When I started working at the Y in 2007, I didn't know much about the organization.  Throughout my years working, I have learned a lot about the impact that the Y has on others.  I never would have imagined that my work would impact other families.  Or that the Y would impact mine...

My first year at the Y, one of the kindergarten students I worked with told me that she wanted to be just like me when she grew up.  After that, I told everyone that I was lucky because I was able to work with some of my biggest fans everyday.

A few years later, a student in my school age program lost her father.  Her mother was grateful for the fact that I was able to keep her engaged and help to make her life a bit less stressful at a time when everything was turned upside down.  Because of money raised be generous donors through Campaign, we were able to provide the family with scholarship money so that something in her world would stay consistent.

And here we are today.  I was ready to go back to work, but nervous because I had spent the last couple of years at home with the kids.  The Y welcomed me back with open arms (literally...there were hugs all around), and worked with me to make sure that the transition wasn't too overwhelming.  My kids love the Y.  They are happy to come and play.  They love swim lessons.  Bayleigh has learned a new skill through her ballet class.  And soon they will be starting soccer together.  I appreciate all of the opportunities they have to try something new.

Please help me to continue to make an impact.  Any amount helps to send a child to camp, to make sure children have a safe place to go after school, and to make sure that we never have to turn away a community member who needs us.