As most of you already know, I started working at the Morrison Family YMCA in May 2017. I actually joined the Y to start working out again. At the time, I was questioning my career path in education and feeling a little burned out, so I needed an outlet. I remember taking a tour at Morrison and seeing all of the Youth Development programs. I had no idea that the Y offered so much for kids. To me, it was always just a "gym and swim". After joining, I went home that night and applied for jobs in Youth Development. This was the start of my career with the Y.

In my time with the Y, I have learned that it's so much more than just a "gym and swim". I truly believe in the mission and the work that we are doing with Youth Development. I love the people, the community and the programs that we run. Landry now participates in these programs and gets to join me at work each day, which is so special. The Y truly changes lives each and every day.

The YMCA of Greater Charlotte is celebrating 150 years! I hope that you will join me by making a donation to help change the trajectory of a child's life through youth development programs. In 2024:

The Y will provide over $2 million in financial scholarships for programs like preschool, afterschool and summer camp.

Over 3,000 children will be served with literacy instruction through programs like Y Readers, which is offered at no charge to participants.

Over 1,500 children will receive swimming lessons at affordable rates for their families.

To continue serving the community, we need your support! Give today so we can provide these services for all.