Celebrating One Year of Partnership: YMCA of Metro Denver & The Excel Center

This September, we proudly celebrate one year of partnership between the YMCA of Metro Denver and The Excel Center, Colorado’s first Goodwill Excel Center. Through this collaboration, the Y provides high-quality, on-site child care to adult learners through the Adventure Center program — making education more accessible for parents who are returning to the classroom.

Building Foundations for Success

Before stepping into her role as Schlessman Y Academy Director, Shanla Arellano oversaw the Adventure Center and helped establish the program’s strong foundation. She witnessed firsthand the transformation this support brought to families.

“Even just having that support made a difference,” Shanla shared. “Some of our parents were stay-at-home moms or individuals who hadn’t finished high school. With the Y’s encouragement and flexibility, they found the confidence to take the next step.”

The Adventure Center helps remove one of the biggest barriers to education — access to safe, trusted child care. With their children nearby and thriving, parents are able to stay focused and motivated in their learning.

Continuing to Grow

Today, the program continues to flourish under the leadership of Jayme Sirko.

“It is our mission to support students in the classroom and be a supportive presence for parents and guardians,” Jayme said. “This family partnership is very unique, as this is the first Goodwill Excel Center in Colorado. The Excel Center is an amazing opportunity for an adult student to get access to education and have access to free child care where they feel at home.”

Learning Through Play

At the Adventure Center, children engage in monthly themed activities designed to inspire curiosity and joy. Using a play-based learning approach, classrooms act as a third teacher, supporting development in:

• Writing & Literacy
• Math & Science
• Motor Skills
• Social-Emotional Growth
• Art & Music
• Manipulative Exploration

Parents have peace of mind knowing their children are close, safe, and experiencing meaningful learning each day.

One Year Strong — and Just Getting Started

This partnership is a testament to what is possible when organizations unite around community needs. Together, the YMCA of Metro Denver and The Excel Center are creating pathways for entire families to succeed — supporting adult learners as they work toward their goals and ensuring their children have a nurturing place to learn and grow.

Learn more: Early Childhood Education or Out of School Time Care.