Many of the Y stories below are made possible through community support. When you give to the Y, 100% of your gift goes to programs and financial assistance for children, families, and individuals in need. Together, we can close the achievement gap, promote healthy lifestyles, and provide life-changing experiences to families. Help transform lives by Donating today.
Pedro Vicente: Central YMCA Residence
After years of addiction and homelessness, Pedro Vicente came to Delaware in 2025 and found stability at the Central YMCA Residence in Wilmington. With staff support and his own commitment to recovery, he secured his own home within a year. His story shows how supportive housing and determination can help people rebuild their lives.
Donelle Harris: Walnut St. YMCA
For U.S. Army Private Donelle Harris, returning to the Walnut Street YMCA wasn’t just a visit, it was a calling.
Tommy Janton: YMCA Swim Team
Alongside sharpening his strokes, Tommy Janton found confidence, community, and friendships at the Western Family YMCA that would last a lifetime.
Teen Leadership: Sussex Family YMCA
Finn thrives as a summer camp counselor at the Sussex Family YMCA. It's where he stays active, keeps learning, and makes a real difference in kids' lives every single day.
Aria: Dover YMCA Camp Voyager
Aria found more than a summer camp at Camp Voyager at the Dover YMCA. She found a place where she belonged.
Dimitri Dimitrov: Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA
More than four years ago, Dimitri found a lifeline at the Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA. Through the Y’s Adaptive Fitness program, he discovered not only a path back to movement, but also a trusted partner in YMCA Health & Wellness Director and personal trainer, Charles Warner.
Nicole Vassallo: Western Family YMCA
Nicole Vassallo has lived near the Western Family YMCA most of her life. When life took an unexpected turn, the Y became exactly what she needed.
The “Sea Gals”: Sussex Family YMCA
What began as a beginner pickleball class at the Sussex Family YMCA turned into a lasting friendship for 14 active women who call themselves the “Sea Gals.”
Abigail: Dover YMCA Water Wise
At the Dover YMCA, water safety means more than just swim lessons—it means saving lives, building confidence, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive. One of those children is Abigail, a bright and determined young swimmer who learned to conquer her fears through the YMCA of Delaware’s Water Wise program.
Tasha Blackwell
Water Wise, a grant-funded program, provides free swim instruction for kids ages 3–17. Each year, more than 1,000 children at the Bear-Glasgow Family YMCA gain life-saving skills thanks to community donations.
Shawnte Manning
After being diagnosed as prediabetic, Shawnte Manning knew it was time to make a change. That’s when she found the YMCA’s Diabetes Prevention Program and prioritized fitness.
Rae Porter
For Rae Porter, the YMCA of Delaware’s Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) was more than just a class; it was a life-changing experience. Diagnosed as prediabetic, Rae had trouble breathing and needed a cane to get around...