The stigma of single moms needing financial assistance weighed heavy on Megan Wallace and often prevented her from asking for help. When a neighbor raved about Camp Oowassis at the Sussex YMCA, Wallace knew she needed to put her pride aside for her kids. She applied for the Open Doors financial assistance program and was able to join the Sussex Y, giving her kids the opportunity to experience the joys of summer camp.

“Asking for help is hard for many people,” said Megan. “The Open Doors program is literally opening doors for people like me and my family.”

Megan credits the Y and Camp Oowassis with allowing her kids to grow socially, especially after setbacks due to isolation during the pandemic. “I feel like they’ve become more positive and more confident since coming to the Y,” Megan said.

After seeing the positive impact that the Y had on her kids, Megan, a retired bartender, stepped out of her comfort zone and took a job working for the Sussex YMCA. “I’m making a bigger difference here than I ever did serving a beverage,” Megan said. “One of the reasons I came here is because I want to give back personally to the community. Now, being a part of the Y family, I feel like I’m able to do that every day.”

Megan hopes her story encourages single parents like her to inquire about the Open Doors program through the Y. “This was probably one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life.”

Head to the Sussex YMCA website for more information on all the incredible programs and offerings available: https://www.ymcade.org/locations/sussex-ymca/