As the YMCA Teen Achievers Program continues to grow and thrive, a record-breaking 10 students received onsite admission during the Achievers’ 2017 Spring College Tour and eight received scholarship awards totaling $152,000.
Now in its 27th year, Y Teen Achievers provides the extra mentoring and academic support that many youths need to make smart decisions and pursue their college and career dreams.
The program’s annual college tours cap off a year of job shadowing, tutoring, college readiness sessions, and community service projects that prepare youth to graduate from high school and continue on a successful lifelong journey. During the tour, students visit college campuses throughout the Southeast where they explore academic options and requirements, sample college life, and meet with admission counselors.
In all, 63 ninth graders through twelfth graders participated in the 2017 tour, which visited Florida A&M University, the University of North Florida, Winston-Salem University, North Carolina Central University, Greensboro College, Bennett College, North Carolina A&T University and The Citadel Military University.
Since 1990, nearly 13,000 youth have completed the Teen Achievers Program. Ninety percent have graduated from high school and gone on to earn college admission, career certifications, or join the military.
With the ultimate goal of preparing youth for life beyond high school, the Y Teen Achievers program is built on five pillars: Academics, College Knowledge, Positive Relationships, Life Skills, and Positive Identity. It is one of a portfolio of YMCA Youth Development Programs that support children's and teens’ healthy development from cradle to career.
Central to the program’s success is strong participation by volunteer role models and mentors. Many are former Teen Achievers who have gone on to professional success and realize the importance of giving back.