New CEO Steven Scraggs Takes Charge at Alfond Center in Waterville

UPDATE: The Alfond Youth & Community Center in Waterville has officially named its new CEO, Steven Scraggs, who is set to lead the center after a remarkable tenure by his predecessor, Ken Walsh. Scraggs, 54, began his role remotely on December 4, 2023, and is expected to relocate to Waterville later this month.

This leadership change comes as the center prepares to build on the legacy of Walsh, who served for 34 years and helped raise over $100 million to establish the center as a model for youth development and community engagement. Walsh has moved to Florida, where he now leads World Youth Clubs.

Scraggs brings extensive experience from his previous role as head of a YMCA in Maui, Hawaii. He has dedicated the last seven years to the YMCA network, previously serving as executive vice president at a Kansas City YMCA. His diverse background also includes leadership positions in education, having been a principal within the Kansas City Public Schools and a large high school in Omaha, Nebraska.

In a recent phone interview, Scraggs expressed enthusiasm about his new position and community. “I’m really excited and looking forward to meeting as many people as I can and making Waterville my home,” he stated. He noted that he had never visited Maine before but was impressed with the beauty of the area and the friendly atmosphere during his visit.

The Alfond Center, located at 126 North St., is unique as it is the only combined Boys & Girls Club and YMCA in the country. The center offers a wide range of programs, including after-school child care, youth sports, health and wellness initiatives, summer camps, and more, catering to both children and adults in the community.

Scraggs emphasized the importance of continuing to evolve with the community’s needs. He assured stakeholders that the center would remain focused on maximizing its return on investment while introducing new programs and services.

Susan Scacchi, the new chairwoman of the AYCC board of directors, supported Scraggs’ leadership. In a statement on the Alfond Center’s website, she highlighted the intentional planning behind the leadership transition and expressed confidence in Scraggs’ ability to drive stability and growth.

As Scraggs prepares for his move with his wife, Stacey, and their two adult children, he remains committed to fostering community connections and enhancing the center’s impact. He is currently in the process of purchasing a home in the Waterville area.

This development signals a new chapter for the Alfond Youth & Community Center, with Scraggs at the helm, ready to make a significant impact on the community. Watch for more updates as Scraggs officially settles into his role in the coming weeks.