Katie’s foster family brought her to the YMCA for swim lessons and gymnastics at 4 years old and she continued to participate in programs throughout childhood. As a kid, she looked forward to the days she spent at the Y because it was a really fun place to be. Over time, she realized that there was always an adult that was looking out for her at the YMCA.
“The Y offers access to things you never imagined you could have,” Katie said. “There is always an adult that is ready to listen to you. You can’t count on that in foster care.”
Today, Katie is on staff as one of those adults' supporting kids. She leads classes ranging from culinary arts, theater arts to coaching basketball, teaching physical education and serving as camp counselor.
Culinary arts is one of her favorite classes to teach. “As a little kid, food wasn’t always available to me,” Katie said. “I teach this class in the context of helping kids learn how to help themselves with nutrition and feed their family.”
Katie is motivated to share her story hoping that kids in foster care and their families will find more connections and community at the Y. With the support of generous donations, children living in foster care receive a free YMCA membership.