Today’s Achievers are Tomorrow’s Leaders
The Achievers program helps youth in middle and high school realize their full potential through mentorship and meaningful experiences that unlock a world of possibilities for teens across the community. With the support of volunteers and corporate champions, we meet teens wherever they are – schools, YMCA family centers, community organizations, and home – to deliver this transformational program.
- Academic Support
- Mentorship
- College and Career Readiness
- Community Involvement
- Leadership
Why Achievers
Our Teens Need Us Now More than Ever.
Today’s teens face unique challenges—from navigating mental health pressures to preparing for an evolving workforce. The Achievers program meets these needs by providing mentorship, life skills, and career readiness support that empowers youth to thrive.
Mentorship Transform Lives
Mentorship continues to transform the lives of youth and teens across the nation, with research finding that youth with mentors are 55% more likely to enroll in college.
Fostering Confidence and Life Skills
Life skills training programs have been found to increase self-esteem and decrease anxiety levels in students, equipping them with better coping mechanisms.
Increased Access to Opportunities
Teens across the community receive life-changing experiences, including the annual college and career fair, spring break college tour, job shadowing opportunities, and service learning.
Building Healthier Communities
Investing in our youth contributes to long-term societal gains, including improving educational outcomes, reducing crime rates, and enhancing workforce readiness. These programs play a crucial role in building healthier, more resilient communities for everyone.
Help to Empower the Next Generation!
Teens today face more challenges than ever—and they need consistent support, positive role models, and meaningful opportunities to thrive. Through the Achievers Program, you can help shape the future. Here’s how you can get involved:
Inspire and guide a young person by helping them set goals, build confidence, and navigate life’s challenges.
Share your knowledge in areas like financial literacy, leadership, communication, and personal development to support teens thriving in adulthood.
Offer real-world insight into high-demand industries such as entrepreneurship, law and criminal justice, education and technology, healthcare, and the creative arts.
Volunteer at milestone moments throughout the year, including the annual spring break college tour and other impactful experiences.
Teens Only
Register for the Achievers Program
To participate in the YMCA Achievers Program, students must:
•Be a current student at Evans High School
•Be in grades 9–12
•Demonstrate a commitment to academic achievement and personal growth
•Attend weekly or biweekly program sessions during or after school hours
•Participate in program events such as workshops, mentoring sessions, service projects, and the college tour
•Complete a student interest form and attend an orientation prior to enrollment
•Maintain respectful behavior and consistent engagement throughout the program year
35 Years of Achievement Celebrating a Community Legacy
With more than 13,000 alumni across Central Florida, the YMCA Achievers Program has built a legacy of impact.
Our program alumni are making their mark in diverse sectors — from education and healthcare to business and public service, thanks to the dedication of community partners, adult achievers, and corporate champions. Whether mentoring the next generation, launching innovative ventures, or driving positive change in their neighborhoods, our alumni embody what it means to lead with purpose. Take a peek at the history and legacy of Achievers below.
Celebrating the Legacy Igniting the Future
Whether you’re an alum, supporter, mentor, or community partner, there are many meaningful ways to connect:
Become a founding member of the Legacy Link—a network of alumni and supporters dedicated to uplifting the next generation. Members receive exclusive updates, special recognition, and opportunities to give back.
Were you impacted by Achievers? Your journey matters. Share how the program shaped your path and inspire future participants.
Save the date! We’re celebrating this fall with a weekend of connection, reflection, and inspiration. Join us for special events honoring the past and investing in what’s ahead.
Sign up for the Achievers Anniversary newsletter and get the latest news, event details, and alumni highlights straight to your inbox.
For more information or to take advantage of any of the above opportunities, reach out to Roderica Johnson for more details!
Our Commitment to Child Safety
Your child’s safety is our priority. Find out more about our commitment to keeping kids safe.
Youth Sports
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