teens

Even while outside of their branches, teens remain passionate and dedicated to their YMCA. With the new remote learning environments, Y teens have taken initiative and have continued to participate in their programs with more vigor than ever. Especially with programs like Teens Take the City.

Throughout the year, Y teens across the city have been actively engaging and participating in activities to help educate and mobilize the next generation of voters and civic leaders.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the Y. They’ve helped me with college applications. I’ve done community service projects. It’s the shoulder I need to keep me up. A safe zone where you can be yourself. The YMCA is a way of life.

I used to be the shy, quiet girl. The Y helped me break out of my comfort zone and give me the confidence that I could be whatever I want. As a human being, you have to feel like you belong somewhere. I belong at the YMCA.

Over 100 Y teens gathered in the Chambers of City Hall to debate key community issues at the 14th Annual Teens Take the City event.

Every day, the Y celebrates the educators that ensure our city’s youth are safe during the after-school hours. We asked some dedicated staff to share their favorite thing about being involved in afterschool programs at the Y.

Sleepaway Camp encourages kids to move outside their comfort zone, try new things, and master skills beyond the everyday. Learn how to prepare your child for a fantastic summer away from home!

It’s a big year for New York City’s YMCA camp in Huguenot, which celebrates 100 years in 2018.

It’s been over a year since I arrived from Afghanistan. At the beginning it was hard — you have to learn the language to understand people. After I went to Y events and made new friends, I learned how to communicate better.