https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Flw76XHk_ZU
As her mom Jennifer Record describes her, 7-year old Joy was once a very shy little girl who struggled in school with her reading. Last summer, a recommendation from school led Joy to the local YMCA summer reading program.
Finding this program did much more than help Joy improve her reading skills. Involvement in the Tampa, Florida Y gave her courage to come out of her shell and to let people know about the hardship that she, her mom, and brother, were facing.
After watching the above video, it is hard to believe Joy was ever a shy child. Today, her confidence is contagious. She loves reading and writing, and regularly reads books to her brother.
See more stories of people who have overcome obstacles at the YMCA website.