Teen Programs

Do Great Things

Teens want to Do Great Things. The Y creates opportunities for them to strengthen their communities, build healthier futures and grow as leaders—because when teens thrive, everyone benefits.

Through programs focused on resilience, leadership, character and career readiness, the Y helps young people reach their full potential.

Teen Programs

From civic engagement, to leadership development, we offer a variety of programs designed to help develop skills that teens can use beyond school and in life.

Leaders Club

Make a difference through YMCA Leaders Club, a leadership development community service program that helps teens discover their full potential.

Lightner Y Achievers

The Lightner Y Achievers program introduces teens to adults who guide students in grades 6 - 12 through experiences that prepare them for life after high school.

Youth and Government participants speaking at conference

Youth & Government

YMCA Youth and Government is a civics program that prepares high school students for civic and political leadership. Students join local YMCA clubs or school delegations.

Work at the Y

Teens ages 16 & up can also get real-world experience while earning a paycheck as a part-time YMCA staff member in roles like camp counselor, lifeguard and more.

Explore Jobs

Teen Directors

For more information about Teen Programs at your branch, contact the Teen Director.

A.E. Finley YMCA: Shelley Busbee Nichols
Alexander Family YMCA: Mikayla Escamilla
Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA: Chandler Briggs
East Triangle YMCA: Thomas Jackson Glenn III
Kerr Family YMCA: Kate Revels
Kraft Family YMCA: Morgan Collington
Northwest Cary YMCA: Jaylen Powell
Poole Family YMCA: Noah Franklin
Taylor Family YMCA: Julie Barnes-Delgado