Y Achievers
Prepare for college and connect with helpful mentors!
The YMCA Achievers program is a national college readiness program designed to help teens through academic support, career exploration, and mentoring. The Y Achievers program encourages teens to raise their academic standards, and explore a variety college and career options. Teens also develop a positive sense of self, build character, and interact with professionals who serve as role models. Meetings times and dates will vary by branch location in the Greater Philadelphia area and include field trips such as campus tours and industry visits.
Whether you're exploring college, trade school, the military, or career training, Y Achievers gives middle and high school students the tools, support, and confidence to build a successful future.
Program Details
Y Achievers programs vary based on the branch, but program participants can expect to meet weekly for approximately 2 hours. Additionally, programming will include weekend trips to local colleges, universities, industries, and businesses.
Opportunities for Students
- Explore college and career pathways
- Build leadership, communication, and professional skills
- Receive support with college applications, financial aid, scholarships, and career preparation
- Connect with mentors, professionals, and other motivated students
- Participate in college tours, career exposure opportunities, guest-speaker sessions, trips, and special events
- Strengthen their confidence, goal-setting, and decision-making skills
- Prepare for life after high school through engaging, hands-on experiences
How to get involved!
Registration is required to participate in and attend Achievers events and programs. Students can look forward to the following major events.
- December/January: Philly Big 5 College Tour
- March: Spring College Trip
- May: Capstone Showcase
- July: Achievers Summit @ YMCA Blue Ridge, NC
This is a free program; however, some opportunities may incur an expense for travel and accommodation. Fill out an Interest Form by clicking the button below and our staff will contact you with information about programming near you!
Y Achievers Program Locations
Find a program location at one of our Y branches where your student can get involved in Y Achievers programming.
Ambler YMCA
1325 McKean Road, Ambler, PA 19002
Wednesdays from 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM (Starting October 7)
Christian Street YMCA
1724 Christian Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
Tuesdays from 6:15 PM - 7:30 PM (Starting October 6)
Columbia North YMCA
1400 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19121
Thursdays from 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM (Starting October 8)
Haverford Area YMCA
891 North Eagle Road, Havertown, PA 19083
Wednesdays from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM (Starting October 7)
Mount Laurel YMCA
59 Centerton Road, Mount Laurel Township, NJ 08054
Thursdays from 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM (Starting October 8)
Northeast Family YMCA
11088 Knights Road, Philadelphia, PA 19154
Thursdays from 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Starting October 8)
School Partners
The Y is proud to partner with the following schools to offer Y Achievers programming for their students.
Is transportation available?
For many events, transportation can be provided; however, advanced sign up is necessary for determining transportation needs.
Are the major events open to Y Achievers at all branches?
Yes! Our major events are open to interested teens and families in addition to Y Achievers participants.
When can I register for Y Achievers?
Registration is now open and will close in June. Please find your local chapter above for registration info.