Why Taylor Chooses to Give | Thanks For Giving

For Taylor, camp has always been a place of learning, growth and connection. It is where young people discover new strengths, build lasting friendships and learn they are capable of more than they thought. 

She sees it happen every summer. At the start of the summer, campers arrive nervous and unsure of themselves.  

A few days later, they're trying something new, making friends and stepping into challenges with confidence. 

"You see their heads come up," Taylor says. "They become more confident. They make eye contact. They talk more. You see this young person transform." 

Watching those moments unfold reminds Taylor why camp matters and also, it reminds her why she donates. 

"I really believe in what camp does," she says. "When you believe in something, you want to be part of supporting it." 

Taylor contributes through YMCA Calgary’s employee giving program because she knows every gift helps create opportunities for young people to learn, grow and thrive in the outdoors and within the camp community. 

She is also quick to point out that generosity is not about the size of a donation. 

"No donation is too small," she says. "Give what you can, not what you think you should." 

Taylor believes that some of the most meaningful things happen when people come together and contribute in whatever way they can. 

"Alone, you can only do so much. Together, we can do so much more." 

That belief shapes the way she thinks about philanthropy. Every gift is an expression of care, and every donor helps to make camp stronger.  

For Taylor, giving is rooted in gratitude. Gratitude for the experiences she has had, the people she has met and the community that continues to have such an important place in her life. 

"I choose to give to camp so that everyone can have the experience," she says. 

Taylor is one of many generous donors whose support helps young people discover confidence, connection and belonging at Camp Chief Hector YMCA. 

And while she may never know exactly which camper benefits from her gift, she knows why she gives. 

Because camp has given so much to her.