Helping youth develop a positive sense of self and set high career goals
YMCA Teen Achievers program motivates youth to succeed
The YMCA Teen Achievers program is a cooperative venture that marshals the resources of the home, the school, the corporate community and the YMCA to help young African-Americans develop a positive sense of self and set high education and career goals. Founded in 1971 at New York City's Harlem Y, the Teen Achievers program is also a national collegiate readiness initiative where Achievers are mentored by (volunteer) African-American professionals who act as role models and leaders.
The Davis Teen Achievers program serves Memphis City Schools, Shelby County and DeSoto County Schools.
The YMCA Teen Achievers program's objectives are:
- To help youth develop a positive sense of self
- To raise the academic standards of youth
- To expose students to diverse career options
- To provide positive role models for youth
- To recognize and promote excellence
- To create channels for continuing community involvement for business and industry
The YMCA Teen Achievers program benefits:
Youth are motivated to succeed in school and gain marketable skills.
Adults are recognized by their peers as achievers and are given the opportunity to serve as role models for youth.
Companies are provided with a way to support urban youth, which enhances their corporate image and helps build a future workforce of competent, motivated young adults.
YMCAs that sponsor Teen Achievers gain corporate support for their programs and a dynamic way to involve black professionals in meeting community needs as YMCA volunteers.
How does Teen Achievers help youth?
- Academic support
- Career exploration (weekend clusters)
- Career-related mentoring with successful role models
- Encouragement by adults who are successful and who share cultural similarities
Other helpful websites include:
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