THE Y

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DOWNTOWN YMCA • EVENTS & NEWS • GOOD FRIDAY BREAKFAST • HOPE STORIES
STEVEN

a helping hand

Steven's Story of Hope


Steven’s mother hesitantly came to the Teen Center at the South Bay YMCA last spring wondering if there was any way he could be a part of camp. She was worried because Steven has Down syndrome and no verbal communication skills, so socializing can be hard. She stated that he had never been to camp before and wanted him to make some memorable experiences and gain some social skills and independence. As the Y is for everyone, the South Bay YMCA welcomed Steven wholeheartedly and he began camp soon after. At Teen Camp, Steven thrived as he participated in almost every activity and even was taught by the current campers a special high five greeting. The counselors and YMCA staff were friendly, understanding, and helpful in making sure Steven had a great time. His mother is so thankful for the wonderful experience that camp was able to provide Steven, and he equally loved making new friends. She believes that camp was the perfect bridge between learning and having fun, and explains that Steven “learned to be more friendly, kind to others, and to not be shy with other people around him. He learned how to follow orders and the consequences if he didn’t abide by the rules…These new experiences taught my son a whole aspect of personal growth and socialization. Thank you so much for this great opportunity for my son to learn the value of giving, and sharing with other people.” Steven is now a regular participant and Teen Camp would not be the same without him!