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Collis McCloud Jr., the Association School-Age Childcare Director, has been recognized as one of this year’s Empowered Leaders Resource Network 30 Under 30 award recipients. This esteemed award celebrates the remarkable accomplishments of young leaders who are making a difference in their communities through the YMCA.

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Originally hailing from the Chicagoland area, Collis has made Eau Claire his home after earning his degree from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. A former college football player, he has channeled his passion for team-building and mentorship into his role at the YMCA, where his impact has been profoundly felt within the organization and the broader community.​

 

Beginning his journey as a Program Director at the L.E. Phillips YMCA Sports Center, Collis has advanced to oversee comprehensive Before and After Care programs across 15 sites, in addition to managing dynamic day camp programming. Under his leadership, these initiatives have not only achieved but surpassed financial goals, all while upholding the high-quality standards for which the Y is renowned.

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"Collis's dedication to youth development and his commitment to serving as a pillar of support for the children and families in our community is exemplary," said Derek White, President & CEO of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley. "His work goes beyond the walls of the Y; he is a true community leader, touching lives through his volunteerism and passion for mentorship."

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“Collis has been an instrumental part of our program and brings great leadership to the team. He has an extra special way of connecting with children. We appreciate his patience, care, and dedication to the program and are very proud of him for receiving this honor,” Amy Peterson-Foss, Executive Director of Program Quality, added.

 

Collis is also dedicated to coaching youth and high school football and actively contributes to the nonprofit Power of Perception, which offers mentorship and life skills classes to black and bi-racial students. His unwavering commitment to fostering potential and encouraging leadership among the youth serves as an inspiration to many.

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“Witnessing Collis's career trajectory over the past few years has been incredible,” remarked Dennis Beale, CEO of Power of Perception. “He started with me at Power of Perception, took a brief hiatus, and then returned. His return meant everything to me. You have a true gem!” The Power of Perception is a mentoring program led by Dennis Beale, focused on creating opportunities for minorities in the Chippewa Valley.

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“I wasn’t sure what I was looking for when I applied here. I sought stability for my life and to support my little brother,” stated Collis McCloud Jr., School-Age Child Care Director of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley. “This association has provided me the opportunity to establish that stability for both myself and my brother. He is now in his third year at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley has played a significant role in that.”

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Collis McCloud Jr. exemplifies the spirit of this award, showcasing unwavering dedication to his community while consistently addressing the critical challenges faced in the Chippewa Valley. His journey is a powerful testament to the importance of remaining true to one’s values and the influence of leading by example.