Jennifer Williams
As a working mom of two, finding a safe and positive environment for Jackson and Josie before and after school was one of the most important decisions our family had to make. From the moment we enrolled Jackson in kindergarten and learned about the YMCA’s KEY Academy program, we knew we had found something special.
The YMCA KEY Academy program has been super impactful by allowing our kids to be in a safe environment while we’re working. It’s provided flexibility in our work life and more opportunities for our kids to interact with classmates they don’t always get to see outside of school.
There’s participation with the kids — it’s more than just watching our kids until we leave work. There’s structure and fun, creative activities that help make each day a bit different. There are times my kids want to stay!
The transition from a smaller daycare setting into elementary school wasn’t always easy, but the YMCA staff helped guide both children through those changes with patience and care.
Helping me and the kiddos work through situations kids their age go through has been greatly appreciated. Having others help guide them on the right path toward good choices when it’s easy to be influenced has been instrumental in shaping them into great individuals.
Over the years, both Jackson and Josie have grown tremendously through their YMCA experiences. Jackson has become heavily involved in YMCA youth sports programs, participating in recreational flag football, basketball, t-ball and soccer throughout the year. Watching him develop confidence, teamwork, and sportsmanship has been especially rewarding.
Josie has become more confident and shown leadership with peers both in the classroom and at KEY Academy.
WHAT JACKSON AND JOSIE THINK ABOUT THE YMCA
Jackson shared, “Sometimes I get excited because we go outside or have free time in the gym.” One of his favorite memories was participating in a silly string activity during the last week of third grade. “We all had fun and got to spray whoever.”
Josie remembers how the YMCA staff helped her feel welcome when she was nervous starting school. “I had no friends in kindergarten, but Ms. Ciera also made me feel better.”