Miranda McHenry

For Miranda McHenry, the YMCA has never just been a place to spend the summer. It has been a place that has shaped who she is, from the moment she first stepped into camp as a third grader to now, serving as one of the Camp branch’s lead camp counselors and preparing for a future career in education. 

"I remember how the staff made me feel – safe  – and all of the fun activities I got to experience," she said. 

One counselor named Allie made an especially lasting impression. 

"She treated me with kindness and was always willing to listen," Miranda shared. "I'm still in contact with her even after leaving the program." 

Having someone who genuinely cared, showed Miranda the kind of leader she wanted to become. Years later, when it came time to find a summer job, returning to camp felt like a natural choice. 

"It has shaped me in a multitude of ways, professionally and emotionally," Miranda said. "I've also learned that you're never too old to have fun.” 

As she stepped into leadership, she found herself passing on the same encouragement and compassion she once received: "I try to create the same kind of experience by preparing other staff members and being a listening, compassionate ear." 

The lessons she's learned at camp extend far beyond the summer. Working with campers has strengthened her behavior management skills, taught her how to guide a team and reinforced the importance of putting others first. 

"This job is constantly about serving others before yourself," she said. "It is immensely rewarding." 

The values she carries with her are the same one's campers hear every week: try something new, make a new friend and have fun. Those simple expectations have become principles that Miranda hopes to carry throughout her life and career. 

When she reflects on her journey from camper to lead staff member, one thing stands out above all else: 

"Camp means adventure and a sense of community. A place where you can fully be yourself."