For 16 years, the YMCA Center for Community Impact (CCI) has been delivering critical services that help young people discover their strengths, share their stories, and move toward their full potential.
Through life-changing programs delivered both inside and beyond YMCA walls, CCI works alongside youth in underserved and under-resourced communities to help them build confidence, develop leadership skills, and create brighter futures.
On May 15, we gathered to celebrate the youth we are fortunate to serve, recognize the collective impact of our community partnerships, and raise vital funds to sustain this work.
This year’s theme, Celebrating Youth Voices, honored the power of young people to lead, inspire, and shape their communities. In partnership with organizations including Tacoma Public Schools, Clover Park School District, Greentrike, Pierce County Juvenile Court, and many others, the YMCA continues to amplify youth perspectives and provide spaces where every voice matters.
Congratulations to Penny Sanchez for being named Youth of the Year, Miranda Lee for being named Mentor of the Year, and Tacoma Public Schools for being named Partner of the Year.
Keep scrolling to hear directly from program participants, school district partners, and YMCA staff.
Penny Sanchez, Youth of the Year: "I gained knowledge. So much wisdom from incredible mentors."
Megan Clark, Tacoma Public Schools, Partner of the Year: "The YMCA has been a fierce supporter of young people."
Miranda Lee, Mentor of the Year: "I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my students. But more importantly, I wouldn't be here if there wasn't a need."
Charlie Davis, YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties President and CEO: "They're helping the kid see a vision for themselves, to create a vision that they can believe in and that they can achieve."
Vincent Barron, Senior Program Director: "Imagine a space where students walk in knowing their ideas matter, where they feel confident enough to speak up, support one another, and believe they can make an impact."
Chris Spivey, Senior Executive Director: "What I desire for my own kids is the same thing that our staff desires for each of the youth that we serve. And then some."
Don Brevik, Youth and Government Program Director: "It supports teens in building their self-efficacy, provides a safe place where they can formulate their ideas, and voice their beliefs."
Shalaby Barreto, Baker Middle School: "It makes them feel brave and undefeatable."