Birthday wishes include helping others

The Gift of the Y
11-year-old Audra Hamelin of Nashua celebrated her birthday in a different way this year. She asked her friends to donate to the Y’s annual campaign instead of bringing gifts for her to her birthday party. “When I come through the doors of the Y, I see the sign that says ‘every gift matters, because every kid matters’ and it made me think. I like to dance and I want other kids to have that experience. I want to pass on my good fortune to others.”
The Y has been a part of Audra’s life for 7 years. She describes the Y as “a place that helps people grow in health and kindness.” At age 11, Audra has experienced much of what the Y offers. “I’ve done ballet, lyrical dance, performance dance, Irish step, and spent three summers at Camp Sargent. I also learned to swim here.” Audra is also a member of the Y’s In-Motion Dance Team.
“This was such a touching story that we wanted to share it with the community. Audra will be starting middle school this fall. Audra’s friends at the Y wish her a great school year ahead. With her big heart, she’s already making a difference, and we are so happy that she is a Y member,” said Elizabeth Covino, director of community relations.