Robert & Leson's Story "We feel like new people, like we can be ourselves."BROADWAY YMCAY AFTERSCHOOLWhen school ends, our mom is still at work. That’s why the Y’s Afterschool program means so much to us—it gives us a safe, fun place to go.Robert: I love going to the gym and figuring out what we’re going to play—basketball, jail escape, whatever we come up with. During the summer, we even play on a Y basketball team with kids from other schools. It’s honestly the highlight of my day. When I’m here, I feel excited and free.Leson: It’s a chance to be with friends and not just stuck at home. Plus, they actually help us get our homework done, which really takes stress off when we’re back with our mom. And here, I don’t feel like I have to hold back. I can be my full self.Afterschool isn’t just fun—it’s a place where we feel supported while our mom works hard to support us. That means everything.