Sir's Story "I know how this community changes lives for the better."BEDFORD STUYVESANT YMCATEEN CENTERI started coming to the Y because my friends were in Teen Center and playing basketball after school. I didn’t know what to expect—but I ended up finding something way bigger than just a place to hang out.At the Y, I found a second home. A place where I could grow up a little. I learned how to handle tough situations without acting on impulse. I started taking serious things seriously. And I found people who really care—who are honest with me and hold me accountable, even when it’s hard.One of those people is Bazo. At first, I didn’t even know he worked here. Now, he’s like an older brother to me. He’s always had my back and pushed me to do better. When I went to Leaders Club retreat for the first time, I ended up winning the Spirit Award. That meant everything to me—because it showed me I could be a leader too.I’ve gotten better at communicating, I’ve gotten better at basketball—but most of all, I’ve gotten better at being myself. Someday, I want to go to law school. And if that doesn’t work out, I want to come back and work at the Y—so I can give someone else what the Y gave me.