Page 4 - 2023 Tampa YMCA Annual Report

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
WE DEVELOP
We believe all kids deserve the support, guidance and encouragement to be who they are and discover what they can achieve. This is why the Tampa Y provides opportunities for thousands of youth to cultivate the values, skills and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement. We are committed to long-term, results-driven programs that address the achievement gap.
We know all children and teens have potential. However, research shows that many kids from underserved and low-income families need extra support to reach that potential. They often start Kindergarten unprepared and fall behind their peers as they move through school. This gap changes the fabric of our communities – these kids are more likely to become teen parents, engage in criminal activities, suffer from mental health issues and are more likely to be unemployed or underemployed. The Y’s goal is to catch these students up, provide them with academic assistance after school and over the summer, when they typically fall further behind than their peers.
The activities offered by the Tampa Y enable a child to set goals, work toward achieving those goals, and get the support they need from engaged, committed adults. The Y believes that a confident kid today creates a contributing and engaged adult tomorrow.
OUR MISSION
IN ACTION
“There are many
reasons why the Y is
special for me. First,
I feel that I belong
and have made many
friends. Also, I get to play basketball, my favorite sport! My coaches have taught me the importance of practice to improve my skills and hopefully win the game. Another reason the Y is special to me is because I have learned how to be a good team player and look out for my teammates if they get hurt. Lastly, during summer camp, I finally learned to swim, an important skill to have.”
- Xavier Nelson, 7 – East Pasco Y.
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TAMPA METROPOLITAN AERA YMCA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 | BUILDING COMMUNITY