Cherish began her journey with the Shasta Family YMCA as a Y Club participant. In 6th grade, after coming from an afterschool program that did not quite meet her needs, she was introduced to Y Club, where she found herself shining brightly. The Y provided her the opportunity to not only complete her schoolwork but to participate in engaging activities and socialize with new friends. It did not take long for Cherish to become a loved member and friend of the Y.
After falling in love with the Y and finding a place to belong, Cherish set her ambition on becoming a Y staff member. With encouragement and support from Y staff, she was hired as a Child Watch Attendant. This year, Cherish was also sponsored to attend Camp McCumber as a CIT (Counselor in Training).
When asked why Cherish loves the Y, she explained that she appreciates the “comfortability, community, and overall environment” that the Y creates for all of its employees, members, and guests. The Y has been and will continue to be a safe space for Cherish to grow, thrive, and succeed.