Jackson, 8, and his sister Clara, 7, look forward to the school bell ringing at the end of the day so they can go to the Virtual YMCA – an after-school program designed to give children the support and skills needed to make good choices, improve their grades and become leaders. It’s offered at 10 elementary schools in Hamilton, Brantford and Burlington identified as needing extra support.
Children enjoy healthy snacks and take part in fun activities like sports, arts, crafts and drama under the supervision of YMCA staff who act as role models. Kids receive help with homework -- a huge plus since 28 different languages are spoken at participating schools and more than half the students are not literate in their first language or in English. All programming centers on YMCA core values: caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
“Kids learn to treat others as they want to be treated,” says Jackson and Clara’s mom Leslie, whose children are developing confidence, self-esteem and a sense of personal power through this safe, supportive program.
Clara, once extremely shy, now plays happily with other children. Jackson, once a victim of bullying, confidently deals with life’s challenges. Both children also use the Virtual YMCA to catch up on their reading and homework.
The YMCA offers a wide variety of programming to help all children and their families reach their full potential. Help us change lives by donating to the YMCA Strong Kids campaign.
