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.
PROGRAM PILLARS
The Lightner Y Achievers program is built on 6 Program Pillars
- Academic Success
- College & Career Readiness
- Civic Engagement
- Leadership Development
- Racial Equity
- Healthy Living
SPECIAL EVENTS
- Clarence E. Lightner YMCA Achievers Banquet
- NCYAG Conference
- Annual College Tour
- End-of-Year Celebration
Key Program Dates
Program Summit Information
Program Summits are held from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at William Peace University - 15 East Peace Street, Raleigh, NC 27604 unless otherwise noted
September 22 - 24, 2023 - Family Camp Weekend
October 7, 2023 - Academic Success, College & Career Readiness
October 21, 2023 - Academic Success, College & Career Readiness
November 4, 2023 - Civic Engagement
November 18, 2023 - Civic Engagement
December 2, 2023 - Leadership Development
December 16, 2023 - Holiday Special
January 6, 2024 - Leadership Development
January 20, 2024 - Leadership Development
February 3, 2024 - Racial Equity
February 17, 2024 - Racial Equity
March 2, 2024 - Racial Equity
March 16, 2024 - Healthy Living
March 25 - 29, 2024 - Annual College Tour
April 6, 2024 - Healthy Living
April 20, 2024 - Healthy Living
May 4, 2024 - Healthy Living
May 18, 2024 - End of Year Celebration
Pilot Programs
New for the 2023 - 2024 program year, we will be launching two new branch-based Achievers at the Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA and Alexander Family YMCA. These clubs will primarily meet locally at their branches, with opportunities throughout the year to also take part in the Saturday Summits at the YMCA corporate offices (transportation provided).
Contact the local directors for additional information about these programs:
Isaiah Foster, Alexander Family YMCA
Mike Brown, Chapel Hill - Carrboro YMCA
*Weekly Chapel Hill meetings are scheduled for Thursdays, 6:40 - 8 p.m., beginning Oct. 2023.
Alexander Achievers Registration
Chapel Hill Achievers Registration
Annual College Tour
The College Tour will be March 25 - 29, 2024. During this time, students visit Colleges and Universities in the Southern U.S. The tour focuses on learning about each college and allowing students to meet staff, learn more about schools and gather information for post-graduation decisions.
Fee: $850 per Y Acheiver
STAY CONNECTED WITH US
Want to keep up with everything we're doing and learn about volunteer opportunities? Visit the link below to stay in contact with us!
Connect with Lightner Y Achievers
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
For more information about Lightner Y Achievers, contact Jasmine Gilchrist, Program Director or call 919-719-9622.