Woody Clinard and Julia Clinard-Townsend Introduced as Newest Members of Red Triangle Society
On April 9, the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina introduced Julia Clinard-Townsend and her father Woody Clinard as the newest members of the Red Triangle Society.
The YMCA of Northwest North Carolina established the Red Triangle Society in 2002, and it is the highest honor a volunteer can receive. Recipients demonstrate long-term and significant commitment, enthusiasm and dedication to the YMCA mission.
Woody Clinard and Julia share a deep and enduring commitment to strengthening communities and expanding opportunity for all. Across generations, their leadership reflects a shared belief in the power of service, education, and connection to create meaningful, lasting impact. Together, they embody the YMCA’s mission of helping individuals reach their full potential in spirit, mind, and body.
Woody has been a dedicated member of the Winston-Salem community since 1974, guided by a personal commitment to “take responsibility to make the world better.” His passion for literacy and education has shaped much of his philanthropic and volunteer work, grounded in the belief that reading is foundational to opportunity and lifelong success. Through his generosity and hands-on involvement, he has supported a wide range of initiatives—from local literacy programs and Freedom Schools to international education efforts—while also investing his time as a tutor, mentor, and advocate for students and educators alike.
Julia carries forward that same spirit of service, pairing it with more than 30 years of executive leadership in the textile and apparel industry. A visionary and purpose-driven leader, she has guided iconic brands and led significant business transformation as President of Kayser-Roth. Known for her authenticity, strategic insight, and heart for others, Julia has built high-performing teams and driven innovation while remaining deeply committed to creating opportunities that help individuals and communities thrive.
Together, Woody and Julia have made a profound impact through their involvement with the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina. Woody’s longstanding support of the Annual Impact Fund and his investment in places and programs like YMCA Camp Hanes and youth initiatives have helped ensure that children and families—regardless of their circumstances—have access to life-changing experiences. Julia has complemented that impact through her leadership, serving as Board Chair of the William G. White, Jr. Family YMCA and helping lead the Mistletoe Run to record success, expanding financial assistance so that no one is turned away due to inability to pay. Today, she continues to serve on the YMCA Association Board of Directors and as Secretary of the Executive Board.
Their influence extends well beyond the Y. Woody’s work has strengthened organizations focused on education, family services, and community development, while Julia has provided leadership across higher education, the arts, entrepreneurship, and women’s advancement initiatives, including as Founder and Co-President of REACH Women’s Network. In every role, both have demonstrated a commitment to building stronger, more connected communities.
What sets Woody and Julia apart is not only their generosity, but the way they show up—bringing people together, opening doors, and inspiring others to get involved. Their leadership is both visionary and deeply personal, rooted in relationships and a genuine desire to see others succeed.
As father and daughter, their shared legacy is one of service, compassion, and long-term impact. Through their combined efforts, they continue to help create a community where all people have the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.