This issue we spoke with, Andrew page, the president and CEO of the Grand Traverse Bay YMCA about youth programming.
What key youth programming strategies have been most successful at your YMCA?
AP: Consistency in offerings is extremely important. Times, costs, descriptions and objectives are all elements that contribute to programming impact. Investing in staff managing these programs is also a strategy we work hard to deliver. Effective recruitment, retention, recognition and rewards afford us the best opportunity to keep our strongest staff not only with youth programming, but throughout our association. The concept of progression where applicable is instrumental as well. Children who experience the opportunity to participate in the next level can be a very motivating factor to continue in those programs. Finally, having an effective and consistent feedback process from parents, children and staff alike is an extremely effective resource to improve programming year after year.
What’s been the biggest challenge with creating offerings for children?
AP: While traditional athletic offerings are most easily understood, the challenge of implementing non-athletic opportunities can sometimes be difficult to market. While something like a soccer league is universally understood, how do we promote the interest and understanding of programs like Music Together, Books and Crafts, or other unique options? The effort to provide more and more offerings for youth who may not be interested in individual or team sports is a process of experimentation and evolution.
Detail one specific youth programming option that’s been well received at your YMCA.
AP: Our 10-week summer day camp program has been extremely well-received in our community. We’ve sold our camp out in a few short hours after registration began in the last three years. We believe this is due to three primary factors: strong camp counselor training and retention, creative and meaningful curriculums that include summer learning loss strategies, and competitive pricing and duration of the camp. While other camps in the area may only provide six, seven or eight weeks, our 10-week session allows parents and guardians the time they need to work throughout the summer months.
What advice do you have for ensuring a youth program is successful?
AP: Invest in your team. Often seasonal or part-time staff may be overlooked. They not only enrich the lives of the youth they work with, but also provide valued programs that can dramatically impact a Y’s overall membership retention. Be creative in your offerings and give those unique programs a fighting chance. If enrollment is down, don’t give up. Market, tweak and give it more oxygen. If you believe in an idea, fight for it as long as you can. Finally, word of mouth is the very best form of exposure. Enlist your participants and staff for feedback, and strive to improve each year. Satisfaction is the poison of progress. Always seek to find the next level because it’s out there.
