Teen Programs

The teen years are a critically important time for youth to receive support from trained professionals and positive role models, to help them best understand their options for the future.

In accordance with our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Vision Statement, the YMCA of NWNC will improve the well-being of Boys and Young Men of Color through intentional Youth Development programming with a focus on inspiring and transforming lives and setting the pathway for successful adulthood within the communities we serve. 

The Y is filled with passionate dreamers, thinkers and doers. Here, everyone is a leader. Whether a camp counselor, lifeguard or fitness instructor, we all share a common goal to serve and make our community better.

We have a wide variety of career options depending on your individual goals. There is always room for advancement. We invite you to join us in this amazing work—to develop your skills, to realize your leadership potential, and to discover a career that is so much more than a job. Thank you for your interest in joining our mission.

In 2022, we piloted a new Teen Referral Membership initiative — REACHING OUR POTENTIAL. This new initiative will offer young people ages 11-18 years old (middle and high school students) in our communities a free membership to access the Y’s fitness facilities, group exercise classes, basketball courts, swimming pools, and so much more. Students must be referred by their guidance counselor, a YMCA staff member, or a community partner, certain eligible requirements needed.

Teen Talks are open to all middle and high school students in YMCA of NWNC programs, the public, and our community partners who work with middle and high school students. The YMCA of Northwest of North Carolina will host teen talks throughout the year in partnership with community organizations.

Youth & Government is a high school age “hands-on” leadership experience in State Government. Our goal is to empower teens to learn how to make an impact on their community.