The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago Launches Inaugural “E-Sports Empowerment” Program with Verizon

The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago is thrilled to announce the launch of its new “E-Sports Empowerment” program, thanks to a generous grant from Verizon. This innovative initiative aims to advance digital equity through gaming education across the YMCA’s Tech Hubs. This exciting opportunity is open to enthusiastic youth in grades 9-12 and is provided at no cost; all necessary equipment will be supplied. 

The inaugural YMCA E-Sports Empowerment program will run from October 1 to December 17, with sessions held weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Rauner Family YMCA Tech Hub.  

Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will explore various e-sports career pathways, including team management, content creation, game design, development, and marketing. The program will also culminate in a Rocket League tournament. 

The YMCA of Metro Chicago is dedicated to strengthening community by connecting all people to their purpose, potential, and each other. The E-Sports Empowerment program aligns perfectly with this mission by providing youth with access to cutting-edge technology and educational opportunities. By fostering digital literacy and offering pathways into the growing field of e-sports, the YMCA is working to bridge the digital divide and empower the next generation of leaders. 

If you are interested in learning more about this exciting program, the Y's digital equity team is hosting two pop-up events to register youth participants on Wednesday, September 25, and Thursday, September 26 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Rauner Family YMCA Tech Hub. 

Interested youth can register using the form linked here. For more information, please email [email protected], visit our digital equity webpage, visit one of our six Tech Hubs. Join us in empowering the next generation through digital equity and innovation!