When Saira immigrated to California from El Salvador at just 12 years old, she never imagined that one day the YMCA would shape not only her own life, but the lives of her children, nieces, nephews, and community. At the time, she had never even heard of the idea of volunteering—let alone done it herself. In the struggling country she left behind, giving time to serve others wasn’t something Saira had been exposed to.
But in her new home, she started to notice something different.
As a teen, Saira watched her friends return from weeklong trips to the mountains every summer, full of stories about adventure, friendship, and self-discovery. Curious, she asked how they got to go. The answer was simple: “Go to the Y.”
There was just one problem—her family didn’t have the money. Her mother, raising six children on a modest income, had little room in the budget for summer camp. Still, Saira didn’t let that stop her.
She asked the staff at the Y how she could make it happen. At the time, one of the ways teens could earn access to camp was through volunteering*. “If you’re a committed volunteer, that’s a way to get to camp,” they told her.
And so, she volunteered. She put in the hours, showed up, and gave her best. Year after year, her dedication earned her a spot at camp—a place where she found joy, growth, and belonging. Camp wasn’t just a getaway; it became a foundation.
After some time away to pursue her college education, Saira never forgot what the Y gave her. When she returned, it was not just as a participant, but as a professional. She joined the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angeles as a staff member, working at branches including Downey, Ketchum, East LA Weingart, and others—wherever help was needed, she was there.
Through it all, Saira passed that same spirit on to her children. Her son grew up immersed in Y programs—sports, youth activities, and even camp, just like his mom. Her daughter, too, would grow up in a home rooted in service and community. Saira extended opportunities to her nieces and nephews through financial assistance scholarships, creating memories that are still shared around the dinner table today—stories of fun, learning, and transformation.
Eventually, Saira stepped away from her role at the Y to focus on raising her children. But the commitment to giving back didn’t stop. She has remained active in her community through prayer, service, and unwavering support for those around her.
She credits the Y—and especially the volunteers and donors who make its work possible—for changing the course of her life.
“I thank the Y and all its dedicated volunteers and funders for continuing its commitment to community and fostering opportunities for all,” she says, “whether it be a successful CEO or a struggling individual.”
Today, her legacy lives on through her son, who now serves as the Associate Executive Director of the South Pasadena San Marino YMCA. He is carrying forward the same values he saw modeled in his mother: service, perseverance, and a deep love for community.
Saira’s story is a powerful reminder of what happens when a single opportunity is given—and when someone chooses to give back in return. It’s the story of one woman’s journey from newcomer to leader, from camper to community builder, and from volunteer to the heart of a generational legacy.
Because of the Y, Saira found her place. Because of Saira, so many others have too.
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* Today, thanks to generous donors and community support, the Y now offers financial assistance to ensure that all children and families—regardless of income—can access the life-changing experience of camp and other youth programs. What was once a path through volunteering is now supported through intentional equity-focused funding.