Meet YMCA Counselor: Erika G.

Throughout history, YMCAs have been committed to the communities they serve. this remains true today as YMCAs everywhere support their communities during the COVID-19

Within weeks of Montana's first confirmed positive COVID-19 case, the Missoula Y opened two emergency childcare sites. Led by a team of dedicated staff, these sites serve children of Missoula's essential service workforce.

One of the staff is EMT student Erika G. Originally from Madison, WI, Erika moved to Missoula to pursue a wilderness EMT certification through Aerie Backcountry Medicine. When the Y was looking for emergency childcare providers, she was quick to offer her skills.

Erika currently works alongside three other staff, caring for children of first responders and medical workers.

"I've had 10 years of experience working at Y camps throughout the country. However, this is my first time working in an emergency childcare setting. I wasn't sure what to expect," she said. "Since starting, I've discovered that our emergency childcare program embraces the fun spirit of camp, with a few added safety measures."

Additional safety measures include strict rules around group size, health checks for both kids and staff throughout the day, and frequent handwashing and cleaning of surfaces. Games and activities are designed to encourage social distancing, and schedules are structured to keep the same staff and kids interacting from week to week.

Much of the program, though, is similar to a typical camp day—lots of silly songs, games, and activities that keep the kids engaged and active.

"Right now, I'm working with incredible educators who are kind and compassionate," she says. "It's been a great experience to work alongside them as we care for these children especially during these uncertain times.”

"As people, we can positively impact others in so many ways," adds Erika. "I want to be that person when someone calls 9-1-1 needing an EMT and I want to be that person at the Y when a kid needs a role model."

This story was originally published in April 2020.