The YMCA has been a major part of my upbringing, and it is a great privilege to be in a position where I can give back to an organization that has shifted the trajectory of my life. I began working for the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago in 2017, where I was able to work with the kiddos in inner-city Chicago through summer day camp and after-school programming. I witnessed the direct need in the community I was serving, and recognized the impact that different forms of trauma had on my students. Issues of gun violence, poverty, child welfare, and abuse were common in the community I worked in. As a social work major at the time, I knew I wanted to work in a community where the children really needed me. I have always been passionate about making a direct impact.

I relocated to Arizona in December and accepted the position of Childcare Director at the Southwest Valley YMCA. Throughout my short time in this role, I have learned a great deal about my kiddos-specifically some of the trauma that hinders their success & growth. This community is very different from inner-city Chicago, but the need for consistent support is still present. Like many of our kiddos, I had a very traumatic childhood, and because of programs like our local Y and other resources, I was always loved intentionally, poured into, and given the things I needed to thrive. I want to do my part to ensure the safety and well-being of my kiddos here at Southwest Valley, which is why I am fundraising to create financial margin for our kiddos to have access to our programs, in addition to a donation closet that provides resources to kiddos in need! I want every child who wants to be apart of our programs to be here, without the stress of worrying about financial barriers that may prevent them from participating. No child should be left behind due to factors out of their control, and that is where we step in to bridge the gap.

Thank you for supporting the YMCA and their legacy of insane generosity, inclusion, and life-changing programming.