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Local YMCA’s Collis McCloud Jr. a Recipient of 30 Under 30 Award

National Empowered Leaders Resource Network’s list of ’30 Under 30’ awardees features familiar face

McKenna Scherer |

MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Collis McCloud Jr. is the recipient of the '30 Under 30' award by
MAKING A DIFFERENCE. Collis McCloud Jr., third from left, is one of this year's '30 Under 30' awardees, hosted by the Empowered Leaders Resource Network of the YMCA of the USA. (Submitted photo)

The Empowered Leaders Resource Network of the YMCA marked its seventh year hosting its 30 Under 30 awards on Dec. 6, recognizing the transformative impact the organization’s young leaders have on their communities. This year, one of the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley’s own was honored: Collis McCloud Jr.

Collis put roots down in Eau Claire after graduating from UW-Eau Claire, transferring his passion for team-building and mentorship – fostered while playing college football – to his role at the YMCA. Originally from the Chicago area, he first began his career as a program director at the L.E. Phillips YMCA Sports Center, rising through the ranks to oversee Before and After Care programs across 15 sites and managing robust day camp programming, a recent media release stated.

Now serving as the YMCA Association School-Age Childcare director, Collis’s community involvement is further displayed in his coaching of youth and high school football, and contributing to Power of Perception, a mentorship nonprofit for local students of color.

“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 and CEO of the local YMCA. “His work goes beyond the walls of the Y; he is a true community leader, touching lives through his volunteerism and passion for mentorship.”

Collis McCloud Jr.
Collis McCloud Jr.

The Empowered Leaders Resource Network, an internal leadership group of the YMCA of the USA, noted nearly 100 nominees were selected for consideration in this year’s “30 Under 30.” Collis was one of two recipients from the Midwest, and the only one from Wisconsin.

“Collis McCloud Jr. embodies the spirit of this award, demonstrating unwavering dedication to this community and continuously striving to address the pressing challenges in the Chippewa Valley,” the media release said. “His story is a testament to the power of staying true to one’s values and the impact of leading by example.”


Learn more about the YMCA of the Chippewa Valley online.