When Natali Robinson was a child, she got to experience the magic of summer day camp at the YMCA first-hand. Speaking about that time around 15 years later, she revealed her most memorable takeaway.
"The counselors."
As a shy kid, coming out of her shell didn't come easy. But thanks to that experience of being around supportive adults, she was able to walk away with warm, positive memories of summer day camp.
"I didn't interact with people a whole bunch, but I remember specific counselors coming up to me and making me feel welcome and that I belonged at the Y."
Those memories of friendly faces followed her into adulthood. Now, she's paying it forward by creating an unforgettable summer for today's campers.
"I knew how much it meant to me to have somebody believe in you and look out for you. Being able to give back in that way was so beneficial and important to me. There's just no way I could pass up that opportunity. A lot of these kids really rely on having a good summer."
It's a true full circle moment within our Y community, and a testament to the impact that our staff have on the lives of our community. Sometimes, all it takes is one welcoming smile to make the difference in a child's day.
