As students across Chester County, Pennsylvania, head back to school, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine is inviting seventh graders across the county to join the Y at no cost through its 7th Grade Initiative. The initiative reflects the organization’s commitment to helping teens build confidence, find belonging and discover their potential during a pivotal stage of development.
The 7th Grade Initiative provides eligible students with a complimentary YMCA youth membership during their seventh-grade year and the summer immediately following.
The complimentary membership supports the growing independence of seventh graders, giving them the freedom to make their Y experience their own. Participants can access Y facilities across Chester County and explore opportunities that match their interests, from swimming and fitness to sports, creative pursuits and STEM.
“Seventh grade is an important milestone in teen development,” said Bertram L. Lawson II, the president and CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, in a press release. “The transition into adolescence brings significant changes for young people. As teens discover new interests and begin to make their own decisions about how to spend their time, we want them to know that the Y is a place where they belong – a place where they can build healthy habits, develop confidence, form meaningful relationships and explore their potential.”
Further Details
With reduced rates on select programs, the initiative also gives young people the chance to try something new, develop skills and connect with others in an environment where they can feel comfortable being themselves.
While free access to Y facilities is a valuable benefit, the initiative is designed to provide much more than a place to swim or work out.
Through the program, YMCA of Greater Brandywine seeks to remove cost as a barrier and ensure local youth have access to a safe, supportive environment during this important stage of development. More than 1,200 seventh graders participate in the initiative each year. For many participants, the complimentary membership serves as a gateway to deeper engagement with Y programs designed specifically for teens.
Creating Pathways for Teens to Thrive
The 7th Grade Initiative is one part of the Y’s growing focus on teen development.
Across Chester County, YMCA of Greater Brandywine offers a growing range of opportunities designed to help teens explore their interests, build leadership skills, support their well-being and prepare for their futures. Programs include Y Achievers, Y After Dark, VolunTEEN opportunities, and Youth and Government, along with teen sports, fitness and employment opportunities.
The Y’s teen programs provide a balance of structure and guidance, with trusted adults creating opportunities for teens to build relationships, develop confidence and skills, explore their interests, and discover a greater sense of purpose.
“At the Y, Youth Development means walking alongside young people as they grow,” said Jazmyn Hudson, the senior association director of teen development. “Our goal is to create pathways for youth to find connection, explore who they are and build the skills they need for what comes next. The 7th Grade Initiative can be an important entry point into that journey, helping young people discover the many ways the Y can support their growth, development and future success.”
The 7th Grade Initiative is available to seventh-grade students throughout Chester County. Students are eligible beginning the summer after completing sixth grade and can maintain their complimentary membership through August 31 following completion of seventh grade.
A parent or guardian can enroll their seventh grader online or at a YMCA of Greater Brandywine location.
