Thursday, August 21, 2025
Dear Friends,
It is hard to believe that summer is winding down and kids are already back to school…but what a tremendous summer we had! This year, our summer day camps were once again a great success, thanks to our dedicated staff, passionate volunteers and the thousands of families who trusted us with their children. Over the course of the summer, we served close to 2,000 campers each and every week. The number of kids that continue to return to camp week after week, and year after year, speaks to the quality and impact of our programs. From swimming and sports to creative arts and science, our campers grew in confidence, built lasting friendships, and developed new skills that will stay with them forever. We’re incredibly proud of the difference we’ve made in so many lives, and our team is already planning how to make next summer even more unforgettable.
We also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our Y members for your patience and flexibility in sharing the facility with our vibrant campers throughout the busy summer season. Your support and understanding makes it possible for us to create these life-changing experiences for so many young people.
Now, as our kids return to school, we continue to support their growth and development through a variety of different programs. This commitment is a key part of our Strategic Plan, focused on providing opportunities that set youth up for success at every stage of life. Our before and after school programs and youth sports leagues create safe, nurturing environments where children can learn, grow and thrive beyond the classroom. It is so important to keep our youth engaged and active beyond their school day.
We’re also very excited to announce the launch of our Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program. This initiative is part of Florida’s free, state-funded VPK program designed to prepare four-year-olds for kindergarten and is now being offered at our YMCA Camp Sierra and Central City Family YMCA locations as well as Morgan Woods Elementary School. This is in addition to the already operational full-day Licensed Pre-School program at both Camp Sierra and Central City. We are thankful for the experienced staff who ensure the highest quality of care and education for our youth. Together, we’re building a stronger community by empowering our youth with the tools they need to succeed in the future.
Finally, as we look forward to celebrating the official end of summer with the Labor Day holiday, I’d like to thank each of you for your contributions to our community. We all play a part in making Tampa Bay the vibrant, prospering region that it is. Labor Day began in the 19th century to recognize the contributions American workers have made to our country’s strength, prosperity and sustainability. I encourage you to take the time to celebrate the holiday and the contributions you have made not only to the community, but also to organizations like the YMCA who are working every day to develop tomorrow’s leaders.
Thank you for being a vital part of our YMCA family, we’re excited about everything that lies ahead this fall.
With gratitude,
Matt Mitchell
President & CEO
813.224.9622