July Impact Story

From camper to counselor, Kalina’s YMCA journey has come full circle—and she wouldn’t have it any other way.

Kalina’s story with the Y began on Reed Avenue, where she first came as a daycare kid. She became a familiar face in YCAMP for three summers, took swim lessons, tried tennis, and spent time splashing around at family swim. Her memories are filled with sunshine, laughter, and the kind of mentorship that left a lasting impression.

“I had such an awesome time as a kid,” she says. “I wanted to come back and try to make that same impact on others that my teachers made on me.”

In high school, Kalina returned as a volunteer in Child Watch. By 2022, she was officially on staff—working in school age childcare and growing into a leadership role at camp. Today, she’s part of our New Y Leaders program and serves as a team member, helping to support both campers and counselors and ensure the magic of summer stays alive.

What keeps her coming back? The kids.

“I love seeing the relationships that build between campers year after year,” Kalina says. “Watching them come out of their shells, gain confidence, and grow over time—it’s incredibly rewarding.”

Kalina brings heart, energy, and intentionality to everything she does. She especially values the YMCA’s focus on core values and strives to model respect in her work. “I think respect is the building block of all relationships,” she says.

This summer’s theme—Adventure Awaits—feels like the perfect fit. Whether she’s leading games outside, encouraging a camper to try something new, or supporting her fellow counselors, Kalina lives out that spirit of curiosity, courage, and connection.

And to her, that’s what the Y is all about: “It’s the friendly atmosphere and the smiles on faces—that’s the beauty of the Y.”