For over a year, the YMCA of South Hampton Roads located in Norfolk, Virginia, has used Founders Mark to provide young learners with dynamic learning experiences that empower them to unleash fearlessness and become owners in all aspects of their lives. The results of the partnership have been beneficial to the Y’s operations.
“If you are looking for a way to engage youth, Founders Mark is the company you are looking for,” said Jamie Childress, the vice president of youth development at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads. “It’s a vehicle for us to engage youth and instill the YMCA core values of respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.”
Below, Childress details the collaboration, benefits to members, surprises along the way and more.
Why did you decide to partner with Founders Mark? What problem were you looking to solve; or what solution were you looking to incorporate?
What motivated me to partner with Founders Mark was the ability to leverage their programs to teach kids how to provide for themselves in a climate where everything is taken care of for them. The program helps us break the cycle of dependence and empowers youth to create their own future.
What are the benefits to your members as a result of this partnership?
Parents are happy their kids are passionate about the program. One parent told me “it’s as if a lightbulb went off and suddenly there was motivation I hadn’t seen before” when describing her experience.
Have you been pleasantly surprised by working with Founders Mark in any way?
Yes, the whole team has been wonderful to work with.
