Y Achievers

Y Achievers is a program that was built on the notion that community and corporate involvement are critical to building networks and opportunities for youth, especially those from underserved communities.  The goal of the Y Achievers program is to motivate minority youth to set education and career goals. To that end, the program centers on the relationships established between volunteer mentors and youth through specialized career development networks and workshops.

Youth and teens, by nature are ...
 

Teens, by nature are struggling to define their identities.  The Y Achievers program taps into this natural curiosity to connect youth with adult role models with similar cultural and racial backgrounds in an effort to help guide the youth and teens toward bright and secure future. 

The core component of the program is relationship building between the volunteer Adult Achievers and the Teen Achievers during career cluster workshops.  Clusters workshops are dedicated to specific areas of professional interest.  Teen Achievers work with Adult Mentors, who are experts in their fields, to complete projects that are designed to provide students an opportunity to explore their career interest through real-life applications of skills.

Get Involved With Y Achievers
 

Teen Achievers

The Y Achievers program is open to youth in middle and/or high school from all social, economic and academic levels.  The program is offered at free of charge and Teen Achievers are eligible for a discounted YMCA membership.  Teen Achievers must submit an application, along with a copy of their most recent report card.  The only requirement for youth participation in the Y Achievers program is a desire to succeed in school and pursue an advanced academic education.

Adult Achievers

Volunteer Adult Achievers are crucial to the on-going success of the Y Achievers program. Adult Achievers are often nominated for the Y Achievers program by their employers and/or colleagues.   Responsibilties of an Adult Achievers include facilitating workshops and career clusters, mentoring, providing career advice and hosting a worksite tour.  Adult Achiever volunteers demonstrate high standards in both their personal and professional lives, and possess the desire to inspire young adults. 

Adult Achievers are crucial to the success of the Y Achievers program. Working in the capacity of a volunteer mentor/meeting leader, Adult Achievers lead meetings, group discussions and related events, as well as build strong relationships with our youth and teens.

If you are interested in volunteering with Y Achievers at any program level, please contact Kelly Sheard, Advanced Program Director, at (215) 884-9622 ext 1865, or ksheard@philaymca.org