I’m fundraising for the YMCA because I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand how much of a difference our programs make in the lives of children and families in our community. Through my work in Community Development, I work closely with youth during after-school programs and throughout the summer. I facilitate STEAM ( Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math)activities as well as fitness and well-being sessions that encourage kids to learn, stay active, build confidence, and have fun.

One of the most meaningful parts of this work is seeing how much children benefit from having extra support outside of regular school hours. After-school programs give kids a safe and welcoming environment where they can explore their interests, ask questions, develop new skills, and receive encouragement from caring adults. Not every child has access to these opportunities during the school day, which makes programs like ours even more important.

The YMCA is a nonprofit organization, and our programs depend on the support of our community. Every contribution helps us continue creating meaningful opportunities for children and families. I’ve personally seen how excited the kids get when participating in STEM activities, and watching them grow in their confidence and curiosity is incredibly rewarding.

I’m proud to be part of a program that invests in young people and helps them discover what they are capable of. Supporting this fundraiser means helping us continue providing experiences that inspire kids, strengthen families, and build a stronger community. **Any amount of support would mean so much to me and to the youth we serve. Thank you for helping us make a difference!**