A Place to Belong: Dover YMCA Camp Voyager
In 2024, Aria, now heading into third grade, found more than a summer camp at Camp Voyager at the Dover YMCA. She found a place where she belonged.
From days spent in the outdoor pool to hands-on adventures and new friendships, Aria built confidence, learned life-saving water safety skills, and discovered what it means to feel truly at home.
“People are nice here. Like they understand you. They make you feel like you’re at home,” Aria said. “And that’s what I like about this camp.”
Camp Voyager quickly became something Aria looked forward to all year. But in 2025, that joy was nearly taken away.
Despite working three jobs, Aria’s mom, Ashleigh Summers, faced a difficult reality: summer camp was suddenly out of reach.
“Originally, Aria was not going to come to summer camp. I could not afford it,” Ashleigh said. “It would have definitely broken her heart.”
Determined not to let her daughter miss out on a place that meant so much, Ashleigh turned to the YMCA of Delaware’s Open Doors Financial Assistance Program. Open Doors is a program designed to ensure every child has access to safe, enriching experiences, regardless of financial circumstance.
“I didn’t want to tell her she couldn’t come because mommy couldn’t afford it. So, I reached out.”
Because of Open Doors, and the generosity of Y members and donors, Aria returned to Camp Voyager.
The impact has been immeasurable.
“Oh my goodness, her personality. She says hi to everybody. She comes home excited and talks about her day,” Ashleigh said. “The Y has helped grow her mind and prepare her for third grade.”
At camp, Aria spends her days swimming, exploring nature, going on field trips, and learning the values of respect, kindness, and community.
“It’s very fun at this camp.,” Aria said. “They teach us about being respectful and being nice to others.”
For Ashleigh, the YMCA is more than a summer program, it’s a vital part of the Dover community.
“The Y offers something different. It stimulates their mind in a different way. They’re enriched through activities, nature, swimming, and connection. That’s so important for our youth.”
Today, Ashleigh hopes her story encourages other families to seek support and reminds donors just how powerful their generosity can be.
“Don’t be ashamed. There is help there. You just have to reach out, speak up, and ask for help. That way, your child can still enjoy summer camp without the burden of financial hardship.”
Because when doors are opened, confidence grows.
Potential is unlocked.
And children like Aria get the chance to thrive at the Y.