I have been a passionate supporter of the YMCA for many years. As a member of the Community Development Y Board, I work with a talented group of staff and other Board members to ensure that everyone graduates high school prepared to be a strong member of our St Louis Community. My Board helps to develop and execute programs addressing needs in Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), teen mental health and Youth in Government. I am personally engaged in the Literacy program, tutoring an adult student. Working together, my student has increased her reading level two grades and is thrilled she can now help her grandchildren with their homework. There is such a huge need in St. Louis for Literacy education! I am confident the Y is helping to improve the literacy levels in St Louis and thereby enable citizens to be active and successful members of our Community.