Because Alan is an only child, coming to the Y has been critical in his social development; he has been able to make new friends and has increased his social skills which, in turn helped him with his personal and spiritual growth.   Because of the scholarship program at the Y, Alan has truly found a second home at the Y!  Alan is building his leadership skills and steps up to be a leader in youth dance classes.  Once the staff learned he loved to sing he began leading morning songs during summer camp. 

Alan also participates in the after school program where he has a lot of fun with his new friends and he is currently in the youth basketball league where he is working to improve his skills and hand-eye coordination.  Diane is pleased that the Y has been such a positive place for Alan and even notices that he talks about the exciting things happening at the Y when he comes home at the end of the day.  She is also thankful that the Y staff members are such positive role models because Alan comes from a single-parent household. 

Alan has grown in so many ways as a result of the Y programs.  He has become more socially responsible and often volunteers to help with special projects around the Y and always steps in to help guide other kids in making positive choices.  Alan recently said, “The Y is for learning and exploring in ways you can’t at school,” because he is always eager to try all the new things that the Y has to offer.