We are thrilled to announce that Shannon Sullivan, Director of Camp & Teen Services, and Kayla Hendrickson, Director of School Age Child Care Services, have been selected to serve on Y-USA Thought Leader Cohorts (TLC). A prestigious national initiative that brings together YMCA leaders to shape the future of teen and out-of-school-time programming.
Over the next 13 months, Shannon and Kayla will collaborate with YMCA leaders and experts from across the country to explore innovative approaches, develop best practices, and address emerging needs in teen and youth services. This opportunity will allow them to bring new strategies and insights back to our local YMCA, directly benefiting the children, teens, and families we serve in Westchester and Putnam counties.
Through their participation, Shannon and Kayla will focus on:
- Enhancing program quality
- Strengthening staff support
- Promoting mental wellness
- Expanding equitable access.
Their work will ensure that every teen and child can thrive in environments where they feel safe, valued, and empowered. By sharing their expertise and learning from peers nationwide, they are helping to shape the future of YMCA programs while reflecting our core values of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.
We are proud to see our YMCA leaders recognized for their dedication, vision, and commitment to youth development. Shannon and Kayla’s leadership exemplifies the YMCA mission: to provide spaces where children and teens can belong, achieve, and build meaningful relationships. We look forward to seeing the impact of their work on our programs and in the lives of the young people we serve.
Please join us in congratulating Shannon and Kayla on this exciting achievement and in supporting their continued efforts to strengthen and innovate YMCA programming for the next generation.