YMCA of the Triangle

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FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
FOR HEALTHY LIVING
FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

Lightner Y Achievers

Generating A Spark

Lightner Y Achievers is truly an experience everyone should soak up. It's a program that helps teens understand and learn who they are at critical times in their lives. 

The best part of the program? It's a safe haven, a blessing and at the end, teens feel good about who they and everything they can accomplish in life.

The Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers program introduces teens in grades 6 - 12 to adults of color who guide them 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. 

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PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

  • Provide role models whose success and knowledge will inspire youth to set and reach their goals
  • Help youth develop individual talents, a positive sense of self and leadership ability
  • Motivate participants to raise academic performance, succeed in school and gain marketable skills.

SPECIAL EVENTS

  • Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers Banquet
  • NCYAG Conference
  • Annual College Tour
  • End-of-Year Celebration

FIRST ROBOTICS PROGRAM

Y Achievers can participate in a STEM FIRST robotics program for grades 6 - 12. The program encourages kids to learn robotics through kits and Legos. Grade-based teams form to design, build and test their robots during the year. Competitions are held and participants may have the opportunity to travel to other competitions. 

2020 COLLEGE TOURS

This year's college tour, held to show high school students area universities and learn more about their higher education options, will include visits to:

The trip is held during Wake County Schools spring break, Sun., April 5 - Fri., April 10. The trip includes bus transportation, hotel lodging, most meals and activities.

Cost: $828 per participant, and financial assistance is available. 

There is more information here, and mandatory meetings for teens and parents are scheduled for March 21. 

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.  Find volunteer opportunities.

DONATE

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

CONTACT

Kendall Harris at 919-719-9622
Kendall.Harris@ymcatriangle.org