Site Visit - YMCA

Today our group had the opportunity to do a site visit at YMCA Camp Storer in Jackson, Michigan. We met with Becky Spenser, the director of camping, and Derek Bycraft, program director. They toured us around their different facilities and explained where the donation would be going to and how it would be beneficial. We learned that many of their programs are developed and successful, but the team sports program is lacking sufficient funds to create an effective program. Furthermore, they showed us a detailed slideshow presentation detailing how our money would be impacting 10,000 different kids.

Spenser and Bycraft seemed very passionate about the YMCA and why their mission closely aligns with the mission of Foundation 313. They continued to express how clearly our goals match the goals of the team sports program. YMCA works hard to teach camper’s skills, rather than just playing sports. Their current funds only allow campers to shoot basketballs or throw footballs around for fun, but this improvement would allow campers to learn new skills and bring something tangible home from camp. The $10,000 grant will be divided between buying equipment, paying to train and educate new employees, and funds to create a new curriculum. The equipment will cover baseball, basketball, volleyball, and football. These different opportunities will provide a very unique and differentiated experience.

Spenser explained a recent study executed by YMCA Storer that asked parents what they want their children to learn and experience while at camp. A majority of the parents expressed how important it is for campers to learn new skills and increase their overall self-esteem. These are two things that can happen through our grant.

Our class will be sharing our experiences from site visits on April 3. Our group is looking forward to hearing about other groups site visits and to explain our positive opportunity!