Dianne, Luis & Selina's Story

"My kids are growing up at the Y like I did—that's all I can ask for."

GREENPOINT YMCA

EARLY CHILDHOOD

The YMCA changed my life—and now it’s shaping my children’s.

I grew up at the Greenpoint Y. I joined as a child, got my first job here, and spent 15 years working in the same program my son now attends. When I became a mom, I knew there was no better place for my kids to learn, grow, and thrive.

Since joining the Early Childhood program, my son Luis has blossomed—socially, emotionally, and academically. He went from barely speaking to singing songs at bedtime and greeting every staff member with a smile. The Y gave him—and us—a place to belong.

This isn’t just childcare, it's childhood. It’s a foundation for strong families, confident kids, and connected communities. The Y has supported every generation of my family, and I’m proud to give back to the place that raised me and is now helping raise my kids.

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