RALEIGH COUNTY, WV (WOAY) – It was a packed house at the Beckley-Raleigh County Convention Center when the 36th Spirit of Beckley celebrated Byrd White for his selfless community contributions.
On the former Transportation Secretary’s lifelong dedication: “A modern-day question that President Kennedy posed 65 years ago — not what can my community do for me, but what can I do for my community,” said Dr. Tony Kelly, the 35th Spirit of Beckley.
White calls it a great honor.
“I’m really happy about this. Forty years ago, I was on the Y board and got involved with them then,” White said. “I hope it keeps going as it has. I’m sure it will. We’ve got great leadership, and great people doing stuff.”
Everything the retired senator accomplished over the course of his storied career has been special, leading the Y to feel he would make a great 2025 Spirit of Beckley.
“And what’s so unique about Byrd is that he’s really worked to make not just community, but also the city, the county, the state of West Virginia a better place overall,” said CEO Jay Rist.
White has also been commissioner of highways, an accountant, volunteer soccer coach, community leader, and has a deep Spirit of Beckley affiliation.
“I’ve been involved with this ever since it started, and never occurred to me that it might be me,” he said. “Just total surprise.”
The Spirit of Beckley is the Y’s largest fundraiser of the year, supporting its youth programs, including aquatics, child care, health and wellness, sports, and recreation.
“In various activities, whether it’s through swim lessons, lifeguard training, recreational soccer, basketball, volleyball, youth sports camps, summer day camp, or before and
after-school programs,” said Rist. “All the proceeds from the Spirit of Beckley go to support all of that each and every year.”
With the community’s generosity, the Y raised more than $155,000 for youth programs. They serve about 3,000 kids across the southern part of the state.
“This is about the Y and all the good it does for our community,” White said. “It’s a real cornerstone of what we do. Thousands and thousands of kids have come through the Y and been better for it.”
Kelly thanked his friend for reminding us what true leadership looks like.
“Thank you for giving without expecting, thank you for strengthening our community through your actions, your heart, and your service,” said the doctor.
