YMCA Day of Giving

When Jordan first arrived at Fairview Lake, he was shy, cautious, and unsure about being away from home. By the end of the week, everything changed. Jordan learned to paddle a canoe, made a best friend in his cabin, conquered the climbing wall, and left camp with a confidence that carried into the school year. He discovered joy in being outdoors, pride in trying new things, and a community where he felt like he truly belonged.

Before coming to Fairview Lake, I was the kind of person who stayed in the back of the classroom. I had ideas but never raised my hand. I had friends but struggled to feel like I belonged. I always felt a little out of place. My first year at Fairview Lake changed that. During cabin time on the first night, my counselor encouraged each of us to share something we were proud of. When it was my turn, I spoke quietly about a project I had done in school. Instead of ignoring it, my cabinmates cheered. It was the first time I remember feeling completely seen. Throughout the week I tried things I never imagined I would try. I learned to steer a sailboat. I climbed higher on the wall than I expected. I led our lip sync dance because my cabinmates encouraged me to do it. Each time I stepped outside my comfort zone, the people around me made me feel safe and supported. By the end of the session, I realized something important. I was not quiet because I had nothing to say. I was quiet because I had not found the right place to speak up. Fairview Lake became that place for me. Now, as an older camper, I help younger campers feel included. I cheer them on the same way I was cheered on. I want them to feel the same sense of belonging, achievement, and relationship that helped me find my voice.

My daughter Ava had never been away from home before, but I knew that summer sleepaway camp was something I wanted her to try. We’d had a tough year, and I didn’t think I would be able to send her, but I found out that the Y offered Financial Assistance, so I signed her up. After dropping her off, I waited anxiously each day for word from camp. It came in the form of a postcard with only a few simple words written on it. “Mom- I made so many friends and am learning to sail. They have a goat! Can you put more money in my trading post account? - Love Ava” When pick up day finally arrived, she ran up to my car with a huge smile on her face. It was one of the best hugs I have ever gotten from her. On our way home, she recounted all of her adventures – describing everything with enthusiasm. I learned about her favorite lunch in the dining hall, the international counselors who taught her new games, and a friend from another cabin who shared her newfound love of archery. She possessed confidence I didn't know she had. Those three weeks at camp have profoundly changed her in the best ways possible. She started a new school this fall, and I know that the time at camp gave her the skills to navigate new friendships and the bravery to try new things. Without the support of financial assistance this would have never happened for my daughter, and I am forever grateful.