South Shore YMCA Honors Retirement of Longtime Board Members

The South Shore YMCA announced the retirement of three executive board members - Doug Briggs, Steve Briggs, and Alex Clark - who have collectively dedicated 125 years of service to the organization.

“Together, these three men represent an incredible 125 years of service,” said South Shore YMCA CEO, Paul Gorman. “Their unique contributions and family legacies with the South Shore YMCA—Steve and Doug as third generation and Alex as fourth generation—have been instrumental in the transformational changes within our organization.”

All three men have been involved in the most transformational projects for the South Shore YMCA and other Ys across the country, including the acquisition of the old Mill Pond Tennis Center to become the Emilson YMCA in Hanover, the construction of a new dining hall for Camp Burgess for boys, the development of the new building for the Hale Family YMCA, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary and plans for expansion. Their volunteerism and fundraising efforts have helped expand the impact of the South Shore YMCA to triple the number of members in their years together.

Doug Briggs has served on the board for 35 years and as Chair from 2001-2003, bringing his expertise as the CEO of Quincy Mutual Group and a CPA, ensuring financial stability and transparency of the Y’s finances. Doug’s journey with the Y began as a young man, following in the footsteps of his father, Karl Briggs, and grandfather, Harvey MacArthur. Doug introduced the concept of a balance sheet to the Y and worked on upgrading the Y’s computer systems. His unwavering support of the Y and local charities reflects his family’s multigenerational belief in supporting organizations that improve the lives of South Shore residents. The Briggs Family Field House stands as a testament to the dedication and support of the Briggs family.

“I just have the warmest feelings about the Y over many, many years,” said Doug. “My first experience at the Y was as a camper, at 10 years old. It’s been a complete privilege and pleasure to work with both the staff and the board over many, many years, and I can’t thank you enough.”

Steve Briggs, with over 40 years on the board, has been a passionate advocate for Camp Burgess & Hayward. Steve’s connection to the Y runs deep, with his father, Karl Briggs, having attended camp with the Y in 1939 and later becoming a fixture in philanthropic causes in Quincy. Steve has championed the cause of Camp Burgess & Hayward, serving on camp committees, fundraising, and supporting capital projects. An avid cyclist, Steve has also been a strong supporter of the Y’s Rodman Ride fundraising event. The intertwined histories of Quincy Mutual and the South Shore Y are a testament to the legacy of the Briggs family.

“Throughout my life, I’ve been blessed with and influenced by a lot of people and a heck of a lot of them had a connection to the Y in one way or another,” said Steve. “I have seen so much growth at this Y, and I encourage you to keep going.”

Alex Clark is a fourth-generation executive board member who joined the Quincy Y board in the mid-1970s. His great-grandfather, Alexander Clark, signed the articles of incorporation that created the Quincy Y in 1892. Alex’s grandfather and father each served on the Y board for more than 50 years. Alex has been a trusted partner in fundraising, deeply understanding the importance of stewardship and securing major gifts. He has been involved in every major project at the South Shore YMCA over the past half-century. Alex’s dedication to the Y is evident in his volunteer work, whether at Germantown Neighborhood Center Family Learning Garden, The Taste of the South Shore, or building bikes for children during Hope for the Holidays.

“Alex grew up with the Y,” shared South Shore YMCA CEO, Paul Gorman, “but, more importantly, he grew up with the Y mission. Alex is the first to volunteer, the first to give, and the first to speak up in support of the Y.”

“It’s been wonderful,” said Alex. “We have had a wonderful board… a board that others in the country would envy because of the support we receive. There is a lot happening, and it’s time to put new faces and new ideas into those seats. Thank you all.”