Teen Programs

Our teen programs include:

Y-Achievers

Y-Achievers is committed to enhancing academic, personal and career goals of high school students from diverse backgrounds. The group brings students and adult role models together to help students succeed in school and learn marketable skills. The program includes career cluster sessions, study skills, team building, communication training and field trips to colleges and professional work places.

YMCA Youth & Government

Democracy must be learned by each generation. Each September for six months, more than 2,000 high school sophomores, juniors and seniors throughout California learn first-hand how our state government works—not by watching, but by doing! The model legislature is at the heart of the program, but the preparation of teams right here in our YMCA locations is crucial to developing content and strategy for the trip to our State Capitol in Sacramento. Then there are the dances, elections, talent shows, and socializing—also part of what makes this a great experience.

Service Learning

Teens are a great resource in our community. They have talents and energy. They care about others. The YMCA has always depended upon teens to provide leadership with younger kids. Teens participate in leadership development classes and volunteer in their communities. Some choose to work on special projects while others coach basketball or teach swim lessons.

Teen Centers

Teen Centers provide a safe and fun place for teens Afterschool. Our Teen Center coordinators and volunteers provide teens guidance in participating in a variety of programs offered at the YMCA. Teen Centers include a place for studying and homework help, as well as fun recreational activities and opportunities to socialize with other teens Afterschool and during special evening and weekend events.