Ricky Ward, Ms
About Ricky Ward, Ms
Ricky Ward serves as the Associate Executive Director at YMCA of South Florida, where he has successfully led community engagement initiatives and secured funding opportunities. He has a strong background in program management and disaster response, having held various leadership roles in organizations such as the YMCA, American Red Cross, and OIC of South Florida.
Current Role at YMCA of South Florida
Ricky Ward serves as the Associate Executive Director at YMCA of South Florida, a position he has held since 2021. In this role, he has planned and executed large-scale events that engage diverse groups and interests. He utilizes third-party resources to enhance community engagement and has successfully identified and secured various funding opportunities for the organization. His leadership has been instrumental in the strategic revival of active older adult programs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Previous Experience at OIC of South Florida
Prior to his current role, Ricky Ward worked as the Senior Manager of Prevention Programs at OIC of South Florida from 2020 to 2021. During his tenure, he focused on implementing prevention strategies and programs aimed at improving community health and well-being in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Experience at YMCA of Greater Indianapolis
Ricky Ward held the position of Regional Director of Programs at YMCA of Greater Indianapolis from 2018 to 2020. In this role, he leveraged hospital partner assets and resources to enhance YMCA programming and services. His efforts contributed to fostering stronger community health partnerships in the Indianapolis area.
Education and Academic Background
Ricky Ward earned a Master's Degree in Human Services and Social Sciences from Walden University, where he studied Disaster Response and Crisis Intervention from 2016 to 2018. He also holds a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, completed between 2010 and 2013, and an Associate's degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from Ivy Tech Community College.
Career at American Red Cross and Celebrity Cruises
Ricky Ward has also worked as the Disaster Program Manager for Central Indiana at the American Red Cross from 2017 to 2018. His earlier experience includes serving as Youth Program Manager at Celebrity Cruises, Inc. from 2008 to 2010, where he managed youth programs and activities.