YMCA of Columbia-Willamette Teen Division Testimonials

Testimonials
Please read these personal testimonies and see what people are saying about the YMCA Teen Division.

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Always Another Road
Drug and Alcohol Counselor Mikki Proffitt believes our system for youth is broken. According to Mikki, YMCA teen programs are now providing hope for families. “Y teen programs are valuable, real and life changing, putting kids on track to graduate.” Kelsey was expelled from school last fall, but after Mikki encouraged her to attend a YMCA teen program, she is now on a path to graduation. Kelsey says, “I see the possibilities and believe there is always another road.” No longer involved in drugs and alcohol, Kelsey has moved beyond her anger and sees her life from a new perspective.

Phoenix Program Improves Teen's Life
After Jesse was expelled from Sandy High School he was required to attend a YMCA teen program. He didn’t want to be there and thought it was dumb. But, after the first few days he began looking forward to the sessions. His Drug and Alcohol Counselor Mikki Proffitt said, “The YMCA program helped Jesse take responsibility for some really tough stuff in his life. He has grown in leaps and bounds.” More recently Jesse chose to participate in YMCA Phoenix, a teen transformation program. Jesse describes himself as a good guy who doesn’t like to lie or be lied to. “Before the YMCA I was failing in school and then was expelled. Today, my grades are coming up, I’m happier and I’ve learned it’s okay to trust people.” Jesse also says, “These teen programs helped me to problem solve, get to know myself better and to build stronger, better relationships. Good relationships are important to me.” According to his counselor Mikki, “As Jesse completes his junior year he has made so many positive changes – really determining what is valuable to him.” Today Jesse looks forward to his senior year and has a better idea of what he wants to do in the future and has a stronger commitment to doing better.

Youth Advisory Council Provides Meaning
Peter is a member of the Sherwood Teen Center and participates in the Youth Advisory Council. He says before he was a participant, “I was a couch potato watching television and doing nothing.” Peter got involved because he wanted something meaningful to do. Because of the YMCA Peter says, “I am now more active and participate more.” He thinks the YMCA is a great place to be and wants everyone to get involved. Peter is a recipient of the Volunteer of the Year Award.