Thousands of Snohomish County youth have experienced the fun, magic and wonder of YMCA camp this summer. Thanks to the support and partnership of school districts, donors, funding sources and partner organizations, the Y has extended its community reach, providing camp opportunities for more local children than ever before.
“At the YMCA, we believe every child deserves the chance to experience the excitement and learning that comes with summer camp,” says Patsy Cudaback, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at YMCA of Snohomish County. “We are grateful for partnerships that ensure kids who might not otherwise have the opportunity, can join us at camp and create lasting memories, build friendships and discover their potential.”
This summer, the Y has partnered with two new organizations, the Everett Gospel Mission and Volunteers of America Western Washington (VOAWW), to provide transformative summer camp experiences for children facing challenging circ*mstances. These collaborations celebrate the power of community and the commitment to fostering resilience and strength in youth by providing opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.
A partnership with Everett Gospel Mission
The YMCA of Snohomish County’s collaboration with the Everett Gospel Mission sends local kids from the Mission’s Family Shelter Program to a week of overnight camp, enriching their summer with engaging activities and unforgettable memories. Many children in the Everett Gospel Mission’s programs have never had the opportunity to attend camp. The Mission, which previously sent kids to Warm Beach Camp, turned to the YMCA when camp programs shifted during the pandemic. YMCA’s Camp Snohomish, located at Warm Beach, became the perfect new venue.
This summer, the Y has partnered with two new organizations, the Everett Gospel Mission and Volunteers of America Western Washington, to provide transformative summer camp experiences for children facing challenging circ*mstances. Courtesy YMCA
“Most of our kids would never have these opportunities,” says Suzanne Peterson, Director – Family Shelter at Everett Gospel Mission. “Engaging in social groups outside their usual environment helps them dream differently and navigate a path out of poverty.”
Whitney Butterfield, YMCA Director of Camp Advancement, echoes this sentiment, highlighting how overnight camp experiences build independence and confidence in children.
The impact on the youth is profound. Initially hesitant children find joy and growth through the camp experience. “In my 20 years here, we’ve never had to pick up a child early. They all end up loving it,” Peterson shares. The camp environment nurtures resilience and a broader sense of self and offers parents a much-needed respite while their children are safe and happy.
A collaboration with Volunteers of America Western Washington
In another initiative, the YMCA of Snohomish County has joined forces with VOAWW to provide summer camp experiences to Ukrainian refugee children. Washington has welcomed more than 25,000 Ukrainians since 2022, and these families face unique challenges. Summer camp provides a safe, nurturing environment for these children, allowing them to heal, grow and enjoy childhood after enduring significant trauma.
“Many Ukrainian families don’t want their children to be bored at home alone during the summer, especially with the extra challenges they face,” says Olga Wiley, Family Support Specialist at VOAWW. The YMCA’s camps offer a supportive space where children can make new friends, practice language skills and find a sense of belonging.
Megan Proost, Director of Child Care Advancement at the YMCA, expresses the organization’s honor in providing these opportunities. “Our camps are supportive environments where children can thrive,” Proost says.
VOAWW aids families in registration by providing technical support and translation services, ensuring a seamless process. This partnership aims to send children from over 60 families to camp, all at no cost to the families, thanks to YMCA donors and community partners. Camp allows these strong, resilient children time away from the daily stress and challenges they face, allowing them to just be a kid.
The collaborative effort between the YMCA and all partners highlights how community organizations can unite to strengthen and support the most vulnerable, nurturing confidence and hope in the youngest residents of Snohomish County.
To join with the YMCA and its community partners to send kids to camp, please visit camp.ymca-snoco.org/campership.
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