July Fostering Connections
The Y is a unique place.
It’s where folks become healthier, it’s a place where kids grow in confidence and build resilience, and it’s a place where so many people build friendships and find belonging. Every day, people walk through our doors carrying different hopes, challenges and experiences. While they may come for a program, a class or a camp, they often leave with something much more meaningful.
As CEO of this incredible organization, one of the greatest privileges of my role is hearing stories from members and participants about their Y experience. Several stories shared with me this past week capture the impact the Y can have in people’s lives.
A friend of my wife recently sent her this text message:
“Happy summer! We have been utilizing a lot of Triangle Y programming this summer (Finley Day Camp and now Camp Kanata) and our son LOVES it. Truly. Please tell Bruce! He has ADHD and school is tough for him—the sitting in the classroom part—so this summer has been so good for his self-confidence.”
That message is a powerful reminder that camp is about much more than keeping kids busy during the summer. For many children, it’s an opportunity to discover strengths, build confidence and experience success in a new environment.
I also learned about a family facing unimaginable loss. At one of our day camps, our team is supporting children who recently lost their mother in a tragic way.
We often don’t know what people are carrying when they walk into a Y program. A child, parent or member may be navigating challenges that aren't visible to others. Our staff work hard to ensure that everyone who comes to the Y feels cared for, supported and welcomed. Life can be difficult, and sometimes the Y becomes more than a place to exercise or attend camp; it becomes a place of refuge and belonging.
Another parent recently shared this about Camp Clearwater:
“Camp Clearwater is the best! It is everything you picture when you think ‘summer camp’: canoes, archery, arts and crafts, swimming, games, woods, sweat, dirt. The counselors are fantastic. My kids have been attending for years and I’m 100% confident that Camp Clearwater will be a core childhood memory.”
Most of us carry happy memories from childhood, full of experiences that shaped us and stayed with us through the years. What an honor it is to work for an organization that helps create those moments!
This summer, more than 20,000 children will participate in our day and overnight camp programs. They will make friends, learn new skills, gain confidence and create memories that may last a lifetime.
These stories are just a few examples from a single week, but they reflect the heart of the Y’s Mission. Our impact isn't measured only by the programs we offer, but by the lives we touch.
Do you have a Y story? Share it here.
