Through Y-Achievers, Leaders Club, and Youth & Government, local teens are building leadership skills, exploring career pathways, and making a difference in their community.
The YMCA of Greenwich is inviting local professionals,
families, and community members to help shape the next generation of leaders through its expanding teen leadership programs. With new volunteer opportunities available through Y-Achievers and the upcoming Lawn Care Heroes community service initiative, the Y is creating meaningful ways for residents to share their skills, give back, and make a lasting impact on local youth.
The YMCA’s teen programs go beyond traditional extracurricular activities, providing young people with opportunities to develop confidence, discover their interests, build professional connections, and become active contributors to their communities.
CONNECTING TEENS WITH LOCAL PROFESSIONALS THROUGH Y-ACHIEVERS
The YMCA’s Y-Achievers Program helps high school students in grades 9–12 prepare for college, careers, and life beyond graduation. Through career exploration, mentorship, college visits, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities, students gain valuable exposure to professional pathways and develop skills that support their future success.
A key component of the program is its Career Clusters initiative, which connects students directly with professionals working in fields such as nonprofit and public service, business and entrepreneurship, biomedical sciences, public health, and artificial intelligence.
The YMCA is currently seeking professionals from Greenwich and surrounding communities to volunteer in several capacities, including:
• Career Cluster Leaders: Guide students through a series of four meetings exploring a specific industry, career opportunities, and professional skills.
• Industry Professional Panelists: Share career experiences, answer student questions, and provide insight into different professions.
• Saturday Workshop Presenters: Lead interactive workshops on topics including financial literacy, emotional intelligence, communication, employment readiness, and college preparation.
• Special Event Volunteers: Help students develop practical skills through mock interviews, resume writing assistance, and professional networking events.
Volunteer opportunities vary in time commitment, allowing professionals to participate in a single event or take on a more ongoing mentorship role. No previous teaching or mentoring experience is required.
“Our community is filled with talented professionals whose knowledge and experiences can open doors for young people,” said Kelley Gordon-Minott, Director of Teen Programming at the YMCA of Greenwich. “By connecting students with these individuals, we’re helping them discover opportunities, build confidence, and envision futures they may not have otherwise considered.”
TEENS GIVING BACK THROUGH LAWN CARE HEROES
While Y-Achievers focuses on preparing teens for their futures, the YMCA’s Leaders Club encourages young people to put their leadership skills into action through community service.
This November, the YMCA will bring together teen leaders, families, staff, and community volunteers for Lawn Care Heroes, a hands-on service initiative supporting local seniors and individuals with disabilities or physical limitations who may need assistance maintaining their yards.
On Saturday, November 7, from 9:30am to 2:00pm, volunteer teams will visit participating households to rake leaves, clear debris, and assist with general yard cleanup.
The initiative provides an opportunity for teens to develop teamwork, responsibility, and empathy while making a tangible difference in the lives of their neighbors.
Community volunteers ages 13 and older are welcome to participate, with volunteers ages 13–15 accompanied by an adult. No previous experience is necessary, and supplies will be
provided.
Beyond the practical assistance provided to residents, Lawn Care Heroes reflects the YMCA’s commitment to bringing generations together and fostering a stronger, more connected Greenwich community.
BUILDING TOMORROW’ LEADERS THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Y-Achievers and Leaders Club are part of the YMCA of Greenwich’s broader commitment to developing confident, engaged, and community-minded young people.
Through Youth & Government, middle school students in grades 6–8 explore civic engagement, research issues that matter to them, develop public speaking skills, and participate in the democratic process. Students have opportunities to write and debate legislation, collaborate with peers, and experience government firsthand through a
statewide conference at the Connecticut State Capitol.
Meanwhile, Leaders Club empowers teens to develop leadership skills through volunteer
service, teamwork, and community engagement, encouraging them to take an active role in addressing local needs.
Together, these programs create opportunities for young people to grow as leaders, strengthen their connections to the community, and develop skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
COMMUNITY VOLUNTEERS MAKE IT POSSIBLE
The YMCA of Greenwich recognizes that meaningful youth development requires the support of the entire community. By connecting teens with professionals, mentors, and service opportunities, the Y helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experiences.
Whether sharing professional expertise, helping a student prepare for a job interview, or spending a Saturday assisting a neighbor, community members have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.
The YMCA is encouraging residents, local businesses, and community organizations to get involved.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities and register to participate, visit:
• Y-Achievers Volunteer Registration:
https://form.jotform.com/262583776221058
• Lawn Care Heroes Volunteer Registration:
https://greenwichymca.volunteermatters.org/project-catalog/52
• Teen Leadership Programs:
https://greenwichymca.org/programs/youth/leadership
The YMCA of Greenwich is one of the largest community-based organizations in Greenwich, CT. Founded in 1916, the YMCA of Greenwich offers programs and services that promote and sustain healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility to nurture the potential of everyone in our community. Our YMCA is a membership organization open to all people. The YMCA welcomes people of all genders, ages, races, ethnicities, religions, abilities and financial circumstances. With our “Y For All Membership” program, your rates are based on total household income and circumstance. To learn more about the YMCA of Greenwich, visit: www.greenwichymca.org.