Organization prepares to be a local destination for fall activities serving thousands of Houstonians throughout fall 2023
The YMCA of Greater Houston is ready to kick off the fall season with exciting programming for youth, adults and seniors throughout the city. By offering a wide variety of programs and learning opportunities, the Y will continue to be a place of purpose, serving over 5,000 youth daily throughout the school year in their After School Child Care program alone. In the coming months, the YMCA will further nurture relationships within the community through ForeverWell programs to help seniors build connections while remaining active as well as connecting newcomers with their neighbors through a week-long welcoming celebration. Through its vast range of innovative programming, the YMCA of Greater Houston aims to empower youth, provide high-quality development opportunities and help Houstonians build lasting relationships. In support of the YMCA’s 10-year vision and strategic plan, local activities this fall will work to position the community organization for long term sustainability and impact, while preparing for growth and becoming more accessible and inclusive.
YMCA fall programming highlights include:
- After School Care – The YMCA of Greater Houston provides After School Care for children ages 5 – 12 at approximately 180 sites across Houston in over 20 school districts and charter schools including Katy, Humble, Conroe and Houston ISDs. The YMCA After School Care program engages students in meaningful learning opportunities, promotes health and wellness, supports academic achievement and fosters positive social and emotional development. Students can work on their daily homework, participate in self-guided academic learning centers, explore age-appropriate structured enrichment programs and engage in Y Community Time. These activities expose students to new experiences through music and art, global awareness and service learning as well as exercises to promote inclusion, empathy and critical thinking. Financial aid is available for after school programs.
- Youth Sports– The YMCA offers youth sports such as basketball, flag football, soccer, baseball, volleyball and more. The Y provides classes for kids ages 3-13, starting with the Tiny Tots program for ages 3-5. Youth sports at the Y allow children to reach their full potential and create a healthy outlet to gain new skills.
- Adaptive Programs & Miracle League –The YMCA is a safe space for individuals of all ages and abilities. Adaptive programs provide children and adults with disabilities the chance to play sports and participate in learning opportunities in a safe, fun atmosphere. Seasonal adaptive programs include basketball, swimming and soccer. Additionally, the YMCA, in partnership with The Miracle League, provides a chance for individuals to experience the joys and benefits of playing baseball. This year, the Miracle League games begin Saturday, Sept. 16 for individuals ages 4 and up.
- Welcoming Week –Welcoming Week at the Y celebrates the growing movement of communities that fully embrace newcomer immigrants and their contributions to the social fabric of our country. Friday, Sept. 8 – Sunday, Sept. 17, YMCAs across Houston are planning activities to help immigrant and local neighbors connect and celebrate what unites us as a community. In alignment with the YMCA’s commitment to address critical social issues, Welcoming Week strives to build bridges between communities and advance inclusion and belonging for all. Houstonians can learn more about Welcoming Week activities by contacting their local YMCA.
- ForeverWell Programs – Designed for members ages 55 and up, ForeverWell offers a variety of opportunities for adults to stay active, engaged and connected with others.
- The YMCA is hosting a Senior Open Houseon Wednesday, Sept. 20 at various centers across Houston as a celebration of the organization’s senior adults and showcase of ForeverWell programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of activities to learn more about ForeverWell social gatherings and fitness services, including entering to win a raffle prize or jumping in for a game of Pickleball. Please contact your local YMCA for more information as activities and times vary by location.
- Additionally, the Y kicks off their annual Be a Kid Again Day at Camp Cullen onThursday, Oct. 12 and Friday, Oct. 13. YMCA senior members and non-members are invited to join for a day of fun, learning, and engagement, participating in traditional camp activities or relaxing and recharging at YMCA Camp Cullen on the picturesque shores of Lake Livingston.
“The YMCA is ready and excited to bring fall programming, including adaptive sports, connection opportunities and more, to local individuals and families across Houston,” said Stephen Ives, president and CEO, YMCA of Greater Houston. “YMCA activities bring opportunity to support social and emotional development for both children and adults, providing a safe and supportive environment positioned to build healthier families and nurture strong relationships within the community.”
Safety is a top priority at each YMCA location, and the welfare of youth and adults resides at the forefront of the organization’s programming. All child care sites are licensed by the Department of Family & Protective Services. All YMCA staff members undergo background checks and drug tests before employment as well as learning and practicing Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) regularly to ensure a safe and secure environment for their members, guests and employees. Training drills include fire, disturbance, hostile, medical, missing person, weather, utilities, vehicle and wildlife.
To learn more about the YMCA’s fall activities and After School Care, please visit www.ymcahouston.org