Medhat Mahdy, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Toronto, was presented with Vaughan’s Key to the City by Mayor Maurizio Bevilacqua. Mayor Bevilacqua acknowledged Mahdy and the YMCA’s community-building efforts, this includes creating a safe and inclusive space for the community to gather in Vaughan’s new emerging downtown. Mahdy also accepted the Spirit of Generosity Partner Award from the Mayor on behalf of the YMCA.

“In presenting the Key to the City to Medhat Mahdy, I want to express my warmest and sincerest gratitude to him for all that he has done. It has been a privilege to have worked with him,” says Mayor Bevilacqua. The Key recognizes Mahdy’s commitment to bring positive change to people’s lives by promoting the greater good in our society.

The Key recognizes Mahdy’s commitment to bring positive change to people’s lives by promoting the greater good in our society.  

Mahdy first joined the YMCA of Greater Toronto in 1976 as a part-time tennis instructor. The YMCA of Greater Toronto is a charity that ignites the potential in people, helping them grow, lead and give back to their communities. Promoting equity and boosting well-being across more than 440 locations in the Greater Toronto Area, the YMCA is a leading charity that helps everyone shine. Mahdy has made a significant impact in making the YMCA the charity it is today. Throughout his career, Mahdy has been part of the team leading the charity’s current strategic plan, Ignite the Light. The plan advances the YMCA’s vision of creating vibrant communities, including opening one of the latest Centres of Community, The YMCA at The David Braley Vaughan Centre.

“The Key to the City not only belongs to me — it also recognizes everyone who makes the YMCA of Greater Toronto the vital charity it is today. I am thrilled that, as Vaughan’s downtown grows, it will be supported by our services, which will contribute to the well-being, health and sense of belonging in the community” says Mahdy.

The Key to the City is presented at the discretion of the Mayor and is given to those who have shown outstanding civic contributions and positively contributed to the city and its residents. We congratulate you, Medhat!