Be a leader, find your passion, challenge yourself, learn new skills - the Y offers many programs for teens where they can experience a variety of career, college, and civic engagement pathways.
We develop and manage social responsibility programs across Philadelphia & Montgomery County that enhance the life and well-being of teens throughout our area by providing high-quality, impact-focused programs that expose teens to new opportunities, new perspectives, and new skill development offerings to help prepare them for their future.
Y Achievers
The Achievers Program is the YMCA’s flagship college preparation and career readiness program. Each week, teens learn more about themselves and how they can make their mark in an ever-changing landscape while exploring options for after graduation.
Program Outcomes:
- Participants will gain exposure to opportunities and activities that help prepare them for their futures.
- Achievers attend weekly and monthly events ranging from skill building to college and industry tours.
Youth Civic Engagement (YCE)
YCE encourages students to become active, informed, and engaged citizens. Students will learn about advocating for positive change in their community, systems of government, the democratic process, and so much more! Participation in YCE includes our Model UN program and Youth & Government program.
Program Outcomes:
- Develop leadership, public speaking, critical thinking, collaboration, and conflict resolution skills.
- Learn best practices for research, writing, and drafting factual arguments.
- Expand knowledge of local, state, federal, and international systems of government.
Teen Workforce Development
The YMCA’s Teen Workforce Development Program equips teens with the skills, experiences, and connections needed to succeed in the workplace and beyond. Through hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to career opportunities, participants build a strong foundation for their futures.
Program Outcomes:
- Participants will develop critical professional and interpersonal skills that prepare them for future employment and career success.
- Teens engage in activities like job shadowing, career coaching, and skill-building workshops, as well as gain exposure to industries through summer jobs, internships, and corporate partnerships.
Out of School Time
The Out of School Time (OST) Program is an after-school program designed to allow teens to explore industries of interest, learn more about college and career opportunities and earn incentives through our partnership with the Philadelphia Youth Network. Interested participants must apply with their respective site directors at participating high schools.
Program Outcomes:
- Provides teens a safe environment to explore college and career pathways in a fun, engaging way.
- Students will participate in various workshops, earn money through incentive-based activities, and go on trips that expand their perspectives beyond high school.
Teen Tech Center
The Teen Tech Center (TTC) is a partnership between the YMCA, Best Buy, and Clubhouse Network designed to expose teens to new and cutting-edge technologies in a relaxed and fun environment. Teens are encouraged to learn by playing to discover if a career in technology could be in their future! Registration is not required, but you must sign up and sign in upon arrival. The TTC is located on the 2nd floor of the Columbia North YMCA.
Program Outcomes:
- Exposure to state-of-the-art technology.
- Increased skill development.
- Develop connections with industry professionals that are able to bridge the gap between learning and doing in a fun and engaging environment.
Conference on National Affairs
The YMCA Conference on National Affairs (CONA) occurs at the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly in Black Mountain, North Carolina. CONA brings together high school students from across the country to debate and collaborate on proposals about national and international issues. This program requires students to first participle in NJ YAG.
Program Outcomes:
- Learn best practices for research and drafting bill proposals.
- Develop public speaking, negotiation, debate, and conflict resolution skills.
- Gain leadership skills and abilities, learn how to collaborate, and communicate effectively.
- Expand knowledge of the state legislative process.
Become a Volunteer
Strong volunteers help to make our programs great! If you are interested in working with teens to improve their leadership skills, challenge themselves, and make new connections we have opportunities for you!
We are seeking volunteers for our Achievers, Model United Nations, and Youth and Government programs. Learn more about the roles and submit your interest today.