The Y is a charity that helps its neighbors learn, grow and thrive. From A to Z, the Y offers a variety of experiences to nurture the potential of every child and teen, improve our community’s health and well-being, and support those in need.
When he was two years old, Trejan was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. At the time his blood sugars were so dangerously elevated that he required a week of hospitalization. His grandmother and guardian Pamela had to learn how to help regulate Trejan’s blood sugars and find child care for both him and his older brother Dante so she could continue to work.
After searching for private day cares, Pamela continued to run into a similar response: “We are not licensed to care for a diabetic child.” Almost out of options, Pamela turned to the Y where she was told that the Y would be happy to work with her and Trejan. The staff at the Y maintains open communication with both Pamela and Trejan’s school so that they can work together to assist in his diabetes management. As a result, Trejan has not had any problems with his diabetes. “Trejan loves to come to the Y” and is enrolled in multiple child-centered programs including swimming, summer day camp, out of school days, and before school and after school programs. He loves to come to the Y and play with his friends.
Pamela “wouldn’t trade her experience at the Y for the world.” She believes that “the staff is what makes the YMCA.” “The staff has done everything for Trejan. They potty trained him, they do everything.” “The [child care staff] work well with the kids.” Pamela asserts that “More people need to turn to the Y. The Y offers way more to children and families than just a daycare.”
When you give to the Y, you help children like Trejan, and you help us create a stronger community. The Y has accomplished much in Pima County over the past 100 years. With your help, we will continue our work for another century. Give. And do so much more.
