Meet Our Directors
Jackie Pentecharsky
Executive Director
Jackie.Pentecharsky@philaymca.org
Jackie became a part of the Camp Speers YMCA team in 2019 as the Director of Outdoor Education and Group Services. She comes to Speers with 12 years of experience as a public school teacher and 20 years working and volunteering with resident and day camp programs with Girl Scout camps in Pennsylvania. She’s worked in many areas of camp, starting in the kitchen then working at the barn, as a general counselor, program director and camp director. Jackie is excited about merging her passions for teaching and the outdoors to help expand the outdoor education program at Camp Speers. Some of Jackie’s favorite things to do at camp are horseback riding, kayaking, and climbing. Jackie’s camp goal is to help each camper leave knowing they are important and can make a difference in the world.
Dan Paola
Facilities Director
Dpaola@philaymca.org
Dan began his adventure at Camp Speers YMCA at the age of 5 when he attended our family camp with his family. He continued as a camper and eventually worked as a counselor. Dan returned to Camp Speers in 2014 with over 25 years of construction, property and project management experience. His role as the Facilities Director involves overseeing the day to day running of the property and helping care for camp so it can continue to run smoothly. Dan says the best part of camp these days is simply to see everyone having so much fun. Dan’s goal for Camp Speers is make sure the property is well kept so that the great work and fun can continue.
Dani Robbins
Camp Director
Dani.Robbins@philaymca.org
Dani fell in love with camp at a young age and has been committed to summer camp and youth development ever since. She began her camping career at age 17 and has worked at a variety of non-profit resident and day camps throughout that time. Dani loves all aspects of camp, including marketing, facilities, and logistics. She is proud to be part of Camp Speers because of its rich history, commitment to diversity and inclusion, values system, and family feel. Here at camp, you can find Dani leading songs at campfire, making announcements during meals, hiking, and doing her best to get to know each and every camper!
Anna Reese
Camp Director
Anna.Reese@philaymca.org
Anna started attending summer camp in NJ as a young girl and never stopped. After many summers on the camp leadership team, she completed an internship in Youth Programming and went on to be a year-round camp leader at various camps across the US. Anna loves creating spaces for campers and staff to experience the great outdoors. Her favorite camp activities are swimming, high ropes, and hiking. Her goal for Camp Speers is to make sure every staff member and camper feel supported while having fun & achieving their goals. Anna hopes every camper goes home with a friend for life and a love for camp!