Service Learning

The YMCA creates opportunities for teens to give of themselves to help others, with a target of 50 service hours each year.

Leaders Club

A nationally recognized core YMCA teen program provides participants with opportunities for leadership training, personal growth, service to others and social development. Teens meet on a weekly basis in small groups, working closely with their peers and an adult advisor on skill and character building activities, as well as planning and organizing projects with an emphasis on educational success, community service and goal-setting. Leaders Club helps more than 1,900 teens ages 11-19 find the leader within. Find your Leaders Club.

Teens Take the City

Builds on the YMCA’s rich tradition of engaging young people in public service by introducing youth to the workings of the American democratic process with a focus on city government. Group lessons and activities prepare teens for participation and leadership in the political process as well as fostering responsible citizenship through increased awareness of social issues. Teens Take the City engages more than 900 teens ages 11-19 in taking an active role in solving issues facing their community. Learn more.

Youth & Government

This 70-year-old nationwide YMCA core program focuses on the study of public issues, public policy, legislation and the state governmental process. Teens work as youth jurists, attorneys, legislators and members of the press. Youth & Government introduces more than 600 kids ages 11-19 to policymaking at the local and state level. Learn more.

Global Teens

With first-hand experience and understanding of the diversity and interdependence among the world’s people—and common issues and challenges—Global Teens participants spend two weeks in international service learning and cultural exchange. Each year in collaboration with over a dozen YMCAs across the world, Global Teens engages more than 150 New York City teenagers in a powerful journey of discovery. Learn more.

Teen Center

Offered one or more evenings a week as a fun, safe place for teens to socialize, exercise and have positive interaction with peers and YMCA counselors. The Centers are open to teens from local communities and offer activities such as sports, fitness, arts and discussion groups. Teen Centers encourage more than 6,500 teens ages 11-18 interact in a safe and positive social setting on weekend nights. Find your local YMCA Teen Center.