YMCA of the Triangle

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FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Lightner Y Achievers

YMCA Annual Campaign: Give to LYA

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Empowering Resilient Teens

Clarence E. Lightner Y Achievers helps young people discover and pursue higher education and career goals by equipping them with the skills needed to succeed and be community role models. The program empowers resilient children and teens in grades 6–12 by connecting them with dedicated adult mentors who guide their journey beyond high school.

Donations to Y Achievers through the YMCA Annual Campaign help make the program accessible to families who otherwise couldn’t afford it.

The Clarence E. Lightner Y Achievers program introduces teens to adults who guide students in grades 6 - 12 through experiences that prepare them for life after high school. Through civic engagement, community service projects and academic enhancement programs, students make new friends, learn healthy lifestyle choices and prepare for their future.

Teens attend meetings where they are divided into small age-appropriate groups called clusters and are exposed to a variety of education and career options. Lightner Y Achievers also take part in volunteer opportunities and group outings. During our spring break college tour, high school students visit area universities and learn more about higher education options. 

Program Pillars

The Lightner Y Achievers program is built on five Program Pillars

  • Academic Success/College & Career Readiness
  • Civic Engagement
  • Leadership Development
  • Racial Equity
  • Healthy Living

Program Benefits

  • Visit local and out of state colleges during annual tours
  • Visit local companies and organizations for industry tours
  • Access to partial scholarships for senior participants
  • Life-long friendships with Achievers across the nation
  • Professional development
  • Leadership opportunities and trainings
  • Certified community service hours
  • Letters of recommendation

Annual Events

  • NC YMCA Youth & Government Conference
  • Annual College Tour
  • End of Year Celebration

Fees

Early Bird Registration: 6/15/25 - 9/15/25
$212/year for members
$265/year for program participants

Regular Registration: Begins on 9/16/25
$217/year for members
$271/year for program participants

Summit Information

Bi-weekly program summits are held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Locations will be communicated confirmed in advance of each session. 


2025-26 Summit Dates
September 20
October 4
October 18
November 1
November 15
December 6
December 13
January 17
February 7
February 21
March 7
March 21
March 30 - April 2 - Annual College Tour
April 18
May 2
May 16 -  Annual Celebration

Branch Clubs

For more information about branch clubs, contact Regina Basnight.

Annual College Tour

We'll have more information about our annual college tour soon.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Adult Achievers are key to the program's success and growth. These volunteers serve 12 hours per month as committee members, cluster leaders and/ or role models.  For more information, contact Regina Basnight. For other YMCA Volunteer Opportunities, visit this link.

DONATE

The Lightner Y Achievers program is funded through the YMCA's Annual Campaign. Please consider a donation.

CONTACT

For more information about Lightner Y Achievers, contact Regina Basnight.