, 2025, recognizing Annette’s exceptional service, unwavering leadership, and lifelong commitment to strengthening community through the mission of the YMCA.
Annette Larabee’s journey with the YMCA began in 2008 through the Glastonbury branch and has since evolved into a legacy of dedicated leadership. A respected financial executive and long-standing volunteer, Annette has served in numerous leadership roles throughout the association—including Chair of the Finance Committee, Treasurer of the Board of Directors, and most recently, Chair of the CEO Search Committee. Her thoughtful guidance and strategic vision have played an integral role in shaping the organization’s success and impact across the region.
“For Annette, community isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life,” said Harold Sparrow, President and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Hartford. “She leads with integrity, insight, and heart. Her contributions have created lasting change for children, families, and communities throughout our association.”
With a deep passion for programs that empower youth and support education, Annette has been a champion of initiatives like the BellXcel Summer Learning Program and the Wilson-Gray YMCA Best Buy Teen Tech Center. Her leadership reflects a commitment to creating opportunity and belonging for all—values that align deeply with the Y’s mission.
Annette’s dedication to community extends far beyond her volunteer service. A senior leader in the banking industry for over 25 years, she has also given her time and talents to organizations such as Junior Achievement, the Hispanic Health Center, and the Connecticut River Valley Chamber of Commerce, advocating for financial literacy and inclusive economic development.
In accepting the award, Annette shared, “Giving back to the community has always been important to me. The Y is a vital part of our region, and I’ve always tried to do my part to keep it relevant and strong. I’m honored and deeply grateful to be recognized in this way.”
The Robert C. Knox, Jr. YMCA Distinguished Leadership Award is the highest honor given to volunteer leaders of the YMCA of Greater Hartford, recognizing individuals who exemplify the spirit of service and dedication to advancing the Y’s mission.
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About the YMCA of Greater Hartford: The YMCA of Greater Hartford has been building stronger communities for over 173 years. The Y is dedicated to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. In 2024, the YMCA served more than 68,000 individuals and provided over $1 million in financial assistance toward valuable resources that provided access to life-changing programs.