BACK

Teen Programming

Strengthen Skills. Build Confidence. Empower Teens.

From improving academic performance to fostering connections with peers to shaping the leaders of tomorrow, the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s teen programs are dedicated to empowering youth to become the best versions of themselves. 

Teen Mentorship Program

Funded by the Chicago Department of Family & Support Services, our Teen Mentorship Program helps teens and young adults gain tools that support success in school, work, and life. We connect teens with YMCA program staff. Together, they’ll explore lifelong skills, including time management, financial literacy, navigating life’s big transitions, and more. The Teen Mentorship Program meets one day a week at the McCormick YMCA and South Side YMCA.  

CONTACT US

Teen Leaders Club

Interested in shaping your community and making the world a better place? Our Teen Leaders Club is a teen-led group that empowers and guides the next generation of leaders. Teens and young adults meet regularly at the Irving Park YMCA and choose projects based on the interests and passions of the group, with support from an adult advisor. Join Teen Leaders Club and make your voice heard! 

CONTACT US

Safe Spaces: My Chi, My Future

Kickstart a future in community building! Hosted at the Kelly Hall YMCA, the Safe Spaces: My Chi, My Future program helps youth find local jobs and plan events, fostering time management, accountability, responsibility, and project management skills. In addition to working 20 hours a week for one year, participants will also plan and host three neighborhood events. 

CONTACT US

Reimagine Programs

Our Reimagine programs provide new opportunities for youth who have been justice-involved or whose families have been justice-involved. Programming opens new avenues for participants, building safer neighborhoods through constructive community engagement.
  • Boys sitting in gymnasium

    Reimagine Youth Development Program

    Participants of our Reimagine Youth Development take part in civic engagement, build life skills, and join fitness groups at the Kelly Hall YMCA, Rauner Family YMCA, and McCormick YMCA. Youth can join at any time of year and will receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.
    Contact Us
  • Group of boys playing basketball

    Reimagine Public Safety Act Program

    Participants of our Reimagine Public Safety Act program lead efforts to prevent gun violence through the lens of case management, a process of connecting community members to essential resources. Hosted at the Rauner Family YMCA and within the community, participants receive holistic support to plan and execute personalized initiatives.
    Contact Us

After School Matters Cheer Program

Hosted at the Kelly Hall YMCA, After School Matters Cheer gathers youth from Humboldt Park and the surrounding areas in a high-energy space to build confidence, engage in fitness activities, and grow as leaders. Open to all genders, this seasonal program fosters an environment where every participant can shine. 

Contact Us

Upcoming Events

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, Kenosha YMCA, Racine Family YMCA, and YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee are collaborating to host the first Annual Teen Summit, bringing our youth in grades 6 to 12 together for a day of networking and learning at the Kenosha Emerging Leaders Academy. Teens — share your ideas about topics, breakout sessions, and activities via the link below! 

Share Your Ideas

Meet Your Teen Programming Leadership Team 

Say hello to the leaders who bring their own passion and enthusiasm to the YMCA every single day! 

  • Tara Brown

    Executive Director of Teen Programming

  • Jorge Pena

    Program Director

  • Marion Campbell

    Program Manager

  • Marlon Finley

    Program Director
  • These programs are all provided at no cost. Note that spots are not guaranteed and are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. 
  • All participants must be between the ages of 14 and 24. 
  • We’d love to hear from you! Please contact our Executive Director of Teen Programming, Tara Brown, via email.