Page 4 - YMCA of the Suncoast Annual Report 2022

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
GROWING
THE NEXT GENERATION
The Y believes every child deserves the opportunity to thrive. We
provide supportive environments, positive experiences, guidance and encouragement, so children can confidently be who they are and fearlessly strive to become whomever they want to be.
With programs like sports, swim team, Teen Leaders, school break, summer camp and more, the YMCA of the Suncoast provides opportunities for youth to cultivate values,
skills and relationships that
lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. We are committed to programs that inspire children to feel a sense of belonging and achievement in all they do.
Creating opportunities that support Academic Success in the communities we serve is a key focus area of the Y’s youth development work. To close the achievement gap between children from lower-income
households and their middle/ upper-income peers, the Y provides educational guidance, encouragement and support for children – from early learning to post-secondary education. Working with caregivers, students and schools we offer evidence-based programs that improve students’ educational readiness, engagement and outcomes, while helping
them grow emotionally and physically, too.
3
YMCAOFTHESUNCOAST | ANNUALREPORT2022