Sunday, April 23, 2023 | Special Advertising Section 1 R 28 SPONSORED CONTENT PROVIDED BY YMCA OF GREATER SEATTLE The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on our children’s physical and mental health. Mental health challenges are creating educational and social hurdles for children. According to an analysis released by the Mayo Clinic, 28% of people ages 4 to 19 suffered from anxiety in 2021, and 23% struggled with depression. Youths also reported persistent feelings of loneliness, stress and tension. Children with severe obesity, ADHD, OCD and chronic health issues were among the most vulnerable groups. For adolescents, a few factors contributed to a higher risk of mental health issues, including belonging to the female gender, poor coping strategies, and, notably, those who preferred outdoor social activities. The stress of isolation, potential infection, school closures and change in routine compounded the already challenging terrain kids face every day. “Young people face new challenges of climate change, cyberbullying, harm brought on by social media and a sobering rise in hate and bias-related violence,” says Gwen Ichinose Bagley, senior vice president and youth development officer at the YMCA of Greater Seattle. “Our youth have struggled and learned unhealthy coping practices, which can leave them feeling helpless, dejected and full of anxiety and dread with no outlet.” In dealing with these feelings of stress, a return to nature and community has been invaluable for local kids. Last year, 74 schools brought more than 5,600 students to experience outdoor education at Camp Colman and Camp Orkila, and more than 3,300 joined the Y’s Summer Day Camp programs in 51 locations across the region. Summer camp access is vital to reconnecting kids At YMCA of Greater Seattle it’s our mission to build a community where all people, especially the young, are encouraged to develop their fullest potential in spirit, mind, and body. Visit us at seattleymca.org/givebig to learn more or give today. Depending on the program, children focused on exploring the outdoors, engaging in STEM activities, learning a new skill or sport while also making friends, building confidence and experiencing daily adventures. YMCA leaders’ aim is to reach all kids who want to participate, particularly those who are typically underrepresented, including youth who are BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, or come from families struggling with financial insecurity. “Support for the Y’s offerings helps change how we serve the community and allows us to dream even bigger,” Ichinose Bagley says. “Things like translation services to reach new communities whose primary language is not English, transportation support for community partners to access program locations, and more robust behavioral support resources are huge priorities for our work, and they are severely underfunded. Our ability to operate beyond the basics will be crucial to our ability to realize our vision.” The outreach has paid off for families in need. For example, when the pandemic began in 2020, single mom Kristen struggled to cope with raising her 9-year-old son, Xavion, while caring for her grandparents. The financial strain and isolation were tough on the family, and Xavion’s typical energy for sports was replaced by hours of playing video games. Kristen was relieved when she learned Xavion had been approved for financial assistance to attend YMCA Camp Orkila in the summer of 2021. “It was honestly a shock to my pride initially,” she says, “but my best memories as a kid were at camp, and Xavion having this experience with peers was so important for me.” Xavion thrived at camp, making new friends and growing his confidence. Last summer, Kristen had gotten back on her feet and was able to enroll Xavion at YMCA Camp Colman’s six-week summer program, this time without financial assistance. Xavion’s second experience was even more motivating and positive, particularly for his social life. “My contact list is growing,” he jokes, referencing the number of friends he made and keeps in touch with. “I felt like the counselors were calm and made me feel like I could be myself and make friends.” Xavion is looking forward to camp this summer and was excited to learn about the Y’s program, which he’s eager to join when he’s older. For Kristen, seeing Xavion grow and benefit from his summer camp experience is never far from her mind. “I’m so grateful that we had the opportunity,” she says. “Had the financial assistance not been in place that first year, last year wouldn’t have happened. He would have missed out on all of it.” Last year, 3,306 youth experienced Y Summer Day Camp at 51 locations across the region, fostering creativity, building self-confidence, friendships and belonging. Donate today! Seventy-four schools brought 5,623 students to experience outdoor education at Camp Colman and Camp Orkila in 2022. (Photos courtesy of YMCA of Greater Seattle)
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