Meet Jacy Volk, dedicated Team UP donor and staff member at YMCA Calgary. Jacy has been investing in Calgary’s future leaders as a Childcare Educator at Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton since 2019.
Positive, caring relationships form the foundation of childcare at the YMCA, where children learn YMCA Calgary's core values: honesty, caring, respect, and responsibility. With the support of YMCA educators, like Jacy, children practice behaviours that support the development of social skills, emotional competence, and community engagement, enabling children to belong, grow, and thrive.
The YMCA holds a special place in Jacy’s heart: at a young age, she was a YMCA member, taking swimming lessons. She considers herself a “Y kid” – she’s grown up with the YMCA.
Jacy was raised by a single mother, so the opportunities she had as a kid were with the help of donations. This has led to her giving back where she can –and becoming a monthly donor. “It was just a no-brainer to play a part and be that person that can help, and the YMCA makes it so easy,” she shares. “As a community, we play a big factor in supporting one another and those who may not be able to afford it.”
To Jacy, the YMCA embodies nurturing, not just for her and her children but for countless families within our community. Working with the Kinder (ages 3-6) groups, Jacy believes in the power of community.
“We are all family here. I love working with the children, and the families all know each other. We are proud to call it our second home.”
Being able to see firsthand the growth and independence each child learns encourages Jacy to continue doing what she loves. The YMCA is a safe place for everyone who walks through the doors, especially children. Jacy recounts their daily walks throughout the building, where even at a young age, “they feel like they are in charge, as they march hand-in-hand, singing their songs down the hall, knowing where to go.”
Beyond financial stability, monthly donations signify a commitment to our cause, demonstrating ongoing trust and belief in helping our communities belong, grow, thrive, and lead. Each monthly donation is not just a contribution, but a commitment to giving back to those who need it most, so nobody is turned away.
Become a Team UP member today! Join Jacy, and others within our community to make an impact by making monthly donations. Check out #TeamUP to learn more and sign up.