Be the Spark - Jacqueline’s Story

For Jacqueline, being part of the Y has been a lifelong affair.

She went from attending Y Day Camps and the Leader in Training (LIT) program, to becoming a Camp Counsellor, a Helping Hands Site Director, Beyond the Bell educator and finally a Case Manager for Childcare Inclusion Services.

Jacqueline’s job is about helping to create an environment and experience where every child feels like they belong. She works with caregivers, community partners and the Y childcare team to get to know children, their strengths and interests, and develop a plan to help them integrate into Y Before and After School programs, Day Camp, and Beyond the Bell ™ programs.

When she was a teenager, Jacqueline wanted to be a teacher and felt her work at the Y would strengthen her skills and support her application… that was over 10 and a half years ago.

“I feel like I belong at the Y,” says Jacqueline. “I have a really supportive and collaborative team. Being in that environment, having positive relationships, and a great mentor is important to me.”

She says not only has the Y given her a work environment that sets her up for success, but she’s been given opportunities to grow personally and professionally through her committee work and participation in Y leadership programs.

But, she says, one of her favourite things about the Y is watching others shine!

“Something I love about the Y is seeing growth in our children and staff. I’ve benefited from being part of the Y, the programs, the connections, and the employment opportunities, but it’s also really cool to hear other people’s Y stories and learn what they’re getting out of their Y experiences,” said Jacqueline.

She says there’s one nugget of wisdom she remembers during her time as a Junior Counsellor that has stuck with her over the years.

“I remember the Day Camp Site Director and I having a conversation, that we never know how a child’s day has started, or what they may be experiencing outside of our programs. What we can control is how we show up for each child, through our approach and messaging. That’s really been a through line throughout my entire career and something I continue to reflect on.”

Jacqueline says she’s proud to work for the Y, and we are so lucky to have her. She, like all of our incredible staff, works every day to be the spark that ignites the potential in our communities.

Thank you for all you do Jacqueline! #BeTheSpark #ShineOn