The YMCA provides programs for teens that help shape values and encourage life-long community service.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR TEENS AT THE YMCA:
- Learn valuable leadership skills through programs that promote responsibility
- Gain employment. We offer certification courses in lifeguarding and babysitting, and employ teens in wellness, aquatic and member service positions throughout our branches.
- Belong to a safe and caring community. YMCAs give teens a safe place to call their own, a chance to connect with adults who look at them as their peers, and an opportunity to get involved in programs that help them grow as individuals.
BABYSITTING CERTIFICATION
Get the skills you need to be a great babysitter! Become a Red Cross certified babysitter. Learn decision-making skills, basic first aid and safety, ideas for age appropriate play, and basic care skills. For youth ages 11-15.
Session Dates:
- September 25 & 26: 6-9:00 p.m. & 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
- October 24: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
- November 28 & 29: 6-9:00 p.m. & 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
- December 26: 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Visit our Certification Programs Page for more information.
YOUTH FITNESS
This is required of all youth ages 11-14 years old that are interested in using the wellness center (cardio and strength equipment) and attend aerobic studio classes.
Certifications are offered in May
Day
Saturday
Tuesday/Thursday
Wednesday/Friday
Wednesday/Friday |
Date
5/2 & 5/9
5/5 & 5/7
5/13 & 5/15
5/20 & 5/22 |
Time
8-10 a.m.
4-6 p.m.
7-9 p.m.
4-6 p.m. |
Visit our Certification Programs Page for more information.
LEADERS CLUB
The YMCA Leaders Club provides teens ages 13-18 with knowledge, training, communication skills, and valuable team-building experiences through volunteering in YMCA programs and the community. YMCA Leaders Club trains teens to better serve their community and YMCA as they encourage each other to make a positive impact for present and future generations. Qualifying leaders may participate in Blue Ridge Leaders School, a week-long school held in June with a main focus on fitness and leadership development.
Please click on the Flyer or Leaders Guide for more information. Remember interest letters and Application Forms must be sent in by August 1st, 2010 to be considered for the 2010-2011 Leaders club.
TEENS IN ACTION CLUB
The mission of the Teens in Action Service Club (ages 11- 16 or 13-17) is to provide volunteer and social opportunities for teens in the YMCA while developing leadership skills in a positive atmosphere that fosters a sense of belonging and encouragement. Teens may be required to attend a volunteer workshop prior to volunteering and club members are asked to participate in essential monthly meetings. Interested teens may join the club at any time during the year. Please click Teens in Action flyer for more information. All interested participants should complete the Application and submit to Jason Christianson.
TEEN EXTREME CAMP
Rising 7th - 10th Graders
This adventure camp is designed to keep teens active and engaged in a variety of activities throughout the summer. At camp, teens build friendships while developing interpersonal and leadership skills. The teen camp staff focuses on encouraging team work and the growth of the core values of honesty, respect, and caring in an atmosphere where teens feel safe, valued and free to express themselves. Participants are given the opportunity to experience local activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, tubing, hiking, bowling and Putt-Putt golfing as well as swimming, sports and the low ropes course. Early registration is strongly recommended due to space limitations. Visit our Summer Day Camps Page for more information.
MODEL GENERAL ASSEMBLY
The Youth & Government program is a High School age “Hands-on” experience to introduce students to the legislative process of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Youth senators and delegates have the opportunity to debate legislation in committees and on the floor of the Senate and House of Delegates while other selected students serve as officers, executive representatives, pages, reporters, and lobbyists. Youth & Government is a sound educational program that increases awareness of the governmental process and develops skills in the areas of personal development, self esteem and leadership. The highlight of the program is a 3-day trip to the Downtown Richmond Marriott, where the students will present and debate Bills at the Capitol.
Meeting will start in October, 2011 at the Midlothian YMCA, where students will amend or draft their own bill. Throughout the next few months, participants will research and debate the bill topic. Contact Jason Christiansen at christiansenj@ymcarichmond.org for more information or visit www.vaymca.org for program information.
UPCOMING EVENTS
New in Summer 2010! Teen Yoga Series
July 10th-August 7th Saturday's 4:00pm-5:00pm Ages 11-14years old Co-ed
Enhance flexibility, strength and stamina while calming the mind and releasing stress.
Cost: Facility Member $30
Community Member $40
Teen Advisory Board
An established Program Council (community leaders, members, teens, and parents) will meet monthly to develop measurable objectives and outcomes that clarify how we are to serve teens in the Midlothian community. New members will be accepted in the fall of 2011.
Middle School Maddness
Middle School Madness is an event open to the community at the Midlothian Family YMCA full of fun and games in the gym, pool, and Teen Center. Join us for music, 3-on-3 basketball, video games, and fun in the pool or just hanging out with your friends! There will be drinks and pizza for purchase. This supervised program is also a great place to meet new friends. Participants will enjoy the following activities:
- Basketball
- Swimming
- Movies
- Billiards
- Social interaction with other teens
Coming in the fall of 2010: TEEN ACHIEVERS
The program's objectives are:
- To help youth ages 11 and up to develop a positive sense of self
- To raise the academic standards of youth
- To expose students to diverse career options
- To provide positive role models for youth
- To recognize and promote excellence
- To create channels for continuing community involvement for business and industry
The program's benefits are:
- Youth are motivated to succeed in school and gain marketable skills.
- Adults are recognized by their peers as achievers and are given the opportunity to serve as role models for youth.
- Companies are provided with a way to support urban youth, which enhances their corporate image and helps build a future workforce of competent, motivated young adults.
- YMCAs that sponsor Teen Achievers gain corporate support for its programs and a dynamic way to involve professionals in meeting community needs as YMCA volunteers.