Studies show participation in before and after school as well as summer programs where kids and teens receive healthy meals and experience music and fine art programs helps boost school attendance, behavior and academic performance and reduces gaps in academic achievement among children from underserved communities.
“Healthy meals and enrichment activities are proven to help young people thrive, but those in underserved communities might not always have access or opportunities to participate,” YGTC Executive Director Matt Kjorstad said in a press release. “Together with schools, community partners and families, the Y is dedicated to closing the opportunity gap by feeding kids’ bodies and minds to help them become tomorrow’s community of healthy, responsible adults.”
The YMCA before and after school and summer programs focus on providing youth in low-income communities with academic, social, and lifework development to build confidence, academic skills and healthy habits.
As a nonprofit committed to nurturing the potential of youth, the Y offers financial assistance to those in need to ensure every child and teen has the opportunity to learn and grow. To learn more about the Y’s educational and enrichment programs, visit www.ymcatwincities.org.