Supporting Teens at the Y
At the YMCA, we support teens as they grow, gain independence and discover their potential. Through programs like Y Achievers, the 7th Grade Initiative and VolunTEEN, we empower youth to set goals, build confidence and make a positive impact in their communities. Together, we’re helping teens explore their passions, develop life skills and find purpose for the future.
Y Achievers | Grades 5 - 12
Y Achievers empowers teens and pre-teens to set and achieve educational and career goals through mentorship and skill-building workshops that build character and emphasize the value of education. Learn More.
Youth & Government | High School
Upcoming 2026 PA Model Convention Conference | April 16 - 19, 2026 in Harrisburg. Learn More.
The YMCA of Greater Brandywine’s Youth & Government Program helps high school students develop leadership skills, improve critical thinking and give back to their community. Next session starts October 22, 2025.
7th Grade Initiative | Grade 7
7th Grade Initiative helps 7th graders build healthy habits, learn new skills, develop wellness routines and connect with peers in a safe, supervised environment outside of school. The program offers fitness activities, volunteer opportunities, special events and more. It is free to participate! Learn More.
Young Men Thriving Initiative | Ages 11-17
Young Men Thriving Initiative empowers boys and young men of color ages 11–17 through mentorship, supportive services and safe spaces to grow. The program builds confidence, supports academic and social-emotional success, and prepares participants for future education, careers and lifelong opportunity.
VolunTEEN | Grades 6 - 12
Teen Volunteer Opportunities gives youth in grades 6–12 meaningful ways to get involved, give back and build leadership skills at the Y. As part of our teen programs—including Y Achievers and the 7th Grade Initiative—VolunTEEN offers hands-on service opportunities that help teens grow, connect and make a positive impact in their community.
Teen Trek Summer Camp | Ages 12 - 15
This is the perfect camp for your teen! They will take field trips Tuesday through Friday each week. Have adventures and make memories throughout their entire summer.
Daily Teen Room Schedules
Teen Rooms are available to any teen member of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine - Now Available at Coatesville, Jennersville and Upper Main Line YMCA
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Teen Empowerment
Teen Independence
Teen Community
Y Achievers is an education-focused mentoring program designed to empower pre-teens and teens to set and achieve meaningful academic and career goals. Through supportive mentorship, skill-building workshops and hands-on learning experiences, the program helps young people grow academically, build character and understand the value of education.
Program Highlights
Supportive mentorship and positive role models
Skill-building workshops focused on academic and personal growth
Exposure to diverse college and career pathways
Hands-on learning experiences and real-world skill development
Meaningful community service opportunities
Focus on character development and cultural competence
Builds confidence, self-awareness and academic success
Program Details
Open to youth in Grades 5–12
Free to participate
Includes a FREE Youth Membership
Offered at the Coatesville and Jennersville YMCA
Open to all interested youth across Chester County
Participants do not need to belong to these branches (transportation required if not your home branch)
We are excited to bring Y Achievers to our Coatesville and Jennersville communities and look forward to supporting and inspiring the continued growth and success of local youth.
Young Men Thriving Initiative
The Young Men Thriving Initiative is an empowering strategy designed to foster positive change for boys and young men of color, nurturing their potential and shaping their futures. This strategy ensures better outcomes for boys and young men of color ages 11-17 by removing systemic barriers, providing relevant services and support systems, and creating nurturing environments that promote confidence and growth.
Young Men Thriving Initiative — Key Goals & Outcomes
Expand Opportunity: Increase access to programs that support educational, personal and workforce development.
High-Quality Learning: 70% of participants engage in culturally responsive, high-quality programs.
Academic Success: 70% improve grades, attendance and behavior.
Social-Emotional Growth: 100% complete pre- and post- social-emotional self-assessments.
Future Pathways: By 9th grade, participants are connected to strong post-secondary and career opportunities.
Program Impact
Addresses systemic barriers that contribute to generational poverty.
Promotes belonging, wellbeing, education, character and career readiness.
Builds confidence, skills and meaningful connections through supportive relationships.
Prepares young men to thrive, strengthen their communities and advance equity.
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Learn more about local Mental Health Services at Chester County MHIDD
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Register for Trainings Today - Chester County Mental Health First Aid Training
If you’re raising a teen:
- you may wonder how you can guide them while giving them their independence.
- help them find a greater purpose with a career at the Y
- guide them through sports and teach them about sportsmanship
- educate teens on healthy weight and health risks.
Jazmyn Hudson
Senior Association Director, Teen Development
AmandaGrace Krier
Director of Teen Development
Jennersville YMCA
Anne Richardson
Director of Teen Development
Upper Main Line YMCA
Mentorship for Teens
At YGBW, we're embarking on a journey to ensure that teens in our community see their own strengths and potential. Through our Y Achievers program and 7th Grade Initiative, we provide local teens and pre-teens with mentorship, volunteerism and resources to support their health and career goals.
The Leaders in Training (LIT) and Counselors in Training (CIT) programs help middle and high school students develop leadership skills through weekly training, hands-on experience, and guided mentorship. While LITs focus on building foundational leadership traits, CITs take on deeper responsibilities, including child engagement and performance evaluations, with a multi-week commitment offering the most benefit.
ESports
The Metro Esports Gaming Lounge is open seven days per week inside the Oscar Lasko YMCA. We offer FREE Open Play for YGBW Members - PLUS programs for youth and teens, day camps, tournaments, birthday parties and more!
Teens & Mental Health
Mental Health starts with your thoughts - which affect how you feel and ultimately how you act. It also impacts your relationship with others and your physical health too. Discover the importance of social connection in your community or learn more below about mental health resources.
Teen Talk Line (PDF) | NAMI Resource Directory (PDF)
Find More Opportunities for Teens at the Y
Teen Camps
Designed just for teens to strike a balance between structure and independence.
Arts & Humanities
Formative programs for the formative years at the YMCA.
Swim Team
Join the team! Competitive swim teams are available at six YMCA branches.
Sports
Sports help develop confidence and teamwork while encouraging an active lifestyle.
Jobs & Careers
Build your experiences, abilities and creativity at the Y!
Thank You to Our Sponsors
