YMCA Houston Prepares to Serve 8,000 Local Youth This Fall

HOUSTON, TX -- The YMCA of Greater Houston is ready to kick off the new school year with exciting fall programming. By offering a wide variety of after school programs and learning opportunities, the Y will continue to be a place of purpose, serving over 8,000 youth throughout the school year. The YMCA After School Care program engages students in meaningful learning opportunities, promotes health and wellness, supports academic achievement and fosters positive social and emotional development. Some popular programs include youth sports, childcare and camps, health programs, enrichment programs and more. The Y instills confidence within Houston’s youth to achieve their dreams and creates a sense of belonging in a welcoming environment. Through its innovative programming, the YMCA of Greater Houston aims to spark lasting change in youth and provide high-quality development opportunities.

“A well-designed After School Care program can positively impact the lives of our youth, expose them to new interests and help give parents peace of mind while at work,” said Larry Taylor, Executive Director of Youth Development. “The YMCA’s programs invite kids to not only fall in love with learning activities, but also nurtures a sense belonging and confidence to help develop strong relationships with others in the community.”

YMCA fall programming highlights include:

• After School Childcare – The YMCA of Greater Houston provides After School Care for children ages 5 – 12 at more than 200 sites across Houston in over 20 school districts and charter schools including Katy, Humble, Conroe and Houston ISDs. The care offered goes beyond after-school activities and is convenient for working families. Students can work on their daily homework, participate in self-guided academic learning centers, explore age-appropriate structured enrichment programs and engage in Y Community Time. These activities expose students to new experiences through music and art, global awareness and service learning as well as exercises to promote inclusion, empathy and critical thinking. Through these activities, youth are better prepared for their futures with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. Financial aid is available for after school programs. Please contact your local YMCA for more information.

• Youth Sports – The YMCA offers youth sports such as basketball, flag football, soccer, baseball, volleyball and more. The Y provides classes for kids ages 3-13, starting with the Tiny Tots program for ages 3-5. Youth sports at the Y allow children to reach their full potential and create a healthy outlet to gain new skills.

• Adaptive Programs & Miracle League – The YMCA takes great pride in being a safe space for individuals of all abilities. Adaptive programs provide children and adults with disabilities the chance to play sports and participate in learning opportunities in a safe, fun atmosphere. Seasonal adaptive programs include basketball, kickball, swimming and soccer. Additionally, the YMCA, in partnership with The Miracle League, provides a chance to experience the joys and benefits that come from playing baseball. This year, the Miracle League games begin Saturday, Sept. 17 for individuals ages 4 and up.

• YMCA Community Initiatives – Welcome Week at the Y celebrates the growing movement of communities that fully embrace newcomer immigrants and their contributions to the social fabric of our country. This September, YMCAs across Houston are planning activities to help immigrant and U.S. born neighbors connect and celebrate what unites us as a community. For more information on what Welcome Week activities are happening near you, please contact your local YMCA.

Safety is a top priority at each YMCA location, and the welfare of youth and adults resides at the forefront of the organization’s programming. All sites are licensed by the Department of Family & Protective Services. All YMCA staff members undergo background checks and drug tests before employment as well as learning and practicing Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) regularly to ensure a safe and secure environment for their members, guests and employees. Training drills include fire, disturbance, hostile, medical, missing person, weather, utilities, vehicle and wildlife.


To learn more about the YMCA’s After School program, fall activities and membership information, please visit www.ymcahouston.org.