Page 5 - 2024 YMCA of the Suncoast Annual Report

Mason S. learned invaluable business skills
thanks to the YMCA’s Before and After School Care
program at Tarpon Springs Middle School. He has
been running his successful t-shirt-making business
for the last three years.
“I learned communication skills by talking to
people about selling my shirts. I also learned about
budgeting and marketing skills,” shares Mason, who
is in the 8th grade.
Students wrote detailed business plans, including
budgets and marketing strategies and created
products to sell. The program culminates in a
business day where parents, school staff and
community members come to shop. This experience
teaches students essential skills, including critical
thinking, teamwork, financial literacy and creativity.
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Young entrepreneur Mason sets up his t-shirt shop during
YMCA’s Before and After School Care program.
Our youth development programs focus on nurturing
the potential of young people by fostering a safe
and supportive environment. These programs
promote physical health, drowning prevention,
help eliminate the academic achievement gap and
promote emotional well-being through activities
such as sports, leadership training and community
service.
By encouraging teamwork, responsibility and self-
confidence, participants gain essential life skills.
The YMCA provides opportunities for youth to grow
personally and socially, forming lasting friendships
and building resilience. These programs also offer
a space for young people to explore their interests
and passions, preparing them for future success in
education, career and life.
OUR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY | 4