I work at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee because I believe every young person deserves a safe place to grow, learn, and be seen for who they truly are. This work allows me to combine my passion for leadership, youth development, and building strong communities. Every day, I get to support staff who are shaping the next generation—helping them find their confidence, develop their voice, and realize their potential. The mission is personal to me, and the impact is real. Being part of something bigger than myself—where we’re creating opportunities, fostering resilience, and changing lives—is why I’m here.

My Camp Director, Michele Skarda, is someone who has had a significant influence on my life. She was my first supervisor, who taught me how to lead a group of girls and be a strong role model. We became close friends when I moved in with her for a few weeks to nanny for her infant and 6-year-old after she had surgery, and soon I felt like a part of the family. I became her Assistant Camp Director, and she was so open about teaching me how to run a camp.  Unfortunately, I also learned about caring for a friend and her family through the end-of-life stages of metastatic breast cancer, but I wouldn’t trade any of those days with her and her family. I still think “What would Michele do” in tough moments. She is a forever friend in my heart.

My advice to today’s youth is this: You are more powerful than you think. The world will try to tell you who you are or what you’re capable of—but don’t let it define you. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to fail forward. Every challenge you face is shaping your strength and resilience. Speak up for what matters, take care of your mental health, and remember: your voice, your story, and your choices matter. Keep showing up as your whole self—the world needs exactly that.

Camp Whitcomb/Mason is more than a summer camp—it’s a launchpad for confidence, connection, and emotional growth. Through outdoor adventures, creative expression, and supportive friendships, campers build life skills they carry home—strengthening youth, families, and communities for the long term.

What makes Camp so special is that it creates a world where kids can just be kids—fully, freely, and joyfully. It’s one of the few places where youth are unplugged from phones and distractions and deeply plugged into themselves, each other, and the natural world.