Frequently Asked Questions about the Y-CAP program

What is Y-CAP? (The "CAP" stands for Community Action Program)

Y-CAP redirects youth (10–15 years old) behavior by teaching values and rebuilding families. It is a:

• Faith-based program that includes the entire family during which youth remain in their own homes.
• Program that emphasizes four specific values—caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
• Program whose primary goal is to help youth become productive members of the community.

Are Y-CAP youth referred into the program?

Yes. For example, youth may be referred into the program by school professionals because of truancy, poor academic performance, behavior issues or family situation. Juvenile court may refer a youth in situations concerning a first-time minor offense. Y-CAP also accepts referrals from other community organizations.

Is Y-CAP effective?

Yes. The statistics for July 2007–June 2008 show that Y-CAP is very effective:

• 66% of Y-CAP program participants have demonstrated improved academic performance
• 87% of Y-CAP program participants have demonstrated improvement in or maintenance of satisfactory school attendance
• 63% of Y-CAP program participants have demonstrated improved behavior in school or maintenance of satisfactory conduct

Source: Y-CAP Branch YMCA Program Effectiveness Statistics (July 2007–June 2008)

"I know of no other early intervention program that is as effective as Y-CAP."
—Mr. Frank Drowota, Former Tennessee Supreme Court Justice

What does the Y-CAP program consist of?

Y-CAP staff and volunteers provide growth and learning opportunities in a supportive environment. Y-CAP staff assist families in the building of a "family development plan" to address needs of the Y-CAP youth and needs within the home. Home visits and other services are provided based on the individual needs of the youth and their family. Crisis intervention is available 24/7.

What areas are served by Y-CAP?

Y-CAP currently serves youth and families in Memphis, Tenn., and DeSoto County, Miss.

Who has been paying for this program, and why does Y-CAP need my donation today?

The State of Tennessee provided start-up funds for the program. Funds are needed now to help continue this program and allow it to grow. Funds will be used to support existing and new programs. Y-CAP is part of the YMCA, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Donations are tax-deductible. Please consult your tax advisor.

Is Y-CAP affiliated with the YMCA?

Yes. Y-CAP is a branch of the YMCA of Memphis & the Mid-South, and it fits very well with the YMCA mission of putting Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. The YMCA works to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. The YMCA is for men, women and children of all ages, races and social/religious backgrounds.

For more information, contact the Y-CAP Branch YMCA at 901.458.9622.

If you'd like to give your support to the Y-CAP to help at-risk youth become productive members of the community, donate.