On June 8, we were honored to welcome Fox10 and Irene Snyder to our Scottsdale/Paradise Valley YMCA as they highlighted the powerful impact of Summer Day Camp programs across the Valley. During the visit, Amanda Siegal, Executive Director of the Scottsdale/Paradise Valley Family YMCA, shared how these programs are helping local children stay engaged, active, and connected throughout the summer.

Summer Day Camp is about so much more than keeping kids busy while school is out. It provides a safe, supportive environment where young people stay active, build friendships, discover new interests, and continue learning throughout the summer months. By helping prevent summer learning loss and encouraging healthy habits, our camps create opportunities for youth to learn, grow, and thrive.

We are grateful to FOX10 Phoenix, Irene Snyder, and Amanda Siegal for helping share this story and shine a light on the lasting difference camp makes for children, families, and communities throughout the Valley. Together, we are helping youth Be Well by investing in their health, development, and potential, creating experiences that empower every child to reach their full potential.

On June 10, we celebrated an exciting milestone at the Northwest Valley Family YMCA with a ribbon cutting ceremony recognizing facility improvements made possible through the generous support and partnership of the City of El Mirage.

We were honored to welcome Mayor Alexis Hermosillo, city leaders, community partners, board members, and YMCA supporters to mark this special occasion. The event was made even more meaningful through inspiring Mission Moments shared by Dearadra Smiley, Harmonee, and Angelique Torres, whose stories reflected the lasting impact the Y has on individuals, families, and our community.

We extend our sincere gratitude to the City of El Mirage for investing in significant upgrades to the basketball gymnasium, child care room, group fitness room, and pool. These enhancements represent more than improvements to a facility. They are an investment in people and in the future of our community.

By creating welcoming spaces where individuals and families can connect, grow, and thrive, we continue to live out our commitment to Do Good every day. We are grateful to the City of El Mirage and all those who helped make this vision a reality as we work together to build a stronger, healthier community for all.

Recently, we had the privilege of celebrating a remarkable milestone at our Y-OPAS Volunteer Recognition Event as we honored the program's 25th anniversary and recognized the dedicated volunteers who make its mission possible.

For 25 years, Y-OPAS (Outreach Programs for Aging Seniors) has been helping older adults maintain their independence and continue living safely in their own homes. Through this community-driven effort, volunteers provide free support services that help seniors remain connected, supported, and empowered as they age.

The celebration was a powerful reminder that leading change often begins with simple acts of service and compassion. The commitment of our volunteers has transformed lives, strengthened communities, and created a lasting legacy of care for thousands of seniors throughout our region.

As we reflect on this milestone, we are grateful to every volunteer, partner, and supporter who has contributed to the success of Y-OPAS over the past 25 years. Together, they exemplify what it means to Lead Change by building a community where older adults can age with dignity, independence, and a sense of belonging.