We Prevent Drowning
For Amaya and her family, a day at the pool took a frightening turn. During a family swim session, Amaya slipped out of her life jacket and found herself struggling in the water. Thanks to the quick response of her family and YMCA lifeguards, she was safely brought out of the water.
Her parents knew they wanted Amaya to feel safe and confident again, so they enrolled her in swim lessons. With patient instructors and a calm, encouraging approach, Amaya slowly built her confidence within the water. Today, Amaya is swimming independently and smiling every time she jumps into the pool. Amaya took it a step further and joined our swim team.
We Help Kids Succeed
This year, Coach Joe had the privilege of volunteering for the YMCA’s 6–to 8-year-old soccer team, a decision joyfully encouraged by his son, Je’Veon.
Each week, he watched the kids grow not just as players, but as individuals. Their confidence blossomed as they learned to trust themselves, support one another, and celebrate both small victories and big goals. Those moments, seeing a shy player take their first strong kick or watching the team cheer for one another, were truly heartwarming for him.
Coaching at the YMCA taught Coach Joe that leading young athletes requires more than soccer knowledge; it takes patience, passion, and a genuine desire to help children succeed. He was fortunate to have incredible support from the parents and staff, whose encouragement allowed him to focus on what mattered most: inspiring and guiding these young players.
We Prepare Teens for Life
Jordan is a proud member of our Y Achievers program, where he embodies what can happen when determination meets support. Last school year, he began attending Tutoring Tuesdays to get extra help in math. This past summer, Jordan also participated in our NextGen Camp, where he gained valuable life and leadership skills, including working one-on-one with counselors, building his résumé, giving back to his community, and creating lasting summer memories.
Beyond his academic accomplishments, Jordan continues to give back by volunteering with the Achievers program to complete his service hours for AFROTC. His commitment to growth, both in and out of the classroom, makes him a shining example of how our teen programs prepare young people for life.
We Help People Grow Healthier in Spirit, Mind, and Body
For Petra, the journey toward better health started with one goal: building stronger bones and a stronger future. After learning about the importance of bone health, she joined the Women on Weights Small Group Training program at the Y. Through the program, she’s not only seen improvements in her bone density and overall strength, but also in her confidence and energy. Each week, she lifts a little heavier and moves a little easier. Her biggest motivation? Her grandkids.
“They’re my why,” she shares. “I want to be active, strong, and present for every moment with enough energy to keep up with them and enjoy a long, quality life together.” The Y has provided her with a supportive community, an empowering coach, and the tools to thrive. At the YMCA, we help people grow healthier spirit, mind, and body.
