A Fresh Start for a Family
Like most parents, Jennifer measures her son Julian’s growth on a regular basis.
Since Julian’s start at the Y five years ago, he hasn’t just grown—he’s thrived.
“We moved here from out of state and wanted a fresh start. Everybody told me to go to the Y,” said Jennifer. “The Y helped Julian come out of his shell.”
Julian’s progress started in YMCA After School where he gained confidence and made friends.
YMCA counselors also recommended Y Learning, the YMCA's standardized tutorial program. He was enrolled at his school. Under the leadership of caring role models and certified teachers, Julian's grades improved, and his confidence grew.
He reached his next milestone, his grades improved and he earned a spot on the honor roll.
YMCA Summer Day Camp provided support during his time out of the classroom.
"At camp, you just have fun," exclaimed Julian. "I learned how to make new friends."
“We’ve been recipients of the Annual Campaign. It made a huge difference in our lives,” said Jennifer.
All YMCA youth programs offer educational components to help close the achievement gap. Programs like Y Learning, summer day camp and after school allow students in seven counties to succeed in and out of the classroom.
As for Julian, he’s transformed. Today, he’s a confident teen who can’t wait to be a YMCA counselor.
Currently, Jennifer volunteers for the Annual Campaign and even drives a bus for the YMCA’s Middle School After School program.
“I look at it as a way to give back to a program that has truly benefited Julian’s life,” said Jennifer about volunteering. "I'll do whatever I can to help another child come to the Y.”
