Welcome to Mission Moment, a new series from CEO Amy Vendt where she highlights recent moments from around the Bath Area Family YMCA that exemplify our association’s commitment to our mission of promoting the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
“Our next generation of leaders should walk in our footsteps, not in our shadow.” – Tan Seow How
I’ve been connected to YMCA youth programs for as long as I can remember. My own Y story started when I was a young girl in our father – daughter programs and continued through my teenage years at YMCA camps. I still keep a few of those old patches in my office – they’re a simple reminder of why youth development matters so much to me.
Youth development has been part of the Y’s DNA for generations. From the very first YMCA Leader’s Clubs in New York City back in 1885 to the thousands of students involved in programs today, the Y has always helped young people find their voice and their confidence. That tradition continued earlier this month when five students from the Bath Y took part in the Maine YMCA Youth and Government program in Augusta.
Even though the program has existed in Maine for more than eighty years, it’s new to many people. Our students spent the fall drafting bills, debating issues, and learning how government really works – the messy, thoughtful, sometimes slow process of turning ideas into action. All of that hard work came together during a three-day model state government session held right inside the State House.
Our delegation president, Charles, summed up the experience beautifully:
“Youth and Government helped me realize my passion for civics and government. Without this program, I would not be as passionate or as informed about the legislative system in our state and in our country.”
I couldn’t be more proud of all five students who represented the Bath Y – and an extra congratulations to Charles, who brought home the “Statesman of the Year” award, a first in our Y’s history!
In the months ahead, you’ll be hearing more about the growing youth programs at the Bath Y, including the launch of Leader’s Clubs at both branches. My commitment remains the same: to ensure that every young person who walks through our doors, no matter their interests, finds a place where they can learn, lead, and thrive.
Amy Vendt
