The Impact of People Who Care

One of the great gifts of my job is when people share their gratitude about the WCY with me.  It is a gift for me to see these because often I had little or nothing to do with the event or activity that spurred the note or comment.  This note came in on the last day of summer camp, written to our Youth Development Director, Faith Boynton, cc'd to me.  It touched me so much,

and I asked Elissa if I could share it.  She said, "yes".  I am so proud to be part of an organization that has this kind of impact.  I hope you are, too. 

Camp Curiosity entranced by Ms. Marlen

"You and your programs have meant so much to our family over the past three years. This last day of camp is a very emotional day for me since it may be our last childcare stint with the Waldo County Y. I think that Hunter, Hayden and I are perfect examples of why the Y is so vital for this community. We moved here under very difficult circumstances and quite unexpectedly. Overnight I was a single Mom of two very young children living in my sister’s spare bedroom in a brand-new town. I was scrambling to find childcare so that I could work, and I’ll never forget that first phone call I had with you about Hunter joining the Bus Stop Before and Aftercare. You were so kind and genuine and I needed that so much in that moment. You let Hunter come spend an afternoon and meet some of the kids and immediately made him feel comfortable and welcome. Throughout that first year you were such a safe person for him as he really struggled with separation anxiety. I remember dropping him off for all-day care over breaks and him sobbing and clutching onto my leg. You would bring him into your office with you and let him pick out a sticker and sit with you to calm down after I left. He felt so safe and loved by you in a time that he really needed it. I truly can’t imagine what I would have done if I didn’t have that childcare and support. It enabled me to keep working and get back on my feet. When Hayden was old enough I knew without hesitation that she needed to be at the Little Learners preschool. This past year she has really thrived in the program and I’ve been so incredibly grateful for Ms. Jen and Ms. Marlen. She is more than ready for pre-K for sure!

Three years after we first showed up in Belfast, we are doing great and so much of that is due to the amazing people that have supported us along the way. You are one of those amazing people and I really want you to know that. Before I know it, Hunter and Hayden will be graduating High School and there will be many teachers and caregivers that will have touched our lives along the way. I can promise you that I will never forget you or the impact that you had on us." - Elissa Hamblen

I am so fortunate to live where I do, work where I do, have the colleagues I have, and be surrounded by this community. We could not do what we do without you. Thank you.